How to tell if a defibrillator is working?
As a defibrillator is a life saving piece of equipment that may be called on in a moment’s notice, making sure that it is always in working condition should be a priority. Manufacturers design devices so that they regularly test themselves and display whether they are ready to be used.
How to check if a defibrillator is working
As a first aid responder, you should be able to tell whether the AED device is rescue-ready to give a shock at a glance. Systems have been put in place by most defib manufacturers to convey this clearly.
Check the ‘Ready’ status indicator
The majority of AEDs feature a device status indicator, which is typically a green light or a green tick on the front of the unit. This light indicates that the device’s electrode pads and battery are connected and in date.
This is determined by a self test which is completed by the device on a daily or weekly basis. The self test is actually the defibrillator delivering a small shock to itself to determine it is working as expected.
If the self test fails or the connected pads or battery are out of date, the status indicator will show as a red light or as a cross. If this shows, take the device out of service immediately, check and replace the electrode pads and battery and contact your supplier if the fault remains unresolved.
Check the AED battery
The battery is one of the most common reasons a self-test fails.
- Most AED batteries display an expiry date printed on the battery itself.
- Some models show a separate battery-level indicator distinct from the main status light.
- A battery nearing its expiry date should be replaced to avoid the risk of failure in an emergency
Check the electrode pads
Expired or damaged electrode pads can significantly reduce the effectiveness of a shock delivery.
- Electrode pads also have an expiry date printed on the packaging, check this at the same time as the battery.
- Confirm the pads are still sealed and undamaged – a damaged or opened pad packet should be replaced even if not yet expired.
- Securely connect the pads if they’ve been disturbed – a poor connection can trigger a self-test failure.
Keep your defibrillator ready
To keep your defibrillator in working condition at all times, regular checks and services are recommended. As the device will be relied on to save a life when called upon, it is imperative that they are looked after.
We recommend a regular defibrillator service by a certified technician to keep your device ready to be called upon when needed. Defib Warehouse offers an AED Service for a one off cost of £175+VAT.
Alternatively, the more cost effective option for you may be one of our 5 year defibrillator maintenance contracts. These include the following:
- Registration in our maintenance system, allowing us to notify you of any product recalls or updates through the duration of the 5 years
- Annual servicing of your defibrillator, completed on-site by one of our certified engineers
- Discount on any consumables (pads and batteries) through the maintenance period
- Email notifications when your consumables are due to expire
- 10 e-learning licenses annually on our bespoke platform
- A loan defibrillator in case of malfunction or repairs to your device
The maintenance contracts are available for just £200+VAT per year.
Peace of Mind
With 2 services spread across the 5 year defibrillator maintenance contract period, you can rest with peace of mind knowing that your AED device has been inspected by a fully qualified engineer who has years of experience.
In case of any issues with your device, such as product recalls from the manufacturer, we also offer a loan unit for you to keep on site while the issues with your defibrillator are being resolved.
