Keeping Up With Proper AED Maintenance

Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are life-saving, mission-critical devices designed to restore normal heart rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Whether located in a hospital, school, airport, or workplace, AEDs must be functional at all times to deliver that life-saving shock when seconds count.

So, how often should an AED be serviced? The answer depends on the manufacturer’s guidelines and the type of AED, but routine inspections and preventive maintenance are essential. A service-oriented approach ensures every component—from batteries to electrode pads—is ready when needed.

In this guide, we’ll walk through key AED components, recommended maintenance schedules, common causes of failure, and how PartsSource supports a proactive approach to AED readiness.

Understanding AED Components and Their Maintenance Needs

PartsSource offers a wide selection of AEDs and parts, including OEM and high-quality alternatives, to help clinical teams maintain readiness and replace components efficiently.

 

Batteries – The Power Behind the AED

AED batteries typically last between 2 to 7 years, depending on the manufacturer and usage. Some models feature low-battery alerts or indicators but don’t rely on warnings alone. A depleted battery can render an AED inoperable during a cardiac emergency.

Pro tip: Always keep a backup battery available and store it properly to avoid capacity loss over time. For healthcare teams overseeing large fleets of AEDs, PartsSource offers access to OEM and high-quality aftermarket battery replacements that meet or exceed performance standards.

Electrode Pads – Ensuring Proper Shock Delivery

Electrode pads typically have a shelf life of 2 to 5 years, as the adhesive gel degrades over time. Expired pads may not adhere correctly, reducing the chance of a successful defibrillation. Ensure you have both adult and pediatric pads on hand, as different patients require different pad types.

Keep pads in their sealed packaging and store them away from moisture, extreme heat, or mechanical stress, which can damage the gel and wiring.

Status Indicator and Self-Tests

What does the flashing light on an AED mean? Most AEDs feature a visible status light: green indicates readiness, red signals maintenance is required. Many models also run automatic self-tests, checking for battery life, pad connectivity, and internal circuitry.

Some AEDs emit warning beeps or display error codes—knowing how to interpret these indicators can mean the difference between a saved life and a missed opportunity. Check your manufacturer’s manual or consult your biomedical team for a breakdown of alerts by model.

AED Maintenance Schedule – What to Check and When

For hospitals and healthcare facilities, implementing a standardized AED maintenance protocol is critical to maintaining operational readiness across all departments. In environments where dozens—or even hundreds—of AEDs are in use, consistency in maintenance, traceability, and documentation is essential. Biomedical and HTM professionals can simplify replacement planning by sourcing defibrillators and essential components through a centralized, trusted platform.

Daily Visual Inspection

For facility managers and first responders, a quick daily inspection includes:

• Verifying the status indicator light is green (ready).

• Ensuring AEDs are placed in clearly marked, accessible locations with no obstructions.

• Checking for physical damage to the housing, missing accessories, or obstructed ventilation.

Many HTM departments incorporate this into shift-start or environmental rounds, particularly in high-traffic areas.

Monthly Functionality Check

Biomedical engineers and HTM teams should ensure:

• Battery test button functionality is intact and reports expected power levels.

• Pads are sealed, unexpired, and stored at the manufacturer’s recommended temperature and humidity.

• CPR support kits (razor, mask, gloves, shears) are present and sealed.

Consider centralizing this process in CMMS software or PartsSource PRO® to create audit-ready inspection records.

Annual Professional Servicing

A comprehensive inspection—performed either in-house by HTM staff or via a service partnership—should include:

• Verification of shock delivery accuracy through a calibrated test unit.

• Battery capacity measurement under load conditions.

• Inspection for internal corrosion, software logs, and event storage capacity.

• Updates to firmware based on manufacturer-issued service bulletins.

• Compliance checklists aligned with FDA postmarket surveillance and Joint Commission requirements.

PartsSource supports this annual process through access to certified biomedical service teams, as well as documentation tools that streamline recordkeeping.

Tips for Multi-Site AED Program Management

For organizations operating across multiple locations—like hospital networks or EMS departments—AED management becomes exponentially more complex. Here are three best practices:

1. Centralize Inventory & Service Tracking
   Use a technology-enabled platform to log AED serial numbers, service intervals, part replacements, and recall alerts. This provides visibility into device status across facilities and reduces reliance on manual logs.
    

2. Standardize AED Models
   Where possible, streamline procurement to just one or two AED brands. This simplifies training, part replacement, and firmware update processes, especially when managing types of implantable cardioverter defibrillators, like single or dual-chamber ICDs, alongside traditional AEDs.
    

3. Align With Emergency Preparedness Plans
   AED maintenance should be integrated with broader emergency preparedness protocols. HTM teams and first responders must collaborate to ensure AEDs are ready and accessible as part of disaster or rapid-response scenarios.

Common AED Failures and How to Prevent Them

AEDs are designed for reliability, but they still require attention. The most common causes of AED failure include:

• Expired or depleted batteries – Replace batteries proactively based on lifespan, not just warning lights.

• Outdated or dried-out electrode pads – Always check the expiration date and ensure pads are stored in optimal conditions.

• Software and firmware issues – Some AEDs require updates to function properly. Check with your manufacturer or service partner regularly.

• Storage-related damage – AEDs stored in extreme heat, humidity, or dusty conditions may degrade over time. Consider wall-mounted cabinets with alarms to protect your device while keeping it accessible.

A data-driven approach to maintenance, including centralized inventory management and service tracking, can prevent these issues and promote uninterrupted AED availability.

Legal and Compliance Considerations

Is AED maintenance required by law? In many cases, yes. Both federal and state regulations—along with OSHA and FDA guidelines—require AEDs to be inspected and maintained regularly.

In addition, Good Samaritan laws typically offer protection to those who use AEDs in emergencies. However, that protection may only apply if the device was properly maintained and functional.

To stay compliant:

• Keep a maintenance log of daily, monthly, and annual checks

• Maintain records of battery and pad replacements

• Stay informed of recalls and software updates

Organizations that partner with PartsSource gain access to maintenance resources and insight-driven support to meet compliance standards with confidence.

How PartsSource Supports AED Maintenance

At PartsSource, we understand that AEDs are mission-critical medical devices that must be ready to perform—every time. Our comprehensive catalog of biomedical equipment includes parts of a defibrillator, batteries, pads, and other life-supporting components critical to your AED maintenance program. Need help diagnosing or servicing an AED that’s not functioning properly? PartsSource also connects you with a nationwide network of qualified providers through our medical equipment repair service, reducing downtime and helping your team stay in control of compliance.

• Access to OEM and high-quality aftermarket batteries and electrode pads, ensuring fast replacements that meet or exceed original specifications

• Fast shipping options to reduce downtime and keep your AEDs ready for use

• Support for biomedical professionals through our technology-enabled platform, simplifying maintenance tracking, documentation, and compliance

We help healthcare teams expand capacity, prevent problems before they occur, and achieve measurable outcomes—like increased equipment uptime and better patient safety.

Conclusion

AEDs save lives—but only when they’re properly maintained. From routine visual checks to annual professional servicing, a structured AED maintenance plan helps ensure these critical devices are always ready for action.

Remember:

• Monitor battery and pad expiration dates

• Respond to status lights and self-test alerts

• Schedule regular inspections and keep documentation up to date

If you’re responsible for AED readiness in your facility, PartsSource is your partner in ensuring healthcare is Always On™. Explore our selection of AED batteries, electrode pads, and service tools, and take the next step toward predictable, evidence-based equipment readiness.

Explore AED maintenance solutions at PartsSource.