Why Does Defibtech Lifeline AED Have 2 Batteries?

If you have the fully or semi-automatic version of the Defibtech Lifeline AED, you may or may not know that it actually has two batteries that need to be maintained. 

If your status indicator shows it’s time for maintenance, simply swapping out the primary battery isn’t always the only solution. Before delving into the intricacies of this device’s battery replacement, let’s begin by revisiting the fundamentals. 

Benefits of Using an AED During an Emergency

If you own an AED device, you may already know AED stands for automated external defibrillator. These lifesaving devices are designed to deliver an electric shock to the heart in cases of sudden cardiac arrest, effectively restoring its normal rhythm. 

The ideal time to shock a sudden cardiac arrest victim with an AED for the best chance of survival is within 3 minutes of their collapse. The quicker the defibrillation, the higher the chance of survival. However, the functionality of an AED depends on proper maintenance of the battery and pads.

What is the Job of the AED Battery?

The essential role a battery plays in an AED is the power source of the device. AED batteries power various functions, including turning on the device, providing energy for self-checks, and delivering life-saving electric shocks when needed. 

When the battery is depleted, typically, your device will notify you. (Note: Relying on your device to notify you that the battery needs replacing is not enough. It’s critical to check your AED regularly.) Your AED battery may need to be replaced if any of the following occurs:

• Your AED is beeping
• Your AED fails self-check
• Your AED has a failing status indicator (red light or mark)
• Your AED does not have enough power to operate 

The life of your AED battery can vary depending on the make and model, but most AED batteries need to be replaced every 2-7 years. 

Defibtech Lifeline Battery  

The Defibtech Lifeline battery has a stand-by life of up to 7 years and is designed to be able to deliver up to 300 shocks or 1600 hours of continuous monitoring and rescue operations. 

Unique Features 

One of the unique features of the Defibtech Lifeline/Lifeline View AED is its dual-battery system. While many AEDs come with one battery piece, the Defibtech Lifeline/Lifeline View has a smaller 9-volt battery that lives inside of the larger primary battery.

The primary battery is what delivers the electric shocks, while the 9-volt battery is the battery that powers self-checks, which means if this battery is depleted, your device may not be able to correctly indicate when attention or maintenance  is needed. You can find this battery on the right side of the device. Simply press the orange release button to remove it. Maintaining both of these batteries and knowing which one to replace helps ensure your device can be a reliable tool when needed.

Expiration Date

An expiration date is on every single Defibtech AED battery and can be found on the manufacturer's label. However, it’s important to keep in mind, that although the primary battery is rated for seven years, the 9-volt battery will need to be replaced once every 6-12 months to prevent any issues with the device’s ability to self-check.  

When To Replace?

On the Defibtech Lifeline device specifically, if either battery needs to be replaced, the AED will chirp, and the status indicator will flash red rather than green. If you would like to determine which battery is causing the alert, simply press the power button down for 2 seconds, and the AED will verbally report whether you need to “replace 9-volt” or “replace battery.” 

Need a new Defibtech Lifeline battery? Shop AED.com for all of your AED maintenance needs. To learn more about your Defibtech device, please find your full product manual here.