Do You Know Your AED Expiry Dates? Why Pad and Battery Management Could Save a Life
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are designed to save lives — but only if they are fully operational when needed. One of the most common reasons AEDs fail in an emergency is expired or compromised consumables, such as electrode pads or batteries.
So, do you know your AED’s expiry dates?
In this guide, we explain AED lifecycle management, when pads and batteries should be replaced, and how connected technology can help you stay compliant and ready at all times.
Understanding the AED Lifecycle
While AEDs are built for durability, they are not designed to last indefinitely.
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8 years is the commonly advised lifecycle for an AED
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Replacement is at customer discretion, based on condition, usage, and compliance requirements
For organisations managing multiple devices — such as hospitals, clinics, workplaces, and public venues — monitoring lifecycle status is critical for patient safety and regulatory confidence.
When Should AED Pads Be Replaced?
AED electrode pads are single-use medical consumables and must be replaced under several circumstances — even if they appear undamaged.
Replace AED Pads:
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After every use
Even if the pads look intact, once used they must be replaced. -
If the packaging is damaged or opened
Pads must remain sealed to stay effective. -
When the expiry date is approaching or has passed
Smart AEDs will detect expired electrodes during routine self-tests. -
When the 2-year manufacturer warranty has expired
Replacement is recommended at customer discretion.
Failing to replace pads in time can result in the AED being non-functional during an emergency — a risk no organisation can afford.
AED Battery Expiry: What You Need to Know
The AED battery is just as critical as the pads.
SB-310V AED Battery Key Points:
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4-year battery guarantee
After this period, performance and reliability may reduce. -
Replace the battery after every use
CPR delivery and testing both count as battery usage. -
Always act on low-battery warnings
Battery status should be checked after any use. -
Expired batteries are automatically detected
Chipped batteries communicate expiry status to the AED during self-tests.
An expired or weakened battery can prevent shock delivery — even if pads are in date.
How Connected AEDs Reduce Risk and Improve Compliance
Managing AEDs manually across multiple sites is challenging. That’s where connected AED technology makes a measurable difference.
Benefits of Connected AEDs (Cardiolife Connect):
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Automatic alerts 3 months before pad or battery expiry
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Centralised fleet management
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Reduced risk of non-compliance
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Complete peace of mind for facilities teams and clinical leads
Fleet managers receive timely notifications, allowing replacements to be scheduled proactively — not reactively.
Stay Ready. Stay Compliant. Stay Connected.
AED readiness isn’t just about having a device on the wall — it’s about ensuring every component works when it matters most.
By actively managing expiry dates for pads and batteries, and by using connected monitoring solutions, organisations can dramatically reduce risk and improve emergency preparedness.
If you’d like support with AED consumables, lifecycle planning, or connected AED solutions, MedScience Distribution can help ensure your devices are always ready to perform.
