Why test your AED?

09 March 2026

Having a working AED nearby in an emergency can save a life.

In the event of a sudden cardiac arrest, an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can deliver a shock to help restore a normal heart rhythm. Used quickly alongside CPR, an AED can dramatically increase a person’s chance of survival.

But simply installing a defibrillator isn’t enough. Like any piece of life-saving equipment, an AED needs to be regularly checked and maintained to ensure it will work when it’s needed most.

A global push for better access

Around the world, governments are recognising the importance of public access defibrillators.

In a world-leading move, South Australia has now made defibrillators mandatory in many public facilities, including schools, sporting venues, and other high-traffic locations. The goal is simple: make life-saving equipment easier to find and use when every second matters.

As awareness grows, more communities and organisations are taking steps to ensure AEDs are available and properly maintained.

Cardiac arrest in New Zealand

Every year in Aotearoa New Zealand, more than 2,400 people experience a cardiac arrest outside of hospital.

When a cardiac arrest occurs, every minute counts. Without CPR or defibrillation, a person’s chance of survival can drop by 10–15% for every minute that passes.

Early defibrillation can significantly improve survival rates. When a bystander uses an AED before emergency services arrive, a patient’s chances of survival more than double.

That’s why having a working, accessible AED nearby is so important.

Why testing your AED matters

An AED may sit unused for months or even years, but when it’s needed, it must work immediately. Regular testing and checks help ensure your device is ready in an emergency.

Key reasons to test your AED include:

1. Confirming the device is operational
Routine checks ensure the AED powers on correctly and performs its self-tests without errors.

2. Checking pads and batteries
Defibrillator pads and batteries have expiry dates. If they’re expired or damaged, the AED may not function when needed.

3. Ensuring visibility and accessibility
Regular checks are a good opportunity to confirm the AED is clearly signposted and accessible in an emergency.

4. Meeting compliance and safety responsibilities
Many workplaces and public facilities include AEDs as part of their health and safety planning. Testing helps demonstrate the device is properly maintained.

Supporting AED readiness

At Heart Saver, we help businesses, schools, organisations and communities across New Zealand ensure their defibrillators are ready to respond in an emergency.

From AED supply and installation to replacement pads and batteries, regular checks, and ongoing support, our goal is simple: make sure every AED works when it’s needed most.

Because when cardiac arrest strikes, there is no time to troubleshoot equipment. There is only time to act.

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An AED is life-saving equipment that must be regularly tested to ensure it works when it’s needed most. Following South Australia’s recent move to make defibrillators and routine testing mandatory in many public facilities, we explore why maintaining a ready-to-use AED is essential for safer communities.
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