We’ve had several HeartSine AED owners ask the same thing recently: 

“My Pad-Pak is approaching, or has just passed, its expiry date. With current supply issues, what does that mean for my defibrillator today?”

This update explains how HeartSine Pad-Pak expiry dates work, what the AED itself monitors, and how many sites are managing this responsibly while replacement stock remains limited.

What the Pad-Pak expiry date covers

Each HeartSine Pad-Pak has a single expiry date. This applies to both the internal battery and the electrode pads supplied as a combined unit.

The expiry date represents the manufacturer’s guaranteed shelf life when the Pad-Pak is stored under defined conditions. It is not a programmed switch-off point, and the AED does not automatically become non-functional when that date is reached.

What the AED status indicator tells you

HeartSine AEDs carry out regular self-tests to monitor system readiness, including battery voltage.

If the status indicator is showing green and there are no audible alerts, the device is passing its self-checks. If battery voltage falls below safe operating limits, or if a fault is detected, the AED will provide a visual or audible warning.

The device is therefore continuously monitoring its ability to function.

Managing Pad-Pak expiry during a supply backlog

Global supply issues have affected the availability of some HeartSine Pad-Paks. During periods like this, many organisations are taking a measured, risk-managed approach until replacement stock becomes available.

This commonly includes:

  • Keeping the existing Pad-Pak installed where the AED shows a green status indicator

  • Carrying out regular visual checks

  • Documenting expiry dates and known supply delays

  • Placing replacement Pad-Paks on back-order and fitting them as soon as stock arrives

This approach helps ensure AEDs are not unnecessarily taken out of service while maintaining appropriate oversight.

Why monitoring and documentation matter

For many AED owners, the challenge is not the expiry date itself, but being left to interpret it without practical context, particularly during supply disruption.

Clear monitoring, routine checks, and accurate records allow potential issues to be identified early and managed calmly, rather than reactively.

Support and aftercare

As part of our AED aftercare support, we help sites monitor device status, consumable dates, and manufacturer notices so issues are identified early and managed appropriately.

If you have questions about your AED’s status or would like support keeping your equipment rescue-ready, you can contact us for advice.