Understanding AED Expiry Dates: A Comprehensive Guide to Pads and Batteries for AEDs in Canada

Understanding AED Expiry Dates: A Comprehensive Guide to Pads and Batteries for AEDs in Canada

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are critical tools in the fight against sudden cardiac arrest. These life-saving devices are designed to deliver an electric shock to the heart, restoring its normal rhythm. However, for AEDs to be effective when needed, it's crucial that they are well-maintained, which includes keeping track of the expiry dates for their pads and batteries. This article aims to provide a detailed overview of the expiry dates for pads and batteries across various AED models available in Canada.

Why Expiry Dates Matter

Before diving into specifics, it's important to understand why expiry dates are so critical. AED pads and batteries have finite lifespans. Expired components may not function correctly, which can compromise the effectiveness of the AED during an emergency. Regular maintenance, including timely replacement of pads and batteries, ensures that your AED is always ready for use.

1. Philips AEDs

a. Philips HeartStart OnSite and FRx

• Pads Expiry: Philips recommends replacing the pads every two years. For the HeartStart OnSite and FRx models, the pads typically have a shelf life of around 24 months from the manufacturing date. The pads should be checked periodically, and any expired pads should be replaced immediately to ensure readiness.

• Battery Expiry: The HeartStart OnSite and FRx AEDs use a lithium battery with a lifespan of approximately four years. The battery status can be monitored through the device's indicator lights, but it’s generally advised to replace the battery after four years regardless of its status to avoid unexpected failures.

2. Zoll AEDs

a. Zoll AED Plus

• Pads Expiry: Zoll’s AED Plus pads generally have an expiration period of 5 years. This long shelf life means fewer replacements and is convenient for maintaining AEDs in various locations.

• Battery Expiry: The Zoll AED Plus uses a battery pack with an estimated lifespan of 5 years or 300 shocks. Zoll recommends replacing the battery pack after this period or after the device indicates that the battery needs replacement.

b. Zoll AED 3

• Pads Expiry: The pads for the Zoll AED 3 also have a 5-year shelf life, aligning with the longer period of usability seen in other Zoll devices.

• Battery Expiry: The battery in the Zoll AED 3 typically lasts up to 5 years or 300 shocks. Zoll’s AEDs often come with indicators for battery life, but it's a good practice to replace the battery every 5 years.

3. Stryker - Physio-Control/HeartSine AEDs

a. Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR2

• Pads Expiry: The pads for the LIFEPAK CR2 have a shelf life of about 2 years. The device will usually alert users when the pads are approaching their expiration date.

• Battery Expiry: The LIFEPAK CR2 battery generally needs replacing every 4 years. Regular checks and adherence to the manufacturer’s recommendations are important to ensure the battery is functioning properly.

b. HeartSine - 350P & 360P & 500P

• Pads & Pads Expiry: The pads and batteries come as a package (pad-pak) on the HeartSine AEDs.  They simplifies the tracking.  The pad-paks last for 4 years.

4. Cardiac Science AEDs

a. Cardiac Science Powerheart G5

• Pads Expiry: The pads for the Powerheart G5 typically last 2 years. Regular replacement is essential to ensure the pads are functional in case of an emergency.

• Battery Expiry: The battery for the Powerheart G5 generally lasts about 4 years. The device will provide notifications if the battery is nearing the end of its useful life.

5. Defibtech AEDs

a. Defibtech Lifeline VIEW and AED

• Pads Expiry: The pads for the Defibtech Lifeline VIEW and AED have an expiration period of 2 years.

• Battery Expiry: The battery for these AEDs generally lasts 5 years. Regular checks and timely replacements are crucial for maintaining the AED's functionality.

Best Practices for AED Maintenance

1. Regular Checks: Even though many AEDs come with self-monitoring features, it’s good practice to manually check the status of pads and batteries periodically.

2. Document Expiries: Keep a log of expiry dates for both pads and batteries. This helps in planning replacements in advance and avoids last-minute scrambles.

3. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding replacement timelines and maintenance procedures.

4. Training and Awareness: Ensure that all potential users of the AED are aware of its maintenance requirements and how to check the status of the device.

5. Disposal: Follow proper disposal methods for expired pads and batteries. Many manufacturers offer recycling programs or can provide guidance on proper disposal.

Conclusion

Maintaining the readiness of your AED involves more than just having it on-site. Regularly replacing expired pads and batteries is essential for ensuring that the device will function correctly in an emergency. By staying informed about the expiry dates of AED components for various models and following best practices for maintenance, you can help save lives with confidence.

If you’re responsible for an AED, take the time to review its maintenance schedule and ensure all components are up to date. Regular attention to these details can make a crucial difference in a cardiac emergency.

Feel free to reach out to AED.ca with any questions or for further clarification on maintaining AEDs.  If you are looking for an AED recommendation.  We recommend the Zoll AED 3.  For more information go to https://aed.ca/products/zoll-aed-3