The Ultimate AED Buying Guide for Canada.
Choosing the Right AED for Your Needs
When it comes to purchasing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in Canada, making the right choice can save lives. With various models and features on the market, this guide will help you understand what to consider and provide a comprehensive comparison of the most popular AEDs. Plus, we’ll explain why AED4Life is your trusted partner in AED procurement and how tools like TrackMyAED enhance your AED management.
AED Buying Guide
| Manufacturer and Model | Shock Delivery | Pads Expiry | Battery Expiry | Key Features | Best Suited For | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Zoll AED 3 | Semi-Automatic or Fully-Automatic | 5 years | 5 years | Wi-Fi enabled, CPR Uni-padz for adults and children, real-time CPR feedback | Schools, businesses, EMS |
 |
Zoll AED 3 BLS |
Semi-Automatic | 5 years |
5 years |
High-res, colour graphic ECG display and a CPR dashboard | Advanced users, EMS |
 |
ZOLL AED Plus | Semi-Automatic or Fully-Automatic | 5 years |
5 years |
Real-time CPR feedback, intuitive design, long-lasting batteries. | Public places, beginners |
 |
Philips HeartStart OnSite |
Semi-Automatic | 2 years |
4 years |
Lightweight, user-friendly, pre-connected pads. | Offices, homes, community centers |
 |
Philips HeartStart FRx |
Semi-Automatic | 2 years |
4 years |
Pediatric capability, rugged design, clear voice instructions. | Outdoor use, warehouses, schools |
|
|
Cardiac Science G5 |
Semi-Automatic | 2 years |
4 years |
CPR feedback, bilingual prompts, rugged design. | Industrial sites, bilingual areas |
 |
HeartSine Samaritan 350P |
Semi-Automatic | 4 years |
4 years |
Compact, lightweight, visual and audio prompts. | Small businesses, portable use |
 |
HeartSine Samaritan 360P |
Fully-Automatic | 4 years |
4 years |
Fully automatic, easy-to-use, compact design | Beginners, public places |
 |
HeartSine Samaritan 500P
|
Semi-Automatic | 4 years |
4 years |
CPR advisor providing feedback based on patient response | Advanced users, EMS |
 |
STRYKER CR2 Wi-Fi |
Semi-Automatic or Fully-Automatic | 4 years |
4 years |
CPR Insight™ technology, bilingual prompts | Schools, airports, businesses |
 |
Physio-Control LIFEPAK 1000 |
Semi-Automatic | 4 years |
5 years |
CprMAX™ technology, ECG or Graphic Display, rugged design. | Advanced users, EMS |
 |
Defibtech Lifeline VIEW
|
Semi-Automatic | 2 years |
4 years |
Color screen with video instructions, rugged design. |
Visual learners, workplaces |
 |
Defibtech Lifeline |
Semi-Automatic | 2 years |
5 or 7 years |
Simplistic design, audio instructions, long-lasting battery | General public use |
Why Trust AED4Life?
Canada’s Largest and Most Experienced AED Provider
AED4Life has years of expertise, serving diverse industries across Canada.
Exclusive Partnerships
AED4Life is the exclusive Canadian partner for ROTAID 24/7 cabinets and offers premium tools like TrackMyAED, ensuring unmatched AED management.
Expert Staff
Our certified AED professionals guide you through selection, compliance, and ongoing maintenance, ensuring your AED program is reliable.
End-to-End Solutions
From purchase to implementation, AED4Life offers training, accessory replacements, and device monitoring for a complete solution.
Trusted by Top Organizations
AED4Life is the AED supplier of choice for schools, businesses, and first responders across Canada.
What to Consider When Buying an AED in Canada
Intended Use
Public Places: Easy-to-use AEDs with clear prompts are ideal.
Workplaces or Industrial Sites: Rugged models with enhanced durability.
Schools or Community Centers: Lightweight and straightforward models.
EMS or Professionals: Advanced models with customizable settings.
Features to Evaluate
Ease of Use: Clear instructions, visual cues, and voice prompts.
Durability: Water and dust resistance for outdoor or industrial environments.
Pediatric Capability: Ability to treat children using pediatric pads or settings.
Battery Life & Maintenance: Long-lasting batteries and cost-effective replacements
Connectivity: Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for real-time device monitoring and updates.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure the AED is approved by Health Canada and meets all provincial requirements.
