A defibrillator is one of the few pieces of equipment that can save a life in the minutes before an ambulance arrives. If you are buying one for a workplace, club, school or community, this guide explains what you are choosing between and how to get it right.

What is a defibrillator?

A defibrillator delivers a controlled electric shock to the heart during sudden cardiac arrest, helping it return to a normal rhythm. The type most people buy is an automatic external defibrillator, or AED. An AED is built for use by ordinary people, not just medics. It reads the casualty's heart rhythm, decides whether a shock is needed, and guides the rescuer with voice and visual prompts.

There are two common types. A semi-automatic AED advises a shock and the rescuer presses the button. A fully automatic AED delivers the shock itself once the pads are on. Both are safe. A fully automatic unit suits settings where the rescuer may hesitate to press a button.

How to choose a defibrillator

• Who will use it? Untrained staff and the public need the simplest device with the clearest prompts.
• Adults only, or children too? Clubs and schools need paediatric capability, either a child mode, a child key, or universal pads.
• Indoor or outdoor? An outdoor location needs a rugged unit and a heated, weatherproof cabinet.
• One unit or several? Organisations with a fleet benefit from connected units and remote monitoring.
• Warranty and support. A longer warranty and a local support team protect along-term purchase.
  

Top defibrillator brands in Ireland

We are an approved supplier for the leading manufacturers, so you choose on merit rather than on what one brand happens to stock. Browse Philips, ZOLL, LIFEPAK, Primedic and Powerheart.

How much does a defibrillator cost in Ireland?

An AED starts from around €900 and rises with features such as connectivity, CPR feedback and ruggedness. Complete packages that add a cabinet, signage and a rescue kit cost a little more but cover a full setup in one purchase. Running costs are mainly replacement pads and batteries every few years, which is why a maintenance plan is worth having.

Buying versus renting

Not every organisation wants to buy outright. AED rental spreads the cost into a monthlyfigure and usually keeps the unit maintained and ready. It is a good fit for clubs and smallerorganisations managing a budget.

Where to buy a defibrillator in Ireland

Buy from an Irish-owned supplier with a track record and local support. We have supplied, serviced and supported defibrillators across Ireland since 2006, with more than 10,000 units deployed and around 12,500 people trained every year.

Frequently asked questions

What is an automatic external defibrillator (AED)?

An automatic external defibrillator is a portable device that checks the heart's rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest and delivers a controlled shock if needed. It is built for use by untrained people and guides the rescuer with voice and visual prompts.

How much does a defibrillator cost in Ireland?

Prices start from around €900 and rise with added features. Complete packages with a cabinet and signage cost more but cover a full setup.

Which defibrillator is best?

There is no single best AED. The right one depends on where it is used and who will use it. Philips HeartStart suits simple public and office use, ZOLL adds CPR feedback, Primedic suits clubs needing child capability, and LIFEPAK suits rugged or connected needs.

Can anyone use a defibrillator?

Yes. AEDs are built for use by the public and only advise a shock when one is needed. Short training builds confidence.