A defibrillator needs the right home. A cabinet keeps the unit protected, visible and findable in an emergency, and the right type depends on where it goes.

Why a cabinet matters

A cabinet does three jobs. It protects the AED from damage, weather and tampering. It makes the unit easy to spot, often with green signage that people recognise. And it keeps the pads and battery within their working temperature range, which matters more than people expect, particularly outdoors.

Indoor cabinets

For an AED kept inside an office, school or leisure centre, an indoor cabinet is enough. Look for clear visibility and signage, an alarm option to deter tampering, and a simple lock or open-access design depending on whether the unit is staff-only or public access.

Outdoor cabinets

For an AED on a sports ground, an external wall, or any public access point, you need an outdoor cabinet. The key features are:

• Heating. Pads and batteries have a minimum working temperature. A heated cabinet keeps them in range through an Irish winter, which an unheated box will not.
• Weatherproofing. A proper seal against rain and damp is essential.
• A lock, usually coded: Public access units are often linked to the ambulance service, which provides the access code to a caller during an emergency.
• A clear, lit, visible design: so the unit can be found day or night.

Public access and registration

If your AED is for community use, an outdoor coded cabinet lets the wider public reach it in an emergency. Registering the unit with the ambulance service means it can be directed to during a 112 or 999 call, which extends its value well beyond your own organisation.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a heated cabinet for an outdoor defibrillator?

Yes. Pads and batteries have a minimum working temperature, and a heated cabinet keeps them in range through cold weather. An unheated box risks the consumables failing.

Should a public access defibrillator cabinet be locked?

Usually with a coded lock. Public access units are often registered with the ambulance service, which gives the access code to a caller during an emergency.

What is the difference between an indoor and outdoor AED cabinet?

An indoor cabinet protects and displays the unit inside a building. An outdoor cabinet adds heating, weatherproofing and usually a coded lock to handle the elements and public access.

Can any cabinet fit any defibrillator?

No. Cabinets are sized for the unit, so check the cabinet suits your model before ordering, or ask us and we will confirm the right fit.