Everything You Need to Know About Your AED’s Operating Temperature

 

You may not know that your AED has a specific operating temperature. Each manufacturer lists an operating temperature range and a standby temperature range that determines what degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius your device should be used/stored at.

 

 

More specifically, the operating temperature is the temperature range at which your device performs best when in use. It’s important to store or use your device at the correct temperature to maximize the life of your AED pads and batteries. 

What are the effects of extreme temperatures on my AED? 

Just as too hot or cold environments can harm our bodies, harsh weather climates can also harm our AEDs. 

 

What Happens to AEDs in Extreme Heat?

 

The circuitry can melt, causing the device to malfunction or, worse, not start during an emergency. In some cases, exposure to extreme heat can also deplete the lifespan of the lithium battery that lives within your device. 

 

Standard Dangerous Heat Range: Any temperature over 122 °F or -50 °C

 

What Happens to AEDs in Below Freezing Cold?

 

Similarly, extreme cold temperatures can drain your battery just as quickly. Another primary concern with freezing temperatures is frozen electrode pads. When pads freeze, the film revealing the sticky adhesive side may be frozen, or the adhesive could lose its stickiness altogether, preventing rescuers from attaching the electrode pads to the victim. 

 

In worst-case scenarios, freezing temperatures enable the device to be turned on, which is not ideal during an emergency where a victim needs to be revived.  

 

Standard Dangerous Freezing Range: Any temperature below 32 °F or 0 °C

 

Read More about Weather Conditions and Your AED Here

 

What is the Standard Operating Temperature for my AED? 

While most devices can be operated with a standard 32° to 122 °F range, it’s important to consider the standby or storage temperature, considering it will most likely be stored on a shelf or in a wall cabinet 99% of the time unless you are a first responder or paramedic.

As mentioned, the operating temperature is designed to provide a temperature range, allowing the AED to function correctly during actual use. The standby or storage temperature dictates how the AED should be kept when not in use. Consider conditions like whether or not your AED will sit in direct sunlight or in a cabinet, car, or storage bin that may exceed the temperature it says outside. 

 

Some manufacturers also provide a transportation temperature for specification on temperature ranges when your device is on the go.  

 

What temperature should my specific AED machine be stored at? 

 

 

AEDSuperstore Tips for AED Temperature Management 

AEDSuperstore is here to help give our recommendation on keeping your AED within the proper temperature range. Read our quick tips on temperature management below. 

 

Tip #1: Monitor the Temperature Where Your Device is Stored 

 

Monitoring the environment where you store your AED is key. Is this a place that receives direct sunlight, like an outdoor wall cabinet or utility truck? It’s important to consider the possibility that a 90 °F temperature outdoors could look more like 130° inside an AED cabinet or carrying case for a device in direct sun. 

3 Top Recommendations:

• Place outdoor cabinets in a shaded area out of direct sunlight
• If the device must be stored on a utility truck or other mobile, keep it shaded and outside of the vehicle if possible
• Avoid insulated or padded cases for devices to prevent extra trapped heat

For below-freezing temperatures, consider the opposite when it comes to storage. Insulated AED cases can keep the device’s electrode pads and cords from freezing and adhesive on pads from drying up. 

 

Tip #2 Perform Regular Maintenance Checks 

Regular maintenance checks help you monitor whether or not your device is being stored in the right place. Inspecting for signs of damage and paying attention to the condition of the battery and pads can give insight into weather-related wear.

 

Typical Temperature Maintenance Checks Can Include:

• Checking if the adhesive on the pads is still intact 
• Examining the batteries to check for corrosion or wear 
• Using a thermometer to observe peak hot/cold times of a typical day
• Check device status for any warning symbols or notifications around temperature 

 

Tip #3 Invest in AED Accessories 

If you plan to store your device outside, you may have already looked for the best AEDs for outdoor use. However, a high ingress protection level and durable material will only help protect from dust, water, and damage from falls. 

 

Consider AED wall cabinets and carrying cases, which will provide the proper insulation your device needs from harsh climate conditions. 

 

Browse our AED Cabinets & Carrying Cases Available on AEDSuperstore:

 

 

Tip #4 Read the Owner’s Manual Before Storing Your Device 

All AEDSuperstore AEDs come with an owner’s manual, which you can find in the Reference Library on the product page of your device. Most manuals have specifications sections that include environmental factors that give more detail to the recommended temperature. If you have specific questions about your device, please contact the manufacturer.

 

Operating your AED is one thing, but understanding the environment in which it can operate is a whole new ball game. Our insight on AED operating temperatures can help you ensure your device is located safely to minimize the potential risk of environmental obstacles. By following our tips and guidelines, you can help your AED remain ready for use whenever needed, even in challenging outdoor environments. 

 

 

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact an AEDSuperstore team member at 800-582-5348 or use our contact us form.