Search our FAQs
Search faster, smarter, get your answers quickly!
Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to ZOLL Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). We've compiled answers to the most common questions about choosing, installing, maintaining, and using AEDs. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about these life-saving devices.
Table of Contents
- Understanding AEDs and Their Importance
- Why Choose ZOLL
- Model Comparisons
- Purchase and Package Options
- Installation and Placement
- Registration and Legal Requirements
- Training Options
- Monitoring and Management Software
- Maintenance and Testing
- Emergency Use Procedures
- Post-Event Protocols
- Pricing and Payment Options
- Warranty and Support
ZOLL AED: Complete FAQ Guide
1. Understanding AEDs and Their Importance
Every minute counts during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Research shows survival rates increase dramatically with early intervention:
- Without intervention: 5% survival rate
- With CPR alone: 9% survival rate
- With CPR and AED: 24% survival rate
- School AED programmes: Up to 71% survival rate
Currently, AEDs are only available in 2% of cardiac emergencies, highlighting the critical need for wider deployment.
AEDs work by delivering a controlled electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest. Their effectiveness comes from:
- Immediate availability when seconds count
- Clear voice and visual instructions
- Automated heart rhythm analysis
- Real-time CPR feedback
- Simple, intuitive design for any user
2. Why Choose ZOLL
Key differentiators include:
Infrastructure:
- UK-based office, warehouse and technical support
- Local repairs without international shipping
- Direct manufacturer support rather than distributor model
- FDA PMA accreditation on all models
Technical Features:
- Real CPR Help technology
- Long consumable life (5 years on most pads/batteries)
- Comprehensive self-testing
- Program management options
- Clear rescue protocols
3. Model Comparisons
Best for latest technology:
- Enhanced Real CPR Help with full colour display
- RapidShock Analysis for minimal CPR interruption
- Universal pads for both adults and children
- WiFi connectivity for remote monitoring
- Smart Battery with status reporting
- 5-year pad/battery life
- UK MDR certified
Best for durability and value:
- Enhanced Real CPR Help
- Compression depth indicator
- Industry-leading battery life
- Complete rescue kit included
- One-piece CPR-D-padz design
- 5-year pad/battery life
- UK MDR certified
Best for multilingual environments:
- Real-Time CPR feedback with Intellisense
- One-button language switching
- User-paced rescue prompts
- Automatic self-testing
- USB data download
- Non-polarised pads
- 4-year battery life
- 2-year pad life
- UK MDR certification pending
4. Purchase and Package Options
Essential Components:
- AED device
- Battery
- Adult pads (pediatric where applicable)
- Carry case (model dependent)
- Quick start guide
- Operator manual
Recommended Additions:
- Wall cabinet or bracket
- AED signage package
- Rescue ready kit containing:
- Scissors
- Razor
- Gloves
- Face shield
- Antiseptic wipes
- Towel
Optional Extras:
- Spare battery
- Spare pads
- Training unit
- Premium carry case
- Data management software
- WiFi connectivity module (where applicable)
5. Installation and Placement
Location Requirements:
- Within 200 metres or 2 minutes' brisk walk
- Mounted 1-1.35 metres from ground (to cabinet bottom)
- Near safe parking space
- Well-lit area
- Clear line of sight
- Good mobile signal for 999 calls
- Accessible 24/7 where possible
Options and Requirements:
- Heated, vandal-resistant cabinet for outdoor locations (IP65 rated)
- Material options:
- Mild steel (only for areas 5+ miles from sea, sheltered locations)
- Stainless steel (suitable for coastal areas)
- luminium
- Polycarbonate
- Thermostatically controlled heating
- Internal lighting and indicator lamps
- Locked or unlocked based on risk assessment
- Professional installation required
Required Signage:
- Universal ILCOR AED sign (ISO 7010 compliant)
- Directional signs
- Location information:
- Postcode
- what3words location
- Guardian contact details
- Access instructions if applicable
6. Registration and Legal Requirements
