AED Pads and Batteries Replacement Guide Ireland

AED readiness depends on replacing pads and batteries before expiry and keeping the device visible, accessible and ready for use.

Use this guide to check the replacement intervals for the ZOLL and Powerheart models supplied in Ireland through this catalogue, and to gather AED model, expiry, quantity and delivery details before requesting replacement pads, batteries or accessories.

Why AED pads and batteries expire

Defibrillation pads are gel-backed electrodes, and the gel degrades over time even in sealed packaging, so every set carries a printed expiry date. AED batteries discharge slowly while the unit runs its self-checks, so they carry a stated life or replacement programme. An AED with expired pads or a depleted battery may not be ready when someone collapses, which is the whole reason the device is on the wall.

Most AEDs run automatic self-checks and show a status indicator. Treat a warning indicator or chirp as an order for replacements, not a suggestion.

Replacement intervals by model

The figures below are the manufacturer's published figures for the models supplied through this catalogue. The expiry date printed on each pad packet or battery always governs, because shelf life runs from the date of manufacture, not the date you fitted the item.

ZOLL AED 3

The ZOLL AED 3 uses CPR Uni-padz Universal III electrodes with a five-year shelf life, and one set covers both adult and child patients, so there is no separate paediatric pad set to track. A replacement battery pack is available for the AED 3; replace it when the device's status check calls for it.

ZOLL AED Plus

The AED Plus uses CPR-D-padz one-piece electrodes, which also carry a five-year shelf life. The device runs on standard Type 123 lithium batteries with a five-year battery life, supplied in replacement sets.

Powerheart G5

The Powerheart G5 takes Intellisense defibrillation pads in adult and paediatric versions. The pads carry a printed expiry date which the G5 monitors through its Rescue Ready self-checks. The Intellisense battery comes with a four-year replacement programme.

Powerheart G3

The Powerheart G3 also uses Intellisense batteries with a four-year replacement programme, alongside adult and paediatric defibrillation pads with printed expiry dates.

Replace pads after every use

Defibrillation pads are single-use. Once a set has been opened or applied it must be replaced before the AED goes back on the wall, even if no shock was delivered. After any rescue, check the battery indicator at the same time and restock the rescue kit so the device is ready for the next emergency.

Adult pads, paediatric pads and training electrodes

Whether you need a separate paediatric set depends on the model. The AED 3's CPR Uni-padz cover adult and child patients in one set. The Powerheart G3 and G5 use dedicated paediatric pads alongside the adult sets. Schools, creches and pools should confirm paediatric cover when ordering.

Training electrodes, such as the trainer electrodes for the Powerheart G3 Trainer, are for training devices only and must never be loaded into a live AED.

Not sure which model you have?

The model name is printed on the front or top of the device, and the packaging of the pads currently connected names the compatible AED. If the labels have worn, note the serial number from the rear label or simply photograph the device and the pad connector and include the photos with your enquiry. Matching consumables to the exact model matters because pad connectors and battery housings differ between AEDs, even within the same brand.

Keeping your AED rescue-ready

Build a simple readiness routine: log the expiry dates of every pad set and battery when they arrive, check the status indicator on a set day each week or month, and order replacements ahead of expiry rather than after it. Where an employer provides an AED as part of its emergency arrangements, the general duty under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 to maintain workplace equipment extends to keeping the AED serviceable. In plain terms: a defibrillator that fails its self-check because nobody replaced the pads protects no one and is hard to defend afterwards.

Storage is part of readiness. Wall cabinets and AED accessories such as carry cases, signage and outdoor heated cabinets keep the device visible, protected and within its working temperature range, which also protects the consumables you have just paid to replace.

For multiple sites, send the device models and locations and the team can quote replacement cycles across the whole estate in one go.

Useful product links

Defibrillator Pads and Batteries - replacement pads and batteries.

Defibrillator Accessories - AED cabinets, cases and accessories.

Defibrillators Ireland - AED category page.

ZOLL Defibrillators Ireland - ZOLL brand page.

Example AED pads and batteries

CPR Uni-padz Universal III electrodes - five-year shelf life pads for the ZOLL AED 3, adult and child.

ZOLL AED 3 Battery Pack - replacement battery for the AED 3.

CPR-D-padz - one-piece electrode for the ZOLL AED Plus, five-year shelf life.

Type 123 Lithium Batteries - replacement battery set for the AED Plus.

Powerheart G5 Intellisense Adult Defibrillation Pads - adult pads for the G5.

Powerheart G5 Intellisense Paediatric Defibrillation Pads - paediatric pads for the G5.

Intellisense Battery for the Powerheart G5 AED - battery with a four-year replacement programme.

Powerheart G3 AED Intellisense Battery - replacement battery for Powerheart G3 AEDs.

Powerheart G3 AED Adult Defibrillation Pads - adult pads for the G3.

AED pads and batteries FAQs

How often should AED pads be replaced?

Replace pads at the expiry date printed on the packet, or immediately after any use. ZOLL's CPR Uni-padz for the AED 3 and CPR-D-padz for the AED Plus both carry a five-year shelf life. Powerheart Intellisense pads carry a printed expiry date, and the G5 monitors pad expiry through its self-checks.

How often should AED batteries be replaced?

Follow the manufacturer's programme for your model. The AED Plus runs on Type 123 lithium batteries with a five-year battery life, and the Powerheart G3 and G5 Intellisense batteries come with a four-year replacement programme. Whatever the calendar says, replace the battery whenever the device's status indicator calls for it.

Do I need separate paediatric pads?

It depends on the AED. The ZOLL AED 3's CPR Uni-padz cover adult and child patients in a single set. The Powerheart G3 and G5 use dedicated paediatric pads, so settings with children should keep both sets with the device.

What happens if AED pads or batteries expire?

The AED's self-check will normally flag the fault on its status indicator, and a device with expired consumables cannot be relied on in a rescue. Do not wait for the warning: log expiry dates when consumables arrive and replace ahead of the date.

Can I use pads from one AED brand in another?

No. Pad connectors and the electronics behind them are model-specific, so pads must be ordered for the exact make and model of AED they will live with. If you are unsure of the model, send a photo of the device with your enquiry.

Should spare pads be kept with the AED?

It is good practice, particularly for sites that are far from a supplier or that serve both adults and children. Pads are single-use, so a spare set means the device goes straight back into service after a rescue instead of waiting on a delivery.

What details help with an AED pads or batteries quote?

Include the AED make and model, quantities, expiry dates if relevant, delivery location and any accessory requirements.

AED training

Phoenix STS, which owns and operates safetyequipment.ie, runs the HeartSaver AED course for workplaces and community responders, so the people standing beside your AED know how to use it.

Quotation checklist

When requesting a quotation, include the product name or SKU, quantity, delivery location, user environment, required accessories and any relevant compliance or training needs.

Contact Safety Equipment Ireland for a quotation