Defibrillators, also called automated external defibrillators (AEDs), are designed to be simple to use and ready at a moment’s notice. However, their reliability depends on regular upkeep.

Even though most modern AEDs carry out automatic self-tests, these checks cannot replace human oversight. Batteries, pads, and other consumable parts have fixed lifespans, and the device’s readiness can be affected by environmental conditions or accidental damage.

In the UK, guidance from the British Heart Foundation (BHF) and the Resuscitation Council UK recommends routine checks to ensure AEDs remain operational. These inspections help confirm that the device is complete, functional, and accessible when needed. Neglecting maintenance can lead to an AED failing when it is most needed, with serious consequences for emergency response.

Did you know?
The BHF’s national AED registry, The Circuit, can send reminders when consumables are due for replacement, helping organisations stay on top of maintenance schedules.

UK Guidance on Defibrillator Maintenance

In the UK, there is no single law that mandates how often a defibrillator must be serviced. However, several authoritative organisations issue clear recommendations.

British Heart Foundation (BHF) – Advises that AEDs should be checked regularly for visible damage, battery and pad expiry dates, and the device’s status indicator. The BHF also recommends registering the device with The Circuit to receive automated maintenance reminders.
Resuscitation Council UK – States that AEDs should have a designated “Responsible Person” who carries out routine inspections and ensures consumables are replaced before expiry.
St John Ambulance – Suggests visual checks at least once a week, with more frequent checks in high-use or outdoor locations.
Manufacturers – Each model has its own servicing schedule, which may include an annual professional inspection to maintain warranty cover.

Although the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) does not publish specific AED maintenance rules, it expects employers and community providers to keep any emergency equipment “fit for purpose” as part of general health and safety obligations.

Observation:
In many public buildings, AED cabinets have visibility panels, making it easy to check status lights without unlocking the case—this helps keep inspections quick and consistent.

Routine Checks You Can Do Yourself

Most AED maintenance tasks can be carried out without specialist training. Regular visual checks help ensure the device remains ready for immediate use. The following steps are commonly recommended by UK guidance and manufacturers:

Check the status indicator
- Most AEDs have a light or display showing readiness. A green light or tick usually means the device has passed its self-tests. A red light, cross, or warning icon signals a fault.
Confirm battery and pad expiry dates
- Batteries and electrode pads typically last between 2 and 5 years, depending on the model. Expiry dates are printed on the components or packaging.
Inspect for physical damage
- Look for cracks, loose parts, water ingress, or signs of tampering.
Ensure accessories are complete
- This may include spare pads, a child/infant key or pads, a prep kit (scissors, razor, gloves), and any location-specific items.
Record your check
- Keep a written or digital log of inspections. This supports compliance with workplace safety requirements and ensures accountability.

Recommended frequency:

Weekly in most workplace and public settings
Monthly in low-risk or private locations, provided the AED is registered and reminders are active

When to Replace Pads and Batteries

Both electrode pads and batteries have a fixed shelf life. Even if unused, the adhesive gel on pads can dry out, and battery capacity can decline over time. Using expired components risks the AED failing to deliver an effective shock.

Pads

Shelf life: Typically 2 to 5 years, depending on the manufacturer.
After use: Must be replaced immediately, as the adhesive and gel are designed for single use.
Storage: Keep in their sealed packaging until required.

Batteries

Shelf life: Usually 2 to 5 years in standby mode.
After use: Many AED batteries provide a limited number of shocks before depletion. After an emergency, replace the battery or check manufacturer guidance if partial capacity remains.
Type: Always use manufacturer-approved batteries to maintain device performance and warranty cover.

Tip:
Record expiry dates in a central log and set digital reminders at least one month before the replacement is due. Some registries, such as The Circuit, send automated alerts when expiry dates approach.

Professional Servicing

Most modern defibrillators require minimal technical maintenance, as they perform regular self-tests on their internal systems. However, professional servicing can still be beneficial in certain circumstances.

Manufacturer recommendations
Many AED manufacturers advise having the device inspected by an authorised service provider every 1 to 2 years. This may be a requirement to keep the warranty valid.

