Should I Buy a New or Refurbished AED?
Explaining the difference between new and used AEDs.
Costs play a major role in the purchasing process of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Many businesses may be hesitant to invest in an AED due to the commitment to ongoing costs that come after the initial payment for the device.
Pads, batteries, and maintenance services add up quickly, which is why a set budget should be made to take care of your device to help ensure it’s always ready for rescue. Even if you are not ready to commit, some states require AEDs to be on-site, leaving no other option but to invest. Luckily, there’s an option for those looking for a low-cost alternative – refurbished AEDs.
New Vs. Refurbished AED Device Analysis
New AED | Refurbished AED | |
Price | Higher Price Range $1,300-$3,000 | More Affordable Option $600-$900 |
Warranty Coverage (length)* | 5 to 8 years through manufacturer | 3 years through AEDSuperstore |
Voltage Output (device function) | Full | Full through the AEDSuperstore refurbishing process |
Accessories | New AED pads & batteries | Updated to have new AED pads & batteries |
Technology | Latest technological advancements | Updated to have the latest technological advancements |
* If you purchase an AED with limited or no warranty, you are responsible for repairs or possible new purchases in the event the AED stops working as intended.
What is the difference between a new AED vs. a refurbished AED?
Refurbished AEDs, or pre-owned AEDs, are devices that have been used by previous customers. These devices have either been traded in from customers, were used as demo units for our sales teams, or come from an equipment buyback program.
All our refurbished devices go through a 10-point process before being sold to customers to help ensure the AED machine not only looks brand-new but is functioning at industry standards. New AEDs, on the other hand, have never been removed from the box or put into service. Both new and refurbished devices from AEDSuperstore include all new pads and batteries.
The following factors may play a role in whether or not you choose a new AED or recertified AED:
Price
When budgeting for an AED, buyers sometimes forget to examine the ongoing maintenance costs. Replacing AED batteries and electrode pads is crucial as these items have expiration dates.
However, the pricing of these items adds up, making it hard to make a large investment upfront. Refurbished AEDs can be significantly lower in price, ranging anywhere from $600-$900, while a new device can range anywhere from $1,300-$3,000.
Warranty
The majority of AED warranties come with coverage that lasts approximately 5-8 years from the manufacturer. However, when purchasing a refurbished AED, the warranty may not be transferable and will only cover the original purchaser. Why is this important? If you purchase an AED with limited or no warranty, you are responsible for repairs or possible new purchases in the event the AED stops working as intended.
Not to worry, at AEDSuperstore, every refurbished or pre-owned AED available comes with a 3-year warranty, so you can have peace of mind that you’re covered if anything does go wrong with your device.
Voltage Output
A common concern you may have when purchasing a refurbished AED is whether or not the joule output quality is just as good as a new AED. Recertified AEDs can still deliver the same voltage level quality as a new AED if the device you choose has been through a thorough recertification process.
We make it our goal to ensure the joule output is within FDA guidelines. To do this, during the 10-point certification process, each device is connected to a Fluke Impulse 7000 defibrillator that tests the voltage level to ensure it’s up to standards. When you purchase a recertified AED from AEDSuperstore, you’ll get this helpful documentation verifying the AED has passed this quality check.
Accessories
Manufacturers over the years tend to discontinue replacement parts for old AED models. To avoid the risk of not finding the battery or pad you need to keep your device going, opt for a “newer” refurbished AED model. It may be worth considering how long you’d like your AED purchase to last and if you’d be willing to purchase a new one down the road.
If you are on the fence, buying a new AED that will have replacement parts available longer than an older model will be more money upfront but may save you money in the long run. However, if you are a start-up business with a low budget, a refurbished AED is a great option to get you started for a couple of years until you can save up for a new device.
Technology
Investing in a brand-new AED means having access to all of the newest technology. Many new models include color screen displays, Wi-Fi capabilities, real-time data monitoring, and remote assistance. This may be intriguing if you are in an industry that could really benefit from these advancements.
