AED pads are the single most expensive and operationally consequential consumable in an AED program. Most missed pad replacements happen because nobody set a calendar reminder, and most failed rescues attributable to consumables are pad-related, not battery-related. The pad expiration date is the date the AED program lives or dies.
Quick answer
AED electrode pads are adhesive patches that transmit electrical energy from the AED to the patient. Standard adult pads expire every 2 years and cost $25–$130 per set. ZOLL CPR-D-padz last 5 years — the longest available. HeartSine Pad-Pak combines a battery and pads for 4 years. Replace pads immediately after any rescue use, even if no shock was delivered.
What AED pads actually do
The pads serve three functions: detect the patient’s electrical activity for rhythm analysis, transmit shock energy from the AED to the patient’s heart, and on ZOLL devices, measure compression depth and rate via embedded accelerometers. The adhesive surface must make full contact with bare skin for any of these functions to work.
Adult vs pediatric pads and placement
Adult pads deliver ~150–200 joule shock energy. Pediatric pads (or pediatric mode on universal pads) deliver ~50 joules — appropriate for patients under 8 years or under 55 lbs per American Red Cross guidance.
| Patient | Pad type | Placement | Energy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult / 8+ years / 55+ lbs | Standard adult pads | Upper right chest + lower left side | ~150–200 joules |
| Child under 8 / under 55 lbs | Pediatric pads OR adult pads with pediatric mode | One front (mid-chest) + one back (between shoulder blades) | ~50 joules |
| Infant under 1 / under 22 lbs | Pediatric pads | Front + back placement | ~50 joules (or per device guidance) |
Shelf life by model
| Pad type | Shelf life | Replacement cost | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZOLL CPR-D-padz | 5 years | ~$130 | Longest shelf life on the market |
| ZOLL Uni-padz | 5 years | ~$165 | Universal (adult + pediatric) |
| HeartSine Pad-Pak | 4 years | ~$120 | Combined battery + pads |
| Philips SMART Pads II (FRx) | 2 years | ~$60 | Standard 2-year cycle |
| Philips SMART Pads (OnSite) | 2 years | ~$50 | Standard 2-year cycle |
| LIFEPAK QUIK-STEP | 2 years | ~$150 | Adult pads |
| Cardiac Science Intellisense pads | 2 years | ~$80–$200 | Standard vs ICPR option |
| Defibtech DDP-100A (adult) | 2 years | ~$60 | Standard 2-year cycle |
The Pad-Pak economics advantage
HeartSine’s Pad-Pak combines battery and electrode pads into a single 4-year cartridge. Buyers track one expiration date instead of two. Total consumables cost over 5 years: ~$120 for one Pad-Pak replacement. Compared to a Philips OnSite over 5 years: ~$100 in pads (2 replacements) + ~$100 battery + ~$170 pediatric cartridge if applicable.
For single-AED programs without dedicated AED program management, the Pad-Pak simplicity is operationally meaningful.
After rescue use — always replace
Pads must be replaced immediately after any rescue use, even if no shock was delivered. The adhesive surface contacts patient skin and is contaminated even with no shock cycle. Most authorized distributors offer replacement-after-use programs that ship replacement pads within 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
How much do AED pads cost?
$25–$130 per set, depending on brand. Standard 2-year pads run $25–$75. HeartSine Pad-Pak combines a battery + pads for $90–$130 and lasts 4 years.
What’s the longest shelf life for AED pads?
ZOLL CPR-D-padz at 5 years. Used with the ZOLL AED Plus.
Are pediatric pads required for daycares?
Yes, for any facility serving children under 8. Either separate pediatric pads or universal pads with pediatric mode.
Do I need to replace pads after every use?
Yes. Even if no shock was delivered, the adhesive surface is contaminated, and pads must be replaced.
Where do I buy replacement pads?
From the authorized distributor that supplied the AED — AED Leader or Response Ready. Avoid gray-market pads (compatibility and authenticity not guaranteed).
Can I use one brand’s pads on another brand’s AED?
No. Pads are model-specific. Using incompatible pads will not work and may damage the device.
Pediatric-first AED procurement
The free quiz routes daycare-profile buyers to the right pediatric-capable model.
Sources
- AHA — CPR + AED guidance
- American Red Cross — Pediatric AED guidance
- Manufacturer specifications — Philips, ZOLL, HeartSine, LIFEPAK, Cardiac Science, Defibtech
Educational content. Pricing reflects 2026 authorized distributor reference points.
