How often do you need to replace an AED?
Quick answer: Most AEDs stay in service about 8 to 10 years. You won’t replace the whole AED often, but you will replace its pads about every 2 years and its battery about every 4 years, and the pads after every use.
How long does an AED last?
AED lifespan is usually counted from the manufacture date on the device label, not the day you bought it. A unit kept in a climate-controlled building usually outlasts one kept in a vehicle or outdoors. New Philips HeartStart OnSite and FRx AEDs carry an 8-year manufacturer warranty, a good benchmark for when to start budgeting for a replacement.
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Under 6 years old: maintain it normally
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6 to 8 years old: start planning and budgeting for a replacement
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Over 8 years old: plan to replace it, and confirm pads and batteries are still available
When to replace AED pads
Pads contain a conductive gel that dries out over time, so every set has an expiration date on the package. Most pads last about 2 years. Replace them:
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Before the expiration date
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After every use, because pads are single-use
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If the package has been opened or damaged
Keep infant/child pads in date too. On the Philips FRx, the same SMART Pads II are used for children with the Infant/Child Key.
When to replace the AED battery
The long-life battery for the Philips HeartStart OnSite and FRx typically gives about 4 years of standby power when installed by its install-by date. Replace it before it expires, when the AED’s self-test flags a low battery, or after heavy use.
Signs it’s time for a new AED
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It fails a self-test even with in-date pads and battery
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The manufacturer has discontinued the model or ended support
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Pads or batteries are hard to find or on long backorder
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It’s past its expected service life or out of warranty
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It has been dropped, damaged, or exposed to water or temperatures beyond its rating
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It’s part of a recall that hasn’t been resolved
Which Philips AEDs are being phased out?
The Philips HeartStart FR2 and FR2+ are long discontinued and parts are no longer stocked. As of late 2026, some FR3 supplies have been on extended backorder. The HeartStart OnSite and FRx remain current models. In January 2026, Philips’ emergency care business became an independent company, Heartstream, which continues to manufacture and market Philips-branded AEDs.
Keep it ready between replacements
Philips HeartStart AEDs test themselves automatically, but someone still needs to look at them. A quick monthly check should confirm:
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The green ready light is blinking
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The AED isn’t chirping or showing an alert
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Pads and battery are in date
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The unit is clean, undamaged and easy to reach
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Rescue kit supplies (gloves, razor, scissors, CPR mask) are in place
Rather not track it yourself? CMR CPR’s AED program management handles inspections, expiration tracking and replacement reminders.
After your AED is used
Replace the pads right away, check the battery and confirm the AED passes its self-test before putting it back in service. Pennsylvania law also asks AED owners to make data from the device available to EMS or other health care providers on request. We can help you get back in service quickly.
Need pads, a battery or a new AED?
Call or text (484) 265-1792 or email cmrcpr.pa@gmail.com. Shopping for a replacement? See new and refurbished AEDs for sale or our AED cost guide.
More from the AED Center: How to use an AED
