Can AEDs Be Recycled? What to Do With an Expired or Retired Device

When an automated external defibrillator (AED) reaches the end of its supported service life, organizations need to determine how to handle the retired equipment. Batteries, electrode pads, and electronic components require careful consideration rather than simply throwing the entire unit away. At AED One-Stop Shop, we offer a recycling program that helps organizations manage eligible retired devices. Understanding AED recycling can help businesses plan equipment upgrades and follow the appropriate shipping and handling instructions.

Recognize When an AED Needs Replacement

An expired battery or electrode pad does not automatically mean the entire AED must be retired. However, an older device may become difficult to maintain when compatible supplies or manufacturer support are no longer available. We encourage organizations to check the device model, manufacturer guidance, and replacement component availability before deciding whether to replace the unit. Our website discusses older models, including the HeartStream ForeRunner, HeartStart FR1, and FR2 series as examples of devices that may have reached the end of their supported service life.

Understand Which AED Components to Send

Retiring an AED may involve more than the device itself. Our recycling instructions explain which components customers can include and which items are generally unnecessary to ship. Customers commonly send the AED, carrying case, and batteries, while electrode pads, paperwork, discs, cords, and rescue kits are typically left out to reduce shipping weight. Before preparing a shipment, we recommend contacting an AED consultant to confirm which items are appropriate for your specific device and AED recycling request.

Follow the AED Recycling Shipping Instructions

We ask customers to contact an AED consultant before shipping equipment so we can provide the designated address and explain the program requirements. Customers are responsible for shipping charges, but our program does not charge additional processing or disposal fees. Shipments containing lithium batteries must follow the program’s ground shipping instructions. Battery packs must be protected against short circuits and physical damage, and boxes containing batteries must follow the applicable labeling requirements. We recommend confirming the current packaging and labeling instructions with our team before sending a shipment.

Check Whether Your AED Is Eligible

Our AED recycling program accepts many major AED brands, including LIFEPAK, Philips HeartStart, ZOLL, Defibtech, Cardiac Science Powerheart, Physio-Control, Medtronic, Welch Allyn, Cintas, and Laerdal. However, eligibility should be confirmed before shipping, particularly if your device is an older model or is not included in our published examples. We help customers understand the next steps for their equipment and explain how to proceed through our AED recycling program.

Plan for Your Replacement AED

When retiring an AED, we recommend planning for replacement equipment before removing the existing unit from service. Consider the replacement device, compatible batteries and electrode pads, storage location, and procedures for checking readiness. Organizations managing multiple devices should also review their inventory to identify other AEDs that may need replacement supplies or manufacturer support. Planning ahead helps keep equipment management organized while supporting continued emergency preparedness.

Contact AED One-Stop Shop for Guidance

At AED One-Stop Shop, we help customers navigate the retirement process for eligible AED equipment and understand the requirements of our AED recycling program. We can explain which components to send, clarify packaging instructions, and provide the appropriate shipping information. Contact us at 1-855-677-2337 or Sales@AEDOneStopShop.com before shipping your device so we can help you determine the appropriate next steps.