Once your organisation installs an AED, the next question is simple. How often does it need to be serviced?
AEDs are designed to be reliable, but they are not set-and-forget devices. Pads expire, batteries age, and units can be affected by dust, heat, moisture, or tampering. Regular checks keep the device ready for real emergencies and help keep your organisation aligned with best practice.
This guide explains how servicing works in South Australia and what most businesses can expect.
Why AEDs Need Regular Servicing
AEDs contain consumables that naturally expire over time. These include:
- Electrode pads
- Batteries
- Response kits and accessories
Manufacturers set specific expiry dates for these components, and they need to be replaced to keep the unit functioning correctly. Many devices also perform self-tests that show when something is wrong, but they still need a physical inspection to confirm everything is in working order.
The Role of SA Health’s Public Guidance
South Australia provides public information that encourages organisations to keep AEDs regularly checked and ready for use. This includes:
- Routine visual checks
- Replacing expired consumables
- Keeping records of inspections
- Ensuring the AED is accessible, visible and not obstructed
While this guidance is not a substitute for legal advice, it reflects the practical steps most organisations follow to maintain their AEDs responsibly.
Six-Monthly Inspections Are Standard Practice
Across the industry, the common best practice is to service AEDs every six months.
A typical six-monthly service includes:
- Checking the AED’s status indicator
- Confirming battery and pad expiry dates
- Ensuring the cabinet and signage are in good condition
- Testing the alarm or cabinet accessories
- Recording inspection details for your internal records
This keeps the AED ready for use and helps the organisation demonstrate responsible management of life saving equipment.
What Happens if an AED Is Used
When an AED is deployed during an emergency, the site should notify their service provider as soon as possible.
After use, a technician will:
- Inspect the unit
- Check internal logs
- Replace used pads
- Confirm battery status
- Restore the AED to a ready state
A small call-out fee may apply, and consumables are replaced as needed.
Replacing AEDs at End of Life
Most AED units reach end of life after about eight years. At that point, manufacturers recommend replacing the unit entirely. This is because:
- Technology evolves
- Batteries and internal components age
- Newer models offer improved reliability
A good maintenance provider will track this timeline and notify you when your unit is nearing end of life.
Why Ongoing Maintenance Matters
An AED that has expired pads, a flat battery, or a damaged cabinet may not operate correctly in an emergency. Regular servicing ensures:
- The unit remains ready to use
- Consumables are always in date
- Tampering or damage is caught early
- Records are kept for internal audits
- Sites stay aligned with public guidance and manufacturer recommendations
Proper maintenance also reduces stress for site managers who want confidence that everything is handled correctly.
A Simple Way to Stay On Top of It
Many organisations choose a maintenance plan so they do not have to track servicing themselves. With a plan in place, a technician visits every six months, checks the unit and updates the records. Consumables are replaced when needed and the AED stays ready year-round.
If you want help managing your AEDs or would like a technician to assess your site, you can upload your floorplan through the SafePulse website and our team will review it for you.