For example, emergency medical service or transportation industries may be traveling in remote areas and need access to Wi-Fi and remote monitoring capability. On the other hand, chaotic environments like stadiums or parks could benefit from large colored screen displays that can help clearly guide rescuers when an emergency arises in a loud environment where visuals are the only guidance available.
It’s important to understand that even if refurbished AEDs don’t have all the latest technology, they do receive the most recent software update during their 10-point recertification process.
What is the AEDSuperstore® 10-point recertification process?
You’ve decided to choose the refurbished AED over a new device but aren’t sure what happens to make your used device as good as new – You’re in the right place!
AEDSuperstore puts each device through a 10-point recertification process. This process includes cleaning, replacement of parts, testing self-checks, software updating, and so much more! Each device is handled by in-house, manufacturer-trained biomed technicians during the entire recertification process to not only look brand-new but function as a new device as well.
Regardless if you choose a new or refurbished AED, you are still choosing to be prepared. Both devices serve as a tool that can help make a difference and even save a life.
Still have questions? Don’t hesitate to call us at 800-419-5620 or fill out our contact us form, and an AEDSuperstore team member will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
A. Refurbished AEDs can come from sales demo units, trade-ins, or equipment buyback programs.
A. Someone who doesn’t need the features that come with the newer AEDs or someone who is looking for an AED on a low budget.
A. Refurbished AEDs can be significantly lower in price, ranging anywhere from $600-$900, while a new device can range anywhere from $1,300-$3,000.
A. The AED recertification process not only makes each device look brand-new but helps it function just like a new device, too. The recertification process involves installing new accessories, performing a maintenance service on the device, checking the device’s joule output is within FDA standards, upgrading to align with current AHA guidelines, and visually checking/thoroughly cleaning before being packaged.
A. At AEDSuperstore, each device is handled by in-house, manufacturer-trained biomed technicians during the entire recertification process.
September 06, 2019 at 9:46 pm, Dale Koonce said:
I’m interested in either renting or purchasing a refurbished aed. Please let me know your pricing
September 09, 2019 at 6:47 am, AED Superstore said:
We do not rent AEDs, but if you are interested in purchasing a refurbished AED you can check out our website at https://www.aedoutlet.com/ or call us at 877-233-4911. Thank you.
September 24, 2019 at 2:11 pm, Chris Bauer said:
Is there a place to sell AED machines that the warranty has expired?
September 24, 2019 at 2:25 pm, AED Superstore said:
Offhand, we do not know of any establishment who buys used AEDs. However, depending on the model, being out of warranty isn’t necessarily the end-of-life for the AED. As long as electrode pads and batteries are available, that AED could still save lives as long as it is kept up to date on those supplies. If you still want to get rid of your AED, perhaps you could donate it to a local school, church, scout troop, nursing home, etc.
August 20, 2021 at 7:56 pm, Chris Hoyler said:
My church as a Cardiac Science Powerheart G3 AED, which purchased in April, 2007. I can still purchase Cardiac Science pads and batteries for these units, but the battery may be an after market part. Is it safe to use these parts?
Thanks for your advice,
Chris Hoyler
(she/her)
September 23, 2021 at 7:36 am, AED Superstore said:
Hi Chris,
Our recommendation is always to use manufacturer-approved parts in order to guarantee your AED is ready to rescue in the event of a sudden cardiac arrest emergency. If you are interested in upgrading your G3, please call our customer service department as we have a trade-in program which could greatly help you with the cost.
September 02, 2021 at 11:34 am, Gary said:
I’m looking to purchase for to six refurbished Phillips AED machines. I’m involved in a senior men’s softball league and we have 12 machines currently looking for more machines. What would be the price of each unit. Thank you Gary
September 16, 2021 at 11:34 am, AED Superstore said:
HI Gary – give our customer service department a call at 10-800-544-0048 and they can help you get the units you are looking for.
August 15, 2023 at 11:27 am, Nadine Maynard said:
DO YOU SHIP INTERNATIONALLY?
September 06, 2023 at 9:54 am, AED Superstore said:
Please send your request to [email protected]. Thank you.
February 07, 2024 at 1:37 pm, Celebrities said:
Sustain the excellent work and producing in the group!