Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) have become an invaluable life-saving device, becoming more prevalent throughout public places like airports, sports stadiums, and shopping malls in recent years. AEDs help restart heartbeats during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), making them vital pieces of equipment in public settings. The AED must have a reliable power source to deliver a life-saving shock. AEDs are powered by batteries, and several different kinds of AED batteries are available.
What are AED Batteries Made of?
Lithium batteries are the most common type of battery used in AEDs. Lithium batteries are known for their high energy density, meaning they can store a large amount of energy in a small, lightweight package. This is crucial for AEDs, as they need to be small and portable for easy transport and use during emergencies. In addition, lithium batteries have a low self-discharge rate, which means they can retain their charge for extended periods, making them reliable when needed most. However, it's important to note that lithium batteries require special handling and disposal due to their chemical properties and should only be replaced with batteries recommended by the AED manufacturer.
Rechargeable VS Non Rechargeable AED Batteries
The battery is an essential component of an AED, as it powers the device and enables it to perform life-saving functions. Two types of lithium batteries are used in AEDs: rechargeable and non-rechargeable. Primary lithium batteries should only ever be used once before being discarded; rechargeable ones, on the other hand, can be recharged multiple times, saving money over time as you can reuse them multiple times before discarding them. Rechargeable batteries can be more expensive upfront but can save money in the long run because they can be reused.
Rechargeable AED Batteries
Rechargeable AED batteries are built to be charged multiple times before needing replacement. These batteries are typically made of lithium-ion with an approximate lifespan of three years or 300 charge cycles, whichever comes first. Rechargeable AED batteries have their own set of both advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
- Cost-effective: Rechargeable AED batteries tend to be more cost-effective over time because they can be recharged and reused multiple times without needing frequent replacement.
- Environmentally friendly: Rechargeable batteries can reduce waste by being reused multiple times, helping reduce landfill emissions. Rechargeable AED batteries offer convenience as they can be charged using either wall outlets, car chargers, or portable battery packs.
Cons:
- Limited lifespan: While rechargeable AED batteries may be charged and used multiple times, their lifespan typically only lasts three years or 300 charge cycles.
- Dependence on Charging: AED batteries must be charged regularly, which means that they must be kept charged at all times, making them less convenient than their non-rechargeable counterparts. Consider a backup battery so your AED is always ready, regardless of if your other AED batteries are charging.
- Maintenance: Rechargeable batteries are more prone to being damaged by high temperatures or overcharging, which can shorten their lifespan significantly. They also require more maintenance, like checking battery status often and charging frequently.
Non-Rechargeable AED Batteries
Non-rechargeable AED batteries are intended to be used just once and then disposed of, with their lifespan typically being three to five years.
Pros:
- Long lifespan: Non-rechargeable AED batteries have an estimated three to five-year lifespan, making them both reliable and cost-effective solutions.
- Low Maintenance: Non-rechargeable AED batteries offer less dependence on regular charging, making them suitable for long-term storage before being deployed when necessary.
Cons:
- Cost: On the downside, however, non-rechargeable AED batteries may prove more costly over time since they must be replaced after each use.
- Not Environmentally Friendly: Most non-rechargeable AED batteries cannot be recycled and end up in landfills, contributing to pollution on our planet.
- Less Convenient: Non-rechargeable AED batteries must be replenished after each use, meaning an AED must always have an ample supply of batteries on hand.
Both rechargeable and non-rechargeable AED batteries offer their own set of advantages and disadvantages, so ultimately, the decision between these types of batteries depends on your unique circumstances and needs. A rechargeable AED may provide cost savings while still meeting environmental concerns; for those seeking reliability and durability, a non-rechargeable option may be the better choice. Whichever AED battery option you select, ensure to always replace it according to manufacturer instructions so your AED is always ready when you need it.
Standby Life VS Shelf Life
AED batteries have two separate dates that are important to monitor. The shelf life refers to the time the battery can sit before being installed into the AED; this is also sometimes referred to as the “install by date.” The standby life refers to the amount of time the AED battery will last once installed in the AED.
AED Battery Replacement
Most AEDs have easy-to-replace battery compartments. Some models even have video or voice instructions to help guide you through the process. To replace your AED battery, simply release the old battery and replace it with a new AED battery until it clicks into place. Check the device after to ensure the battery is placed properly and the device is ready for any emergency.
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) have become essential life-saving devices in public places, making reliable power sources a must for their effectiveness. AED batteries play a critical role in this technology by providing enough juice during an emergency to perform vital life-saving functions - lithium cells being popular choices due to their high energy density, low self-discharge rate, and lightweight construction. When replacing AED batteries, it's crucial that they're handled or disposed of according to manufacturer specifications, as improper handling can pose a significant environmental risk. AED batteries come in two varieties: rechargeable and non-rechargeable - rechargeable is more cost-effective over time and environmentally friendly. Still, it requires more maintenance, while non-rechargeable AED batteries are more convenient but may be more costly. Keep in mind that both rechargeable and non-rechargeable AED batteries present unique advantages and drawbacks to consider when selecting the right AED battery type for you. By choosing the appropriate AED battery type, you can ensure these lifesaving devices will always be there when we need them.