Simple Checklist to Maintain Your Defibrillator

How-To Guides
Written By Elwyn Davies

Defibrillators, also known as automated external defibrillators (AEDs), are designed to be low-maintenance medical devices. However, regular checks are essential to ensure they remain ready to use in an emergency.

When a cardiac arrest occurs, every minute without defibrillation reduces the chance of survival by 10%. Maintaining your defibrillator properly can significantly improve response readiness and survival rates.

Did you know?
According to the British Heart Foundation, fewer than 1 in 10 people survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the UK. Immediate CPR and defibrillation can more than double survival chances.

Many AED units perform automatic self-tests. Even so, organisations including the Resuscitation Council UK and St John Ambulance recommend visual checks and scheduled maintenance to identify issues that automated tests might miss, such as expired pads or damage to the cabinet[^2][^3].

In this guide, you will find a straightforward checklist covering daily, monthly, and annual maintenance tasks, along with legal considerations and tips on proper storage.

Regulatory & Employer Responsibilities (UK Focus)

In the United Kingdom, there are no legal obligations for individuals to own or use a defibrillator. However, once a defibrillator is installed, certain responsibilities apply, especially for businesses and organisations.

Workplace Regulations

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) require employers to ensure that any work equipment, including defibrillators, is:

  • Suitable for use

  • Maintained in a safe condition

  • Inspected regularly to prevent deterioration[^4]

This means workplaces must regularly check AEDs and keep documented evidence of maintenance checks.

MHRA Guidance

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) recommends regular visual checks, routine servicing, and maintaining consumables within expiry dates. The MHRA also advises registering defibrillators with The Circuit, the UK’s national defibrillator network[^5].

Resuscitation Council UK Recommendations

The Resuscitation Council UK states that AEDs must always be ready to use. This includes:

  • Checking the status indicator

  • Ensuring electrode pads and batteries are in date

  • Replacing consumables after every use[^6]

Failure to maintain a defibrillator could result in device failure during a cardiac emergency, potentially increasing liability risks for organisations.

Daily and Weekly Basic Checks

Daily and weekly inspections are simple but essential to ensure that your defibrillator remains ready for use at any time. These checks typically take only a few minutes.

Daily Visual Checks

  • Status Indicator Light: Most AEDs have a green light or a clear symbol showing operational readiness. A red light or a cross usually indicates a fault that needs immediate attention.

  • Audible Alerts: Some models emit beeps when maintenance is required. Check for unusual sounds during daily inspections.

  • Physical Damage: Inspect the unit and cabinet for visible damage, including cracks or broken seals.

  • Accessibility: Confirm the AED is unobstructed, easily accessible, and clearly visible to potential users.

Weekly Checks

  • Signage and Instructions: Check that all AED signage remains clear and legible. Emergency instructions should be nearby and visible.

  • Cabinet Condition: If the AED is housed in a cabinet, ensure it is clean, intact, and the lock (if present) functions correctly.

  • Environmental Conditions: Verify that the storage location is suitable, free from excessive dust, moisture, or temperature extremes.

Many manufacturers provide user manuals with specific inspection routines. Following these instructions helps maintain compliance with UK guidance.

Observation:
In public locations, AED cabinets often gather dust or debris. Including a quick wipe-down in weekly checks can prevent obstruction of the status indicator.

Observation:
In workplaces, AEDs are sometimes hidden behind clutter or locked away without clear signage, making regular accessibility checks crucial.

Monthly Consumables Review

While AED units perform self-tests to check internal systems, consumable parts require manual inspection. These include electrode pads and batteries, which have defined shelf lives.

Pads

  • Check Expiry Dates: Most defibrillator electrode pads expire after 2 to 5 years. Expired pads may not adhere properly or conduct electricity effectively.

  • Stock Spare Pads: Especially in workplaces, consider keeping an extra set of pads to avoid downtime if the primary set is used.

  • Paediatric Pads: If your location requires paediatric defibrillation capability, check both adult and child pads.