Yes, registration on The Circuit (www.thecircuit.uk) is essential:
Required Information:
- Exact location details (postcode and what3words)
- Access information (including cabinet codes)
- Guardian contact details
- Opening hours/availability
- AED make, model and serial number
- Pad and battery expiry dates
The Circuit provides:
- Connection to NHS ambulance services
- Automatic notifications for maintenance
- Updates if your AED is used
- Reminders for pad/battery expiration
Under the Social Action, Responsibility and Heroism (SARAH) Act 2015:
Protection covers:
- Anyone acting for society's benefit
- Those showing responsible safety approach
- People acting heroically in emergencies
- Both trained and untrained rescuers
Courts must consider:
- Emergency situation nature
- Intent to help someone in danger
- Responsible approach to assistance
7. Training Options
Current Options:
- User videos and tutorials
- Web-based training course (coming soon) covering:
- Heart function basics
- Understanding sudden cardiac arrest
- How defibrillators work
- Device familiarisation
- Assessment quiz
On-site Training:
- Maximum 12 participants
- 3-4 hour duration
- Choice of:
- Accredited certification
- Attendance certificate
- Bespoke courses available
- Pricing on application
Our training platform provides:
- Digital completion records
- Email verification
- Training status tracking
- Annual refresher management
- Compliance documentation
8. Monitoring and Management Software
PlusTrac:
- Web-based monitoring system
- Tracks device status and self-checks
- Monitors pad/battery expiry
- Manages training records
- Email maintenance alerts
- Suitable for single or multiple devices
AIVIAnet:
- Real-time device monitoring
- Web-based dashboard
- Email/text alerts
- Statistical reporting
- Event record keeping
- Multi-language support
- Configuration of alert features
9. Maintenance and Testing
Daily Checks:
- Status indicator shows "ready"
- Unit clean and undamaged
- No visible issues
- Cabinet access clear
Monthly Checks:
- Document status indicator
- Verify cabinet/mounting security
- Clean exterior if needed
- Check pad and battery expiry dates
- Verify rescue kit complete
- Test cabinet alarms if fitted
Annual Checks:
- Full operational check (PlusCare service)
- Update emergency protocols
- Review guardian details
- Verify Circuit registration
- Complete documentation
- Review training needs
Green ✓:
- Unit ready for use
- All systems functional
- No action required
Red X with "Maintenance Required":
- Check pad expiration (American date format)
- Check battery indicator lights
- Contact support if:
- Pads expired
- ≤1 green battery light
Red X with "Service Required":
Provide:
- Photo of open unit
- Unit serial number
- Battery serial number and manufacture date
- Pad expiry dates
10. Emergency Use Procedures
1. Call 999
2. Ambulance service will:
- Direct to nearest AED
- Provide cabinet access code
- Guide through CPR and AED use
3. AED can be collected and used
4. Circuit automatically notifies guardian
11. Post-Event Protocols
Immediate Steps:
- Replace pads immediately
- Clean device with antibacterial wipes
- Check status indicator
- Return to storage location
- Replace used rescue kit items
Guardian Responsibilities:
- Locate and retrieve AED
- Check unit status
- Replace consumables
- Return to service
- Update Circuit status
Support Available (PlusCare):
- Post-rescue support sessions
- Clinical support
- Data download assistance
- Documentation help
- Professional debrief
12. Pricing and Payment Options
- Card, Apple Pay, PayPal, or BACS
- 30-day terms (approved accounts)
- Leasing options for multiple units
- Annual price updates (March/April)
- Pad replacements:
- AED Plus/AED 3: Every 5 years
- G5: Every 2 years
- Battery replacements:
- AED Plus/AED 3: Every 5 years
- G5: Every 4 years
- Optional software renewals
- Optional PlusCare service
- Immediate pad replacement if used
13. Warranty and Support
ZOLL AED warranty periods:
- AED Plus: 5 years + 2 years extended (7 total)
- AED 3: 6 years + 2 years extended (8 total)
- G5: 6 years + 2 years extended (8 total)
Contact options:
- Email: sales@defibexperts.co.uk
- Technical support
- Clinical support
- Training assistance
- Maintenance help