15 Reasons To Not Ignore Electric Powered Wheelchair Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair

Electric powered wheelchairs can be a great assistance for those who have a limited mobility. These chairs are available at major stores and specialist mobility equipment suppliers. Medicare and private insurance can pay for an electric wheelchair if deemed medically necessary by a physician.

The majority of power wheelchairs have an electronic joystick, which the user can use to control the motors. The controller, which functions as the brain of the wheelchair, converts these movements into electrical signals.

Battery Life

When looking for a power wheelchair one of the most important factors to consider is the battery's life. A good battery can last up to two years if used regularly and proper maintenance. The type of battery affects how far the wheelchair can be able to travel on one charge.

Most power wheelchairs use deep cycle batteries, which are designed to provide a long-lasting power supply. These batteries can handle multiple recharges and discharges without causing damage battery cells. It is crucial to adhere to the recommendations of the manufacturer for charging that typically include charging the battery over the course of a night and avoiding letting it run completely empty.

The surface on the ground on which the wheelchair is operated also influences the battery's lifespan. Smooth, level surfaces use less power to propel the chair, resulting in longer battery life. If a wheelchair is driven over rough or bumpy terrain, the motors need to work harder to maintain balance and speed, which consumes energy and drains batteries faster.

A battery's longevity is also affected by its age and usage patterns. It may be time to replace the battery if it's getting old and is losing its ability to keep charge. A newer battery will reduce the time a wheelchair needs to be charged, and it is more likely to have a greater capacity than older batteries.

Wheelchair batteries are available in several sizes that include Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most well-known choices. Group 22NF batteries are lighter and smaller than Group 24 batteries, which helps in reducing the weight and width of a power wheelchair. They have a smaller power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.

Avoid overcharging or subcharging the battery as it will reduce its life. It is essential to keep the battery in a dry, cool location, as extreme temperatures can alter the battery's performance.

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity is an important aspect to take into account when selecting the best power wheelchair. If the chair is to be used for long journeys the chair must be capable of supporting the user's body weight. Weight problems can result from excessive weight, which can cause problems with battery life and accidents.

The weight of a power chair varies from one model to the next and is affected by its batteries. It is also impacted by the number and types of accessories it comes with, such as oxygen tank holders and various seating systems. However, the majority of its weight is derived from the batteries. A single battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs, and most power chairs have two!

Whether the power chair has a two-pole motor or four-pole motor will also influence its weight. A four-pole power wheelchair is more efficient, and it can support more weight capacity. However, it will require more energy and drain batteries more quickly than a motor with just two poles.

Power wheelchairs may also have different drive bases, such as rear-wheel drive or mid-wheel drive. The position of the drive wheels may affect the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair in various conditions. The base of the drive could include a range of options, including an adjustable controller that assists in side-transfers and sip-and-puff controls which work by blowing on a sensor.

The setting that a power wheelchair is used is a different factor to take into consideration. It is essential that the chair be able to travel across different terrains and be able to fit into hallways and rooms. It is crucial to measure the doorways, and make sure that the chair is able to pass through them. This includes hinged doors.

A physical therapist and/or mobility specialist can assist you in choosing the best power wheelchair for the individual. They can advise on factors like comfort, accessibility modifications, seat size, and weight of the wheelchair. They will also consider the frequency and duration of use and whether the chair will be moved regularly.

Seating

Electric wheelchairs have motors to move them, unlike manual wheelchairs. This allows you to move more freely and farther than a manual wheelchair, but there are a few limitations.

It is important to understand the weight capacity of your wheelchair. You should never exceed the recommended weight limit, regardless of whether it's you or any equipment or other items that you're carrying.


Next, make sure your chosen power chair has a comfortable seat and a footplate you can fit into. If your feet don't fit onto the footplate of the power chair, your center of gravity could be reversed and the wheelchair will lunge.

Find a power chair with tilt and reclining functions to minimize the risk of developing pressure sores. My Mobility Scooters is essential for older people whose skin could be thin and prone to bruises. Leg rests that are powered are a great way to elevate your legs, which will reduce swelling.

Like any other mechanical device, your wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure that it performs efficiently and safely. You'll need to inspect the battery as well as the tire pressure, brakes, and other parts of your wheelchair regularly. You should also examine the seat for wear and make any necessary adjustments.

You should also pay attention to the location you store your power wheelchair to avoid exposing it to extreme weather conditions. Exposure to high temperatures can cause damage to the frame, whereas exposure to low temperatures may damage the battery and other electrical components.

If you don't purchase your wheelchair out-of-pocket the wheelchair isn't covered by insurance and you won't have the option to return it if it's not meeting your requirements. Manufacturers' warranties typically last between one and two years. They cover joysticks, motors, frames, and electronic components but not seats, back cushions or tires. Before buying an electric wheelchair, inquire with your provider about the return policy. Most importantly, review the user's manual thoroughly and follow all the directions on how to use and maintain the device.

Operation

The motor of a power wheelchair is located in the power base. This is beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by one or two rechargeable 12-volt batteries that are connected in series, for 24 volts in total. LITH-TECH's lithium batteries are more efficient in energy than lead acids and can be used over longer periods of time.

There are a variety of options for customizing the controller, electronics and power base to meet the requirements of each user. For example, some chairs can be customized to ensure a comfortable fit and let the user find the most suitable position to support postural stability. Many models also include adjustable seat height, recline and leg rests, and power tilt functionality.

Electric powered wheelchairs can come with a range of accessories. These include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs, and a wide range of power accessories. Some powerchairs can also be customised to let the user control them using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.

Some powerchairs have the ability to adjust the speed according to the preferences of the user, or to match other vehicles on the road. For instance when driving uphill. They can also be fitted with sensors that warn of dangers and obstacles in the vicinity, and will automatically slow down or swerve if necessary.

The position of the drive wheels - whether they are rear-wheel, mid-wheel or front-wheel drive - can have a huge impact on the way a chair performs in different situations. This is a vast subject, so we'll save it to a future Clinical Corner.

Check that your new electric chair is fully charged and the tires are inflating to the right pressure before you take it for an excursion. It's also recommended to make some adjustments to the armrests, seat, footrests (if appropriate) and joystick, to prepare it for its first time use. Make sure you follow the manual's instructions for operating your wheelchair, particularly when driving up and down slopes. This reduces the chance of injury, damage, and discomfort.