AED Cost Guide: Pricing, Hidden Fees & Total Cost of Ownership
Expert guidance from firefighter/paramedics
Learn more about our complete AED selection or read our AED buying guide.Understanding the true cost of AED ownership goes beyond the initial purchase price. This comprehensive guide breaks down all costs so you can budget accurately.
AED Purchase Prices by Model
Budget-Friendly AEDs ($1,200-$1,600)
- HeartSine Samaritan PAD 350P: $1,295 - Basic, reliable, low maintenance
- HeartSine Samaritan PAD 360P: $1,395 - Adds CPR coaching
- HeartSine Samaritan PAD 450P: $1,595 - CPR feedback + metrics
Mid-Range AEDs ($1,800-$2,200)
- ZOLL AED Plus: $1,895 - Real CPR Help, proven track record
- Cardiac Science G5: $2,157 - RescueCoach technology
- Philips HeartStart FRx: $2,095 - Rugged, military-grade
Premium AEDs ($2,400-$2,800)
- ZOLL AED 3: $2,695 - WiFi monitoring, advanced CPR feedback
- Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR2: $2,795 - Dual-language, cprINSIGHT
Ongoing Costs: The 5-Year View
Replacement Pads
- Standard pads: $50-$100 every 2-3 years
- Pediatric pads: $75-$125 every 2-3 years
- HeartSine Pad-Pak: $135 every 4 years (includes battery)
- ZOLL CPR-D pads: $145 every 5 years
Batteries
- Non-rechargeable: $200-$400 every 4-7 years
- Rechargeable: $300-$500 every 2-4 years
- Note: HeartSine Pad-Pak combines battery + pads
Training Costs
- Per-person CPR/AED certification: $50-$150
- On-site group training: $500-$1,500 (10-20 people)
- Annual refreshers: $30-$75 per person
Accessories & Storage
- Wall cabinet (basic): $100-$200
- Wall cabinet (alarmed): $300-$500
- Outdoor cabinet (heated/cooled): $800-$1,500
- AED signage: $10-$50
- Rescue kit: $20-$40
Total 5-Year Cost Comparison
| Model | Initial | 5-Year Cost | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| HeartSine 450P | $1,595 | $1,865 | $373 |
| Cardiac Science G5 | $2,157 | $2,807 | $561 |
| ZOLL AED 3 | $2,695 | $3,140 | $628 |
Hidden Costs to Consider
- Registration fees: Usually free, but some states charge
- Compliance audits: $0-$500 depending on industry
- Post-use replacement: Pads must be replaced after any use
- Staff time: Monthly inspections take 5-10 minutes
Ways to Reduce Costs
1. Choose Low-Maintenance Models
HeartSine Pad-Pak systems combine battery and pads, reducing tracking complexity and replacement frequency.
2. Buy Complete Packages
Package deals that include cabinet, signage, and training often save 10-15%.
3. Look for Long Warranties
ZOLL offers 8-year warranties vs industry standard 5 years, reducing replacement costs.
4. Consider WiFi Monitoring
ZOLL AED 3's automated readiness checks eliminate manual inspection time.
5. Group Training
On-site group training costs $50-75 per person vs $120-150 for individual classes.
Financing Options
- Outright purchase: Best long-term value
- Leasing: $40-$100/month spreads cost
- Grants: Heart associations and local programs offer funding
- Tax deductions: AEDs may qualify as business expense
ROI: The Value Beyond Cost
While AEDs represent an expense, consider:
- Life saved: Priceless value
- Liability reduction: Demonstrates duty of care
- Insurance benefits: Some policies offer discounts
- Employee confidence: Improves safety culture
- Regulatory compliance: Avoids fines and penalties
Get a Custom Quote
Every facility has unique needs. We'll help you find the most cost-effective solution for your specific situation.