Batteries

  • Check Expiry Dates: Batteries typically last between 2 and 5 years depending on the model. The expiry date is often printed on the battery casing.

  • Low Battery Indicator: Some devices display a low battery alert before expiry. This should prompt immediate battery replacement.

After-Use Considerations

  • Post-Incident Replacement: If the AED has been used, replace pads and batteries immediately, even if they appear intact.

  • Safe Disposal: Used or expired batteries must be disposed of following local recycling regulations. Pads can usually be disposed of in clinical waste, or according to manufacturer instructions.

Did You Know?
In the UK, expired or used AED batteries are classified as electrical waste and must not be disposed of with general rubbish[^7].

Annual Professional Servicing

An annual service ensures your defibrillator remains in peak condition, identifying issues that visual checks may not detect. Many AED manufacturers and professional medical suppliers offer annual or biannual servicing packages.

What an Annual Service Typically Includes

  • Full Device Diagnostics: A trained technician performs in-depth testing beyond standard self-checks, including shock delivery function and internal circuitry.

  • Firmware Updates: If applicable, the AED’s software is updated to the latest version to ensure optimal performance and compliance with updated resuscitation guidelines.

  • Connector and Electrode Inspection: The electrode connectors are checked for wear, corrosion, or contamination.

  • Battery and Pad Verification: Expiry dates and functional integrity of consumables are confirmed.

  • Cabinet and Accessory Check: Outdoor or indoor cabinets, signage, and emergency equipment like scissors or razors are inspected.

  • Service Certificate Issued: A written report or certificate is usually provided, which may be important for insurance or compliance purposes.

Keeping Accurate Records

  • Maintenance Log: Maintain a written or digital log of all checks and services. This provides clear evidence of ongoing maintenance and can be useful during health and safety inspections.

  • Notification Systems: Some suppliers offer reminder services for when your AED is due for servicing or when consumables approach expiry.

Observation:
Many organisations overlook firmware updates, yet out-of-date AED software can result in suboptimal prompts or guidance during an emergency.

Environmental and Placement Considerations

Correct placement and storage conditions are crucial to maintaining the functionality of your defibrillator. Environmental factors can affect the performance of both the device and its consumables.

Indoor vs Outdoor Storage

  • Indoor Use: Ensure the defibrillator is stored in a clean, dry location with stable temperature. Avoid placing it near heat sources or in direct sunlight.

  • Outdoor Use: Use a weatherproof, lockable cabinet with heating elements if temperatures regularly fall below 0°C. Outdoor cabinets should meet IP65 or higher waterproofing standards.

Temperature Guidelines

  • Operating Range: Most AEDs operate effectively between 0°C and 50°C. Always check manufacturer guidance.

  • Storage Range: Batteries and pads may have more limited storage tolerances. Exposure to extreme cold or heat can degrade these components.

Accessibility

  • Visibility: Place defibrillators in high-traffic, visible locations, ideally within a three-minute round trip from any point in the premises.

  • Obstruction-Free: Regularly check that access routes remain clear and the AED is not blocked by furniture or stored items.

  • Signage: Use standardised green AED signs (ISO 7010) to guide people to the device quickly.

Vehicle Storage

  • Mobile Units: If storing an AED in a vehicle, ensure it is protected from vibration, impact, and extreme temperatures. Portable carry cases help mitigate these risks.

Did You Know?
Many defibrillator failures in the UK are linked to improper outdoor storage during winter months, as cold temperatures can rapidly deplete battery power.

Creating and Logging Your Maintenance Checklist

A structured maintenance checklist helps ensure all essential tasks are completed consistently. Whether you manage a workplace, community location, or private AED, a checklist supports compliance and readiness.

An example of a defibrillator maintenance checklist

Tools for Record Keeping

  • Paper-Based Logs: Suitable for smaller organisations or community installations.

  • Digital Logs: Electronic spreadsheets can track dates and generate reminders.

  • National Networks: Register your AED on The Circuit (www.thecircuit.uk), which sends reminders for checks and expiry dates.

