3 Reasons 3 Reasons Why Your Electric Powered Wheelchair Is Broken (And How To Fix It) Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair

A wheelchair powered by electricity can be very beneficial for individuals with limited mobility. These chairs are sold at major retailers as well as specialist mobility equipment suppliers. Medicare and private insurance can pay for the cost of an electric wheelchair if a doctor deems it medically necessary.

The majority of power wheelchairs have a joystick, which the user can use to control the motors. The controller, acting 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 aspects to consider is battery life. A high-quality battery can last for up to two years if it is used regularly and maintained properly. The battery type also influences the distance that wheelchairs can travel on a single charge.

Most power wheelchairs use deep cycle batteries, which are designed to last for a long time and provide a steady energy supply. They can handle a variety of discharges and recharges without causing damage to battery cells. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommended charge practices. This includes charging the battery overnight and avoiding letting it run completely empty.

The battery's life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the chair, leading to longer battery life. If a wheelchair is driven over rough or bumpy terrain, the motors have to work harder in order to maintain speed and balance which consumes energy and drains batteries faster.

The life expectancy of batteries is affected by its age and use patterns. If a battery is getting old and starting to lose its capacity to keep the charge, it might be time to replace it. A newer battery can help decrease the amount of time a wheelchair needs to be charged, and it is more likely to have more capacity than older batteries.

Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than the Group 24 batteries. This helps reduce the weight and size of the wheelchair. However, these batteries have less power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.

Avoid overcharging or subcharging the battery as this will shorten its life. It is crucial to keep the battery in a cool, dry location, as extreme temperatures can affect the functionality of the battery.

Weight Capacity

The capacity to support the weight of a power chair is a crucial aspect to take into consideration. If the chair is used for long journeys the chair must be able to support the user's weight. Excessive weight can lead to structural problems, reduced battery life, and an increased risk of accidents.

The weight of a power chair varies from one model to another and is affected by its batteries. The weight of a wheelchair is dependent on the number of accessories as well as the type of accessories, including oxygen tanks holders and various seating systems. The batteries are responsible for the majority of the weight. One battery can weigh up to 50 lbs alone and a powerchair typically has two batteries!

Whether the power chair has two-pole or four-pole motor can also affect its weight. A four-pole motor is more efficient and can provide a higher capacity of weight. However, it will need more energy from the batteries, and can drain faster than a two-pole.

Power wheelchairs can also have different drive bases, such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The position of the wheels may affect the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair under various conditions. The base of the drive may include a range of options, like an adjustable controller that assists in side-transfers, and sip-and-puff controllers that operate by blowing into the sensor.

The environment that a power wheelchair is used is another aspect to consider. It is important that the chair is able to be used on different terrains and can be fitted into rooms and hallways. It's important to measure doors and ensure that the chair can easily move through them, including doors with hinges.

A physical therapist and/or mobility specialist can assist in selecting the best power wheelchair for your needs. In addition to assessing the weight of the chair, its speed and driving range They can also provide advice on other factors like comfort, accessibility modifications and the size of the seat. They also take into account the frequency and duration of use and whether the chair will be transported frequently.

Seating

In contrast to manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones have motors that move them. This allows you to move more freely and further than a manual wheelchair but there are a few limitations.

It is important to understand the weight capacity of your chair. If it's your own personal weight or the weight of any equipment or supplies that you're carrying, it is important to not exceed the manufacturer's suggested weight limit in order to avoid overloading the chair and damaging it.

Make sure that the power chair you choose has a comfortable footplate and a seat that you can fit into. If you don't have enough room for your feet to rest on the footplate, it can shift your center of gravity backward and cause the wheelchair to slouch.

Then, you should look for a wheelchair that has tilt and recline capabilities to decrease the chance of developing pressure sores. This feature is important for older people whose skin could be thin and bruises easily. Power leg rests are also an excellent way to raise your legs, which can reduce swelling.

Like all mechanical devices, your wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure that it operates efficiently and safely. You'll have to check the battery, brakes, tire pressure and other components of your device regularly. You should also inspect the seating for wear and tear, and make any adjustments that are needed.

It is essential to keep your electric chair in a space that is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. The frame can be damaged by high temperatures, and low temperatures can harm the battery and its electrical components.

If you don't purchase your wheelchair from pocket, you won't have insurance coverage, and you won't be able to return it should you find it does not meet your needs. Manufacturers' warranties typically last between one and two years. They cover motors, joysticks, frames, and electronics but not back cushions, seats, or tires. Ask your provider about their return policies before you purchase an electric wheelchair. Most importantly, read the user manual and follow all the directions regarding the use and maintenance of the device.

Operation

The motor of the power wheelchair is situated in the power base. This is underneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered either by rechargeable batteries of 12 volts connected in series for an overall voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries, that are much more efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer periods of time.

There are a variety of options for customizing the controller, electronics, and power base to meet the needs of every user. For instance, certain chairs have adjustable seating to ensure a comfy fit and allow the user to find a position that best supports the stability of their posture. Many models also come with adjustable height of the seat, recline and leg rests, and the ability to tilt with power.

There are a variety of additional features available for electric powered wheelchairs, including oxygen tank holders elevating seats and a range of power accessories. Some powerchairs can also be customized to let the user control them using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.

Some powerchairs also be adjusted in their speed according to the individual's preferences or match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for example when climbing hills. electric wheelchairs are also equipped with sensors that can warn of obstacles and other potential hazards in the vicinity and automatically slow down or stop if necessary.

The position of the drive wheels - whether they are front-wheel, rear-wheel, or mid-wheel drive - has a big impact on how a chair performs in different situations. But, it's a huge topic that we'll save for the next Clinical Corner article.

Before you take your brand new electric wheelchair for the first time, ensure that it's fully charged and the tires have enough air pressure. To prepare for the first time it's recommended to make some adjustments to your chair, armrests and footrests. It's important to read the directions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is particularly important for driving up and down hills. This will minimise the risk of injury, damage, and discomfort.