What a professional service may include

Full internal diagnostics beyond standard self-tests
Firmware updates
Testing of battery and capacitor performance under load
Verification of audio and visual prompts
Inspection of housing, connectors, and environmental seals

When professional servicing is most useful

For devices stored in harsh environments (e.g. outdoors, near dust or moisture)
Where the AED has been dropped, exposed to water, or damaged
After several years of use without a full inspection
When required by insurance or workplace compliance policies

While not legally mandated in the UK, annual or biennial professional checks can help confirm readiness, prolong device lifespan, and reduce the risk of unnoticed faults.

Maintenance After an Emergency Use

Whenever an AED is used, it should be taken out of service temporarily and inspected before being put back into readiness. This ensures that it is fully functional for any future emergencies.

Immediate steps after use:

Replace electrode pads – Used pads cannot be reused, even if they were applied briefly.
Check and replace the battery if needed – Some AEDs use most of their charge during one rescue attempt. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance for replacement.
Clean the device – Use manufacturer-approved wipes or disinfectants. Avoid excessive moisture.
Inspect for damage – Check for cracks, loose fittings, or other signs of impact.
Download event data – Some AEDs store heart rhythm and usage information, which may need to be shared with medical teams or kept for records.
Run a self-test – Confirm the device passes all automatic checks before returning it to service.

Observation:
In many workplaces, AEDs are stored in monitored cabinets with alarm systems. After an incident, these alarms can help alert the responsible person that post-use maintenance is required.

Common Mistakes in AED Upkeep

Even with good intentions, some organisations make errors that can leave an AED unready in an emergency. Common issues include:

Ignoring expiry dates - Relying solely on the device’s status indicator without checking pad and battery dates can lead to expired consumables.
Lack of a designated responsible person - Without someone assigned to oversee maintenance, checks may be irregular or forgotten.
Not recording inspections - Without logs, it is difficult to prove compliance or spot patterns of recurring faults.
Poor storage conditions - Storing an AED in extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or damp areas can damage components.
Failing to replace after use - Forgetting to restock pads, replace depleted batteries, or re-test the device after an incident.
Not following manufacturer-specific guidance - Different AED models have different servicing needs; a generic approach can miss important steps.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures that the device remains reliable, compliant with guidance, and capable of delivering treatment without delay.

FAQs

Yes. Self-tests detect many faults but cannot check for issues such as expired pads, missing accessories, or certain types of physical damage.
Most UK guidance recommends weekly visual checks, with monthly checks acceptable in low-risk or private locations.
No. There is no legal requirement, but manufacturers and some insurers recommend periodic professional inspections to ensure full functionality and maintain warranties.
Refer to the manufacturer’s manual immediately. Do not use the device until the issue is resolved. This may involve replacing parts, charging or changing the battery, or sending the unit for repair.
Yes. Both have a shelf life, usually between 2 and 5 years, and must be replaced before expiry.

Sources

A Guide to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)
Detailed UK guidance including a section on maintenance and pads/capacitor checks.
https://www.resus.org.uk/sites/default/files/2020-03/AED_Guide_2019-12-04.pdf

Resuscitation Council UK – Guidance: Defibrillators
Overview from Resuscitation Council UK on AED deployment and related guidance.
https://www.resus.org.uk/library/additional-guidance/guidance-defibrillators

Defibrillators – BHF
British Heart Foundation’s advice on maintaining defibrillators and registering with The Circuit.
https://www.bhf.org.uk/how-you-can-help/how-to-save-a-life/defibrillators

Guide to Defibrillator Maintenance and Upkeep – St John Ambulance
Checklist and advice on visual inspection frequencies and consumable checks.
https://www.sja.org.uk/get-advice/i-need-to-know/guide-to-defibrillator-maintenance-and-upkeep/

Simple Checklist to Maintain Your Defibrillator – DefibSpace
Recent summary (July 2025) referencing PUWER and MHRA guidance on regular checks and recording them.
https://www.defibspace.com/knowledge-hub/simple-checklist-to-maintain-your-defibrillator

Source Authority Notes:

Resuscitation Council UK and BHF are leading authorities in resuscitation standards and defibrillator programme best practices.
St John Ambulance provides practical, community-oriented maintenance guidance.
DefibSpace offers current regulatory context (PUWER, MHRA), reinforcing legal duties in workplace equipment upkeep.

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