How Often Should You Replace AED Pads and Batteries? (Brand-by-Brand Guide)

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is only as reliable as the consumables inside it. The unit itself can last 8 to 10 years, but its electrode pads and battery expire far sooner — and expired consumables are one of the leading reasons an AED fails when someone needs it most. In fact, analyses of AED failures have traced roughly half of preventable issues to out-of-date pads and batteries. The good news: with a simple replacement schedule, your device stays rescue-ready year-round.

Here is exactly how often to replace AED pads and batteries, brand by brand.

Why AED pads and batteries expire

Electrode pads carry a conductive gel that lets the AED read the heart’s rhythm and deliver a shock. Over time that gel dries out, so the pads may no longer adhere or conduct effectively. Batteries power the AED’s computer and its high-energy shock, and they slowly drain in standby mode as the device runs its automatic self-tests. Both carry a printed expiration date — and both should be replaced before that date arrives.

General replacement intervals

• AED pads: typically 2 to 5 years (some run as short as 18–30 months), depending on brand and model.
• AED batteries: typically 2 to 5 years in standby, depending on brand and model.
• The AED unit: roughly 8 to 10 years of useful service life, or sooner if the model is no longer supported.

Always replace pads and a battery as the manufacturer specifies, or immediately after any use — even a deployment where no shock was delivered.

Replacement intervals by brand

Use these as general guidance and always confirm against the date printed on your specific pads and battery:

• Philips HeartStart — OnSite/Home and HS1 batteries last about 4 years; SMART Pads II and M5071A adult pads are generally replaced about every 2 years or after use. FRx pads follow a similar pad interval.
• ZOLL AED Plus — uses lithium 123A batteries replaced about every 5 years. One-piece CPR-D-padz carry a 5-year shelf life (matching the battery), while two-piece Stat-padz run about 2 years and Pedi-padz II about 2 years.
• ZOLL AED 3 — pads and battery intervals depend on configuration; check the printed dates and status indicator.
• HeartSine Samaritan PAD — combines the battery and pads into a single Pad-Pak cartridge with one expiration date, usually around 4 years from manufacture. You track one date and replace the whole cartridge.
• Defibtech Lifeline — standard batteries run several years (long-life backup batteries can have an extended shelf life); pads are generally replaced about every 2 years or by their printed date.
• Cardiac Science Powerheart — pads are commonly replaced about every 2 years; batteries per the model’s specification.
• Physio-Control / Stryker LIFEPAK — pads for the LIFEPAK series typically last about 2 years; batteries per model.

Need replacements? Shop genuine, manufacturer-approved AED pads for every brand, or simplify your schedule with our AED Pad & Battery Maintenance Packages.

Always replace pads after any use

Any time an AED is deployed in an emergency, plan to replace the pads — even if no shock was delivered. The goal is not to squeeze the last days out of a consumable; it is to restore full readiness immediately so the device is prepared for the next emergency. Depending on the event, the battery may also need to be evaluated.

Do not forget pediatric pads

If your AED may be used on children, keep a current set of pediatric pads (or a pediatric key, on models that use one). Pediatric pads have their own expiration dates — often around 2 years — and are easy to overlook.

A simple readiness routine

• Check the status indicator every month (a green light or check means ready on most models).
• Read the printed expiration dates on pads and battery during each check.
• Order replacements about 60 days early so you never have a coverage gap.
• Log each inspection and keep a spare set of in-date pads on hand.

Want the bigger picture on device upkeep? Read how often you need to service an AED and why pads and batteries need to be replaced.

Frequently asked questions

How often do AED pads need to be replaced?

Most pads last 2 to 5 years depending on brand and model, and should be replaced by their printed expiration date or immediately after any use.

How long do AED batteries last?

Most AED batteries last 2 to 5 years in standby. Replace sooner if the device shows a low-battery warning.

Do AED pads expire even if they are never used?

Yes. The conductive gel dries out over time, so sealed, unused pads still expire and must be replaced by their printed date.

Replacement intervals are general guidance only. Always follow the expiration dates and instructions for your specific AED model and consumables.