Sample Checklist Entry

Date: 17 July 2025
Check Performed By: J. Smith
Status Light: Green
Pads Expiry: 03/2027
Battery Expiry: 11/2026
Cabinet Condition: Good
Additional Notes: Cleaned cabinet exterior

Observation:
AED cabinets in busy areas often accumulate fingerprints and debris; a quick wipe during checks improves visibility and presentation.

Post-Use Procedure

After an AED has been used, prompt action is necessary to restore it to operational readiness. This ensures the device remains available for future emergencies without unnecessary delay.

Immediate Actions After Use

  • Inspect the Device: Check for any visible damage following use, including cables, connectors, and casing.

  • Dispose of Used Pads: Electrode pads are single-use and must be replaced after each incident, even if unused but opened.

  • Replace Pads and Batteries: If your AED model uses a non-rechargeable battery that is consumed during use (e.g., some Defibtech and HeartSine models), replace it as well.

  • Clean the AED: Wipe down the unit with a damp cloth and mild detergent if required. Avoid submerging or soaking the device.

Function Check and Status Reset

  • Restart Self-Test: Most AEDs automatically reset after replacing pads and batteries. Verify the device performs a self-check and shows ready status.

  • Check Accessories: Replace any additional used items, such as scissors, gloves, or razors from accessory kits.

Record Post-Use Actions

  • Document the Event: Log the incident, actions taken, and any replacements made.

  • Notify Relevant Authorities: Some organisations report usage to local ambulance services or registries like The Circuit, especially in public access scenarios.

Did You Know?
Defibrillator event data, including shock delivery and CPR quality, can often be downloaded and provided to healthcare professionals for post-incident review.

FAQs and Common Mistakes

  • Electrode pads use adhesive gels that can dry out or degrade over time, reducing effectiveness. Batteries lose charge capacity, and expired batteries can fail unexpectedly. Always follow manufacturer expiry dates to ensure reliability during an emergency.

  • A red light or cross typically indicates a malfunction. First, check the pads and battery expiry dates. If these are valid, consult the user manual. If the fault persists, contact the manufacturer or your AED service provider immediately.

  • Yes, but ensure the pads are not placed directly over the pacemaker (usually visible as a small lump below the collarbone). Follow standard electrode placement diagrams provided with the AED.

  • While UK law does not mandate servicing, PUWER requires employers to maintain equipment in safe working order. Annual servicing helps meet this obligation and can reduce liability risks.

Common Maintenance Mistakes

  • Forgetting to Check Pad Expiry: Out-of-date pads are a common failure point in community AEDs.

  • Ignoring Storage Conditions: Extreme temperatures can render AEDs inoperable.

  • Skipping Documentation: Failure to keep a maintenance log may cause compliance issues during inspections.

  • Blocking Access: Storing AEDs behind locked doors or obstructed areas can delay emergency response.

Observation:
AEDs placed in low-visibility locations are frequently overlooked during maintenance checks. Clear signage reduces this risk.

Wrapping it Up

Maintaining a defibrillator requires simple, regular checks to ensure it remains ready to use in a cardiac emergency. By following a structured maintenance routine—covering daily visual checks, monthly consumable reviews, and annual professional servicing—you can comply with UK best practice guidelines and improve emergency preparedness.

Proper placement, appropriate storage, and accurate record-keeping are equally important in maintaining your AED’s operational readiness. Whether for a workplace, public location, or private use, adherence to a clear maintenance routine supports both compliance and safety.

Sources

Source Commentary

  • BHF, Resuscitation Council UK, and St John Ambulance: Trusted organisations providing medically validated UK-specific guidance.

  • MHRA and HSE: UK government regulatory bodies with authoritative legal and safety advice.

  • ZOLL and Defibtech: Manufacturer guidance ensures product-specific accuracy.

  • The Circuit: National database offering validated support and reminders for AED owners.

Elwyn Davies
Next

Defibrillator on a Child: What You Need to Know