14 Common Misconceptions About Electric Powered Wheelchair

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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair

Electric powered wheelchairs can be a great assistance for those who have a limited mobility. They are available at major retailers as well as specialist mobility equipment providers. Medicare and private insurance may cover the cost of an electrical wheelchair if a doctor deems it medically required.

The majority of power wheelchairs come with a joystick that the user uses to control the motors. These movements are converted to electrical signals by a control unit that acts as the brain of the chair.

Battery Life

When shopping for a power wheelchair one of the most important aspects to consider is the battery’s life. A high-quality battery can last for up to two years if it is used regularly and maintained properly. The type of battery affects how far the wheelchair can travel on a single charge.

The majority of power wheelchairs utilize deep cycle batteries, which are designed to provide a long-lasting energy supply. These batteries can handle multiple discharges and recharges without causing damage battery cells. It is essential to adhere to the recommended charging practices of the manufacturer. This includes charging the battery overnight and not the battery from running completely empty.

The battery life is affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, leading to longer battery life than rough terrains. If the wheelchair is driven on rough terrain, the motors need to work harder to maintain balance and speed which takes energy and drains batteries faster.

The age of a battery as well as its usage pattern can also impact its longevity. It is possible to replace the battery if it’s becoming old and losing its capacity to hold charge. A newer battery will reduce the time it takes to charge a wheelchair and is likely to be more powerful.

Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. Group 22NF batteries are smaller and lighter than Group 24 batteries, which help to reduce the weight and dimensions of the power wheelchair. These batteries have a smaller power reserve or « juice » than Group 24 batteries.

Beware of overcharging or subcharging your battery as it will reduce its life. It is important to keep the battery in a dry, cool place, as extreme temperatures can impact its functionality.

Capacity of Weight

The capacity to carry the weight of a chair is a key factor to take into consideration. If the chair is intended to be used for long journeys it must be capable of supporting the weight of the person. Weight problems can be caused by excessive weight, which can also lead to accidents and battery life issues.

The weight of a power chair differs from model to and is influenced by the type of batteries it is powered by. It is also impacted by the amount and type of accessories it has, such as oxygen tank holders and a variety of seating systems. However, the majority of its weight is derived from the batteries. One battery can weigh up to 50 pounds on its own and a powerchair typically has two batteries!

The power wheelchair’s either a four-pole or two-pole motor will also affect the weight of the wheelchair. A four-pole power wheelchair is more efficient and has the weight of a larger capacity. However, it will need more energy from the batteries and could drain faster than a two-pole motor.

Power wheelchairs can also have different drive bases such as mid-wheel or rear-wheel. The location of the drive wheels may make a difference in its handling and maneuverability in various conditions. The drive base can also contain a variety of options, including the swing-away control, which helps with side-transfers or sip-and puff controls that work by blowing air on the sensor.

Another aspect to consider is the environment where the power wheelchair is utilized. It is important that the chair is able to be used on different terrains and fit into hallways and rooms. It is essential to measure the doors and ensure that the chair is able to move through them, including doors with hinges.

A physical therapist or My Mobility Scooters – https://www.mymobilityscooters.uk/products/2024-foldable-lightweight-all-terrain-electric-wheelchair specialist can assist in selecting the best power wheelchair for the individual. In addition to evaluating the wheelchair’s weight, speed and driving range, they can also advise on other factors such as accessibility, comfort, and seat size. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration of use as well as whether the chair is transported frequently.

Seating

Unlike manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones come with motors that move them. This allows you to move more freely and farther than a manual wheelchair however, there are a few limitations.

First, you’ll need to be aware of the capacity of your new chair. It is important to never exceed the weig