FAQ

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Why Do Defibrillator Pads Need Replacing?

AED pads (electrodes) have a limited shelf life — typically between 2 and 5 years depending on the brand — and must be replaced before they expire, even if the device has never been used. Here’s why:

• The gel degrades: Pads use a conductive gel to maintain good electrical contact with the patient’s skin. Over time, this gel dries out and loses conductivity, meaning the shock may not be delivered effectively.
• The adhesive weakens: Pads need to stick firmly to the patient’s chest during a resuscitation attempt. Old pads may not adhere properly, reducing their effectiveness.
• After a rescue: Pads used in an actual resuscitation must always be replaced immediately — they are single-use only and cannot be reused.
• After training: If your AED uses real pads for training, replace them before putting the device back into service. Some brands offer dedicated training pads to avoid this.

Most AEDs will alert you when pads are approaching expiry via a visual or audible indicator. However, you should also check expiry dates manually as part of your regular AED maintenance routine.

Fitting new pads? Make sure they go on correctly — our guide covers where AED pads go on the body, including tricky cases.