Important update from Stryker that affects certain LIFEPAK AED models. If you own a LIFEPAK CR Plus or EXPRESS AED, we're here to help you understand what this means for your emergency preparedness program and explore your options moving forward.
Our team of AED experts is ready to answer your questions and help you maintain reliable life-saving equipment for your facility. Explore our AED trade-in program or contact us today to discuss your needs.
What's Happening
Stryker discontinued sales of the LIFEPAK CR Plus and EXPRESS AEDs effective 27 November 2019. While the company initially committed to providing CHARGE-PAK battery chargers, electrodes, and accessories through the warranty period for units purchased before 31 October 2020, these supplies are now becoming increasingly difficult to source.
Without reliable access to CHARGE-PAK and electrode supplies, it becomes challenging to keep the AED models listed below ready for emergencies, which is why planning ahead is so important.
Here’s what you need to know about warranty timelines:
- EXPRESS units (5-year warranty)
- CR Plus units (8-year warranty)
As these warranty periods come to an end, it's a good time to evaluate your AED program and ensure you have a plan for maintaining rescue-ready equipment. Read Stryker's official announcement here.
*Note: Expiry of warranty is based upon the manufacture date of your AED, and not the date you purchased it.
Check the date next to the factory symbol on your AED to determine its manufacture date. Simply look on the bottom of your AED unit to find the factory symbol, and the manufacture date will be to the right of it.
LIFEPAK CR Plus
LIFEPAK EXPRESS
Why It’s Happening
The discontinuation reflects broader industry evolution:
Product Line Evolution: As stated in Stryker’s official announcement, "As Stryker introduces new AEDs into our portfolio, we retire older products." They've shifted focus to the LIFEPAK CR2 and newer product lines that offer advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity, cprINSIGHT™ technology, and real-time CPR feedback.
Technology Advancement: The CR Plus and EXPRESS models lack the modern capabilities found in current devices. Stryker’s newer models have features like wireless connectivity for remote monitoring, automated self-testing alerts, and enhanced CPR guidance. These features are now standard in emergency response equipment.
Which AED Machines Are Affected
The following AED models are directly impacted by this discontinuation:
- LIFEPAK CR Plus AED - 8-year warranty period
- LIFEPAK EXPRESS AED - 5-year warranty period
Warranty information: According to Stryker's announcement, only units purchased from Stryker or authorised distributors before October 2020 carried the standard warranties. This means:
- EXPRESS units (5-year warranty)
- CR Plus units (8-year warranty)
If you own an EXPRESS model, you’re outside the allotted time, and there is unfortunately no longer support for your unit.
CR Plus owners have three years remaining, but face the same problem: replacement CHARGE-PAKs and electrodes are already becoming difficult to source. Once current supplies are depleted and your AED pads and batteries expire, you will need to upgrade to a new device.
If you’re unsure whether your model is affected, get in touch. Our team is on hand to help you continue protecting your community from cardiac emergencies.
Which Stryker AEDs Are Not Affected
These fully-supported models remain available with complete parts and supply chains:
LIFEPAK CR2 (The official successor to CR Plus)
- Designated by Stryker as the CR Plus replacement in February 2019
- Wi-Fi and USB connectivity for remote monitoring
- cprINSIGHT™ analysis technology reduces pauses between CPR and defibrillation
- Child Mode button and optional language button
- Self-monitoring with automatic alerts
- Full availability of replacement batteries and pads
- Professional-grade features for trained responders
- Multiple energy protocols for different emergency scenarios
- Large, intuitive display screen for clear guidance
- Comprehensive support with readily available supplies
- Trusted by EMS professionals across Canada
Both models offer significant advantages over the discontinued units, including simplified maintenance, enhanced readiness monitoring, and most importantly, guaranteed long-term availability of supplies and support.
Why It's Important to Act Now
For EXPRESS owners: Your warranty expires in October 2025. After that, replacement pads and batteries will no longer be available..
For CR Plus owners: While you may have warranty coverage through 2028 (depending on your AED's manufacture date), planning ahead ensures you won't face unexpected challenges when supplies become unavailable. Once your current CHARGE-PAK and electrode supplies expire, you'll need to transition to a newer model. Many organisations are choosing to upgrade early to take advantage of current trade-in programs.
In a cardiac emergency, every second counts. Maintaining continuous emergency preparedness is essential for protecting your employees, customers, and community members.
You can also benefit from limited-time trade-in incentives. Some programs are currently available to help offset upgrade costs, but these offers won't last forever.
Upgrade Your AED Through Our Trade-In Program
At AED Advantage, we’re committed to helping Canadians save lives in their communities and workplaces. Our exclusive trade-in program helps affected LIFEPAK owners :
Our Trade-In Offer Includes:
- Significant discounts on new, fully-supported AED models
- Credit for your existing CR Plus or EXPRESS units
- Free shipping on all replacement orders
- Expert guidance in selecting the right AED for your needs
- Exclusive package deals with essential accessories
Don't wait until you're unable to find replacement supplies. Visit our trade-in page to learn more and receive your personalised trade-in quote.
Our team will help you transition seamlessly to a new, fully-supported model that meets your needs. We’ve got you covered, whether you need an easy-to-use AED for everyday heroes or advanced gear for professional first responders.
