All Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) have pads and batteries with expiration dates and must be replaced according to the expiration date.
Once an organization or company has equipped themselves with an automated external defibrillator (AED), it is imperative that inspections are performed on a monthly basis. Not only are monthly inspections a prerequisite for the Good Samaritan law, but it also reminds the organization when the pads and batteries expire.
Below are some commonly asked questions regarding replacement parts.
Why do my AED electrode pads expire?
Once an organization or company has equipped themselves with an automated external defibrillator (AED), it is imperative that inspections are performed on a monthly basis. Not only are monthly inspections a prerequisite for the Good Samaritan law, but it also reminds the organization when the pads and batteries expire.
Below are some commonly asked questions regarding replacement parts.
Why do my AED electrode pads expire?
AED electrode pads are comprised of an adhesive gel and tin. Once they exceed their expiration date, they may not be able to function properly or will lose their ability to “stick” to a victim. Manufacturers cannot guarantee that the pads will function past their expiration date. Just like a band aid, AED electrode pads tend to dry out faster once exposed to air.
When do my pads expire?
AED pads expire typically every two years. Manufacturers such as HeartSine and Zoll use a different formula which allows the pads to last longer than two years.
How often will I have to replace my batteries?
Like the electrode pads, each manufacturer has a different expiration date. Battery expiration dates or shelf life can vary anywhere from 2 years to 7 years. The battery shelf life is not a set date and varies manufacturer to manufacturer. The shelf life date can usually be found on the battery. The shelf life date on the battery is NOT the expiration date of the battery in stand-by mode. The expiration date of the battery in stand-by mode begins the day the battery is installed.
Does my AED battery have an expiration date listed on it?
Yes. The expiration date listed on the battery is the shelf-life of the battery. Meaning that the battery must be installed by that date in order to receive the full life of the battery. Cardiac Science lists when the battery was manufactured versus the battery shelf life.
Should I purchase an extra set of pads or battery?
This is not a legal statue or precedent that requires a spare pad be available. However, it is always a good idea to have an extra battery or set of pads, just in case the primary is not functionality proper. Most manufacturers will include a spare set of pads in their initial AED Ship Set.
Contact AED-SHOP.com today to find out more about replacement accessories for your AED or to place an order for your replacement accessories. HeartSafe America's goal is to educate the public about Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) and how AEDs can increase the survival rate.