Total Cost of Ownership
Factor in the price of accessories like replacement pads, batteries, and warranties. The cost of an AED depends on its features, accessories, and intended use. Here’s an approximate price range for the most popular AEDs:
| AED Manufacturer and Model | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| ZOLL AED Plus | $1900-2200 |
| ZOLL AED 3 | $2000-2400 |
| ZOLL AED 3 BLS | $3000+ |
| Philips HeartStart FRx | $1800-$2200 |
| Philips HeartStart OnSite | $1600-$2000 |
| Cardiac Science G5 | $2200-$2500 |
| HeartSine Samaritan 350P | $1500-1900 |
| HeartSine Samaritan 360P | $1500-1900 |
| HeartSine Samaritan 500P | $2000-2400 |
| Physio-Control CR2 | $2300-$2700 |
| Physio-Control LP1000 | $2800-3200 |
| Defibtech Lifeline VIEW | $1800-$2000 |
| Defibtech Lifeline | $2500-$2800 |
Ease of Use
AEDs are designed for lay rescuers or professionals, but ease of use varies:
- Beginner-Friendly Models: ZOLL AED Plus, Philips OnSite, and HeartSine 360P offer clear voice instructions and automatic shock delivery options.
- Advanced Features for Professionals: Devices like the ZOLL AED Pro and Stryker CR2 have ECG monitoring and customizable settings for EMS use.
Models with real-time CPR feedback, such as the ZOLL AED Plus, improve performance by coaching users through compressions.
Battery Life and Warranty
Battery life and warranty vary significantly across AED models, impacting long-term costs. (See Buying Guide)
Maintenance
Maintenance involves replacing pads, batteries, and ensuring the AED is ready for use. Key features like TrackMyAED streamline this process by sending reminders for:
- Pads Replacement: Typically every 2-4 years or after use.
- Battery Replacement: Varies, with most lasting 4-5 years.
- Firmware Updates: AEDs like the ZOLL AED 3 and Stryker CR2 can update via Wi-Fi.
Ingress Protection (IP) Rating
The IP rating measures an AED’s resistance to dust and water. A higher IP rating indicates better durability, ideal for outdoor or harsh environments.
| AED Manufacturer and Model | IP Rating | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| ZOLL AED Plus | IP 55 | Public spaces, general use. |
| ZOLL AED 3 | IP 55 | Schools, workplaces. |
| ZOLL AED 3 BLS | IP 55 | EMS, rugged environments. |
| Philips HeartStart FRx | IP 55 | Outdoor or industrial sites. |
| Philips HeartStart OnSite | IP 21 | Indoor, controlled environments. |
| Cardiac Science G5 | IP 55 | Outdoor and bilingual regions. |
| HeartSine Samaritan 350P | IP 56 | Harsh outdoor or wet environments. |
| HeartSine Samaritan 360P | IP 56 | Harsh outdoor or wet environments. |
| HeartSine Samaritan 500P | IP 56 | Harsh outdoor or wet environments. |
| Physio-Control CR2 | IP 55 | Schools, airports, businesses. |
| Physio-Control LP1000 | IP 55 | EMS, rugged environments. |
| Defibtech Lifeline VIEW | IP 55 | General public use. |
| Defibtech Lifeline | IP 54 | Visual learners, rugged workplaces. |
Summary of Key Factors
When choosing an AED, consider the total cost of ownership, including initial price, maintenance, and battery/pad replacements. Match features like ease of use, CPR feedback, and pediatric settings with your specific needs. For outdoor or industrial environments, prioritize durability with a high IP rating.
Maximize Your AED Program with TrackMyAED
TrackMyAED is a powerful tool offered by AED4Life that simplifies AED program management.
Features include:
Real-Time Monitoring: Track AED status, pad, and battery expiry dates.
Automated Alerts: Receive notifications for required maintenance or replacements.
Compliance Support: Ensure all devices meet Health Canada and provincial requirements.
Peace of Mind: Never miss a critical update, keeping your AEDs always ready to save lives.
Why Choose AED4Life for Your AED Needs in Canada?
AED4Life is more than just a supplier; we’re your trusted AED partner. With unmatched expertise, competitive pricing, and tools like TrackMyAED, we ensure your investment is safe, reliable, and ready to save lives. Contact our team of experts today for personalized guidance on choosing the right AED for your needs.
FAQs About AEDs in Canada
What is the best AED for beginners?
The ZOLL AED Plus and HeartSine 360P are excellent options.
Which AED is best for industrial or outdoor environments?
Consider the Philips FRx or Cardiac Science G5 for rugged durability.
Can AEDs be used on children?
Many AEDs, like the ZOLL AED 3 and Philips FRx, offer pediatric settings or pads.
What maintenance is required for AEDs?
AED pads and batteries need periodic replacement. Tools like TrackMyAED make management easy.