AED Devices

An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is designed for use by lay rescuers without medical training. It automatically analyses the patient's heart rhythm, determines whether a shock is required, and either delivers the shock automatically or prompts the user to press a button. Voice and visual prompts guide the user through the entire resuscitation process including CPR.

A manual defibrillator is a clinical device intended for use by trained healthcare professionals. It displays the patient's ECG rhythm on a screen and requires the operator to interpret the rhythm, select the appropriate energy level and deliver the shock manually. Manual defibrillators typically also support synchronised cardioversion, external pacing and advanced monitoring functions such as SpO2, NIBP and capnography.

AEDs are appropriate for public access deployment, workplaces, schools and community settings. Manual defibrillators are used in hospitals, ambulances and by paramedic and clinical teams.

Yes. Selfimed UK supplies both new and professionally refurbished defibrillators. Refurbished defibrillators represent a cost-effective and environmentally responsible alternative to purchasing new, and are widely used by NHS Trusts, ambulance services and community organisations.

All refurbished units we supply undergo a comprehensive reconditioning process including:

Full functional testing of all clinical and monitoring parameters including defibrillation energy delivery, ECG, pacing and any additional modules.

Replacement of consumable components including electrode pads, batteries and any worn or degraded parts.

Software updates where applicable to ensure the device runs the latest approved firmware.

Electrical safety testing to IEC 62353 standards.

Each refurbished unit is supplied with a warranty, service report and full documentation. The condition of the unit (cosmetic grade) is clearly described in the product listing.

Electrode pads have a manufacturer-specified expiry date, typically 2 to 5 years from the date of manufacture depending on the brand and model. Pads must be replaced on or before the expiry date regardless of whether they have been used. Expired pads may fail to adhere correctly or deliver inadequate impedance measurement, compromising defibrillation effectiveness.

Pads must also be replaced immediately after any use — they are single-use consumables and cannot be reused under any circumstances.

Batteries have a standby life of 2 to 5 years depending on model and usage. Most AEDs perform automatic self-tests and will alert via a status indicator if the battery is approaching the end of its life. Replace the battery in accordance with the manufacturer's schedule and always before the expiry date.

Keeping a spare set of pads and a spare battery on hand is strongly recommended so that the AED can be immediately restored to service after any deployment.

We supply both genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) consumables and quality-verified compatible alternatives depending on availability and the specific device model.

Where a compatible pad or battery is listed, it is clearly identified as compatible rather than OEM, and is supplied with its own CE/UKCA marking and documentation confirming compatibility with the stated device models.

For devices used in clinical settings subject to clinical governance and medical device management policies, we recommend using OEM consumables where possible, as these are validated by the manufacturer for use with the specific device. For community AED programmes where cost is a primary consideration, quality-verified compatible consumables are a practical and safe alternative.

If you are unsure which pad or battery is correct for your specific device model, contact our team with the defibrillator model number and we will confirm the correct part.

The appropriate storage solution depends on the deployment environment:

Soft carry cases protect the AED during transport and are suitable for first responders, sports teams, event medical staff and mobile deployment. They typically include pockets for spare pads, a razor, gloves and a face shield.

Hard carry cases provide greater impact protection and are used in challenging environments such as offshore, industrial sites and emergency vehicles.

Wall-mounted indoor cabinets allow the AED to be stored visibly and accessibly in a fixed location such as a workplace, school, leisure centre or public building. Standard indoor cabinets are not alarmed or heated.

Outdoor alarmed cabinets are weatherproof, heated to protect the battery and pads in cold conditions, and fitted with an alarm that activates when the cabinet is opened. These are required for AEDs deployed in external public locations.

All AEDs should be stored with clear signage indicating their location, in accordance with Resuscitation Council UK guidance on public access defibrillation.

AEDs are designed to be used by untrained lay rescuers — the device provides all the guidance needed through voice prompts and visual instructions. In the UK, there is no legal requirement for training before using a public access AED in a cardiac arrest emergency, and Good Samaritan protections apply to those who attempt resuscitation in good faith.

However, training is strongly recommended. A basic CPR and AED course typically takes 2 to 4 hours and significantly increases confidence and effectiveness in a real emergency. Training courses are available through the Resuscitation Council UK, British Red Cross, St John Ambulance and many other providers.

For organisations deploying AEDs in workplaces, schools or community settings, it is good practice to ensure that designated trained responders are identified and that the AED location is registered with the local ambulance service via the Circuit national defibrillator network.

Most modern AEDs perform automatic daily or weekly self-tests and display a status indicator — typically a green tick or light — confirming the device is ready for use. A periodic visual check of this indicator is the minimum maintenance requirement.

A formal maintenance check should be performed at least monthly and should include:

Status indicator check: confirm the device displays a ready status.

Pad expiry check: confirm electrode pads are in date and the packaging is intact and undamaged.

Battery status check: confirm the battery indicator shows adequate charge and the battery is within its service life.

Accessory check: confirm the carry case or cabinet contains all required accessories including gloves, a face shield, a razor and scissors.

Cabinet check (if applicable): confirm the cabinet is undamaged, the alarm is functional and the heating element is operating in outdoor cabinets.

All checks should be logged in a maintenance record. After any emergency deployment, the AED must be restocked with new pads and assessed before being returned to service.

Yes. Registering your AED with the national Circuit defibrillator network (operated by the British Heart Foundation) is strongly recommended. Registration means that when someone calls 999 in your area, the ambulance service dispatcher can direct the caller to your AED while help is on the way, potentially saving vital minutes.

Registration is free and takes only a few minutes at www.thecircuit.uk. You will need the AED's serial number, its exact location and details of the storage arrangement (indoor, outdoor, locked or unlocked cabinet).

Some local ambulance trusts also maintain their own AED registers. Registering with both the Circuit and your local ambulance service is advisable to maximise the chances of the device being identified in an emergency.

Yes. Selfimed UK accepts defibrillators as part-exchange against a new or refurbished purchase, subject to the condition and model of the unit being traded in. We also purchase defibrillators outright from NHS Trusts, ambulance services, businesses and private individuals who are upgrading or decommissioning equipment.

To obtain a part-exchange or purchase valuation, contact our team with the make, model, serial number and approximate age of the device, along with any available service history. We will provide a valuation promptly.

All defibrillators we receive undergo full reconditioning before resale, ensuring they meet the same standards as the rest of our refurbished inventory.

Individual patients with a qualifying chronic illness or disability purchasing eligible medical devices for personal use may claim VAT Relief under Group 12 of Schedule 8 of the Value Added Tax Act 1994. Tick the declaration at checkout to apply the 20% reduction.

Registered charities purchasing defibrillators for charitable purposes may qualify for zero-rating under a separate VAT relief. NHS Trusts and certain other public bodies may also be eligible for VAT relief on clinical equipment purchases.

For institutional or charity orders, contact our team before purchasing to confirm the applicable VAT treatment and to receive a formal quotation with the correct VAT status applied.