Choosing the right Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for your facility is a critical decision. This comprehensive guide will help you select the perfect AED based on your specific needs, budget, and environment.

Why Your Facility Needs an AED

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, anytime. With an AED on-site, you can:

• Increase survival rates from 10% to 70%+ when used within 3-5 minutes
• Comply with OSHA and state regulations
• Protect employees, customers, and visitors
• Reduce liability and demonstrate duty of care

Key Factors to Consider

1. Environment & Usage

Indoor vs Outdoor: Will your AED be in a climate-controlled environment or exposed to temperature extremes?

• Indoor facilities: Any AED will work well
• Outdoor/harsh environments: Choose rugged models like Philips FRx or ZOLL AED 3 with high IP ratings

2. User Experience Level

Trained vs Untrained Users:

• Untrained users: Fully automatic AEDs (no shock button to press)
• Trained responders: Semi-automatic AEDs offer more control
• Public access: Choose models with clear voice prompts and visual guides

3. Special Populations

Will you need to treat children or infants?

• Look for models with pediatric capability (child mode or pediatric pads)
• Some AEDs like ZOLL AED 3 use the same pads for all ages
• Schools and daycare facilities should prioritize pediatric-ready units

4. Advanced Features

CPR Feedback: Real-time guidance on compression depth and rate

WiFi Connectivity: Automatic readiness checks and notifications

Data Recording: Event data for medical and legal documentation

Popular AED Models Compared

Best Overall: ZOLL AED 3

Premium features, real CPR feedback, WiFi monitoring, 8-year warranty

View ZOLL AED 3

Best Value: Cardiac Science G5

Excellent reliability, RescueCoach technology, great for public access

View G5

Best for Harsh Environments: Philips HeartStart FRx

Military-grade ruggedness, works in extreme temperatures, life form ECG

View FRx

Most Affordable: HeartSine Samaritan PAD 450P

Lightweight, long battery life, low cost of ownership, CPR feedback

View 450P

Total Cost of Ownership

Don't just look at upfront cost. Consider:

• Pad lifespan: 2-5 years (HeartSine Pad-Pak lasts 4 years)
• Battery life: 4-7 years standby
• Warranty: 5-8 years (ZOLL offers 8 years)
• Maintenance: Some models offer automated readiness checks

Installation & Placement

The 3-Minute Rule: Place AEDs within a 3-minute round-trip from any location in your facility.

Recommended locations:

• Near main entrances and lobbies
• Fitness centers and gyms
• Large meeting rooms or auditoriums
• High-traffic hallways
• Near high-risk areas (heavy physical activity)

Training & Maintenance

Training: While AEDs are designed for untrained users, we recommend CPR/AED certification for designated responders.

Maintenance: Monthly visual checks, track expiration dates, test regularly.

Compliance Requirements

Requirements vary by state and industry. Check your state's specific AED laws:

View State AED Laws

Get Expert Help

Still not sure which AED is right for you? Our team of experts can help you assess your needs and recommend the perfect solution.

Contact Our AED Experts

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