Always confirm costs with your healthcare facility and/or insurance coverage
Whether you’re preparing for a medical emergency at home, school, gym, or office, adding a defibrillator—specifically an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)—can literally save lives. But how much does one actually cost?
Let’s break down the different types of defibrillators, their costs, and what you need to know before buying one.
Average Cost of a Defibrillator (AED)
Type of Defibrillator |
Typical Price Range |
Use Case |
|---|---|---|
Home AED (Basic) |
$900 – $1,500 |
Personal/family use |
Public Access AED |
$1,200 – $2,500 |
Schools, offices, gyms, airports |
Professional AED (EMS/Hospital) |
$2,000 – $4,000+ |
First responders, advanced medical settings |
Manual Defibrillator (Hospital Use) |
$5,000 – $20,000 |
ICU/OR/Cardiac units |
🚫 Prices do not always include accessories, pads, or wall mounts.
Popular AED Brands & Models
Brand/Model |
Typical Price |
Highlights |
|---|---|---|
Philips HeartStart OnSite |
$1,200 |
FDA-approved for home use, voice prompts |
ZOLL AED Plus |
$1,600 – $2,100 |
CPR coaching, rugged design |
Defibtech Lifeline |
$1,200 – $1,800 |
Simple interface, good for schools/offices |
Cardiac Science Powerheart G5 |
$1,600 – $2,500 |
Self-testing, bilingual prompts |
Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR2 |
$2,000+ |
Wi-Fi enabled, fast shock delivery |
What’s Included in the Price? 🪖
Component |
Included? |
|---|---|
AED Unit |
✅ Yes |
Electrode Pads |
✅ Usually 1 set |
Battery |
✅ Usually included |
Carrying Case |
❌ Sometimes extra |
Wall Mount / Cabinet |
❌ Usually extra ($150–$400) |
CPR Mask / Kit |
❌ Often not included |
🚀 Pro Tip: Look for bundled packages that include everything needed for public access setup.
Cost of Replacement Accessories 💼
Item |
Cost Range |
Replacement Interval |
|---|---|---|
Electrode Pads |
$40 – $150 |
Every 2–5 years or after use |
Battery Pack |
$100 – $400 |
Every 2–5 years |
Wall Cabinet |
$150 – $400 |
One-time |
Rescue Ready Kit (mask, gloves, razor) |
$20 – $60 |
One-time or as needed |
Does Insurance Cover AEDs? 📄
- Health insurance rarely covers AEDs for home use unless you have a qualifying heart condition and a prescription.
- FSAs and HSAs can often be used to buy an AED (especially with a doctor’s note).
- Some nonprofits and municipalities offer grants or discounts to schools and community groups.
Where to Buy AEDs 🛒
Retailer |
Pros |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
Online Medical Suppliers (AED Superstore, Heartsmart) |
Wide selection, packages available |
Competitive pricing |
Amazon |
Fast shipping |
Beware of third-party sellers |
Manufacturer Websites |
Direct warranties |
Full MSRP pricing |
eBay / Refurbished Units |
Budget-friendly |
Check expiration dates and certification |
How to Save Money on a Defibrillator 🎁
✅ Buy Refurbished (with warranty)
- Certified refurb units can cost 30–50% less.
✅ Buy a Bundle
- Many retailers offer packages that include pads, case, wall cabinet, and signage.
✅ Use HSA/FSA Funds
- Talk to your plan provider or doctor about eligibility.
✅ Join a Grant Program
- Look for local nonprofits or national AED donation programs.
Final Thoughts 😎
AEDs can cost anywhere from $900 to $2,500+, depending on the model, features, and accessories. While they’re not cheap, they can literally mean the difference between life and death during cardiac arrest.
Already own an AED or comparing models? Drop your thoughts, costs, or brand recommendations in the comments!
