Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair

An electric powered wheelchair can be very beneficial for those who have a limited mobility. These chairs are available at major retailers as well as specialist mobility equipment suppliers. Medicare and private insurance will pay for an electric wheelchair if it’s considered medically necessary by a doctor.

The majority of power wheelchairs feature a joystick that the user moves to direct the motors. These movements are converted into electrical signals by a control unit that acts as the brain of the chair.

Battery Life

Battery life is an important aspect to take into consideration when purchasing wheelchair. A high-quality battery can last for up to two years if used regularly and regular maintenance. The type of battery can also influence how far a wheelchair can travel on one charge.

Deep cycle batteries are utilized in most power wheelchairs. They offer a long-lasting energy supply. They can handle numerous discharges and recharges without causing damage to the battery cells. It is essential to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer for charging that typically include charging the battery overnight and avoiding allowing it to run completely empty.

The surface on the ground on which the wheelchair is operated can affect the battery’s life. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, which results in a longer battery life than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is used on rocky or bumpy surfaces motors will have to work harder to maintain stability and speed which means that they consume more energy and drains the battery faster.

The condition of a battery and the way it is used can impact its longevity. If a battery is getting old and starting to lose its capacity to hold the charge, it might be time for a replacement. A newer battery will reduce the time it takes to charge a wheelchair and will likely to have more capacity.

Wheelchair batteries come in a variety of sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than Group 24 batteries. This helps to reduce the weight and size of a wheelchair. These batteries have a smaller power reserve or “juice” than Group 24 batteries.

It is recommended to avoid charging too much or undercharging your battery, since this could result in the battery’s life span. Maintaining the battery in a dry, cool area is also crucial since exposure to extreme temperatures could adversely affect the battery’s function.

Weight Capacity

The capacity to carry the weight of a chair is a crucial aspect to take into consideration. If the chair is going to be used for long journeys, then it must be able to support a user’s weight. Excessive weight can lead to structural problems, decreased battery life, and a higher chance of accidents.

The weight of a power chair is different from model to model, and is affected by the type of battery it uses. It also affects the amount and type of accessories it has like oxygen tank holders and various seating systems. The batteries account for the bulk of its weight. One battery can weigh as much as 50 pounds on its own and a power chair typically has two batteries!

The weight of a power wheelchair can also be affected by the type of engine it is an engine with four poles or two. A four-pole portable power chair chair is more efficient and it can support a greater weight capacity. It will however require more energy and drain the batteries faster than a motor that has two poles.

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

Another consideration is the environment where the power wheelchair is used. It is crucial that the chair be used on different terrains and fit into hallways and rooms. It is essential to measure the doorways, and ensure that the chair will pass through them. This includes hinged doors.

A physical therapist and/or mobility power chair specialist can assist you in choosing the appropriate power wheelchair for your needs. In addition to evaluating the wheelchair’s weight, speed and driving range, they can also advise on other factors like accessibility, comfort and the size of the seat. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration, and whether the chair is likely to be moved frequently.

Seating

Electric wheelchairs come with motors that move them, unlike manual wheelchairs. This lets you move more freely and further than a manual one, but there are a few limitations.

In the beginning, you’ll need be aware of the weight capacity of your new power chair. Whether it’s your personal weight or the weight of any equipment or other items you’re carrying, you should not exceed the manufacturer’s suggested weight limit to prevent overtaxing the power chair amazon chair and creating damage.

Make sure that the chair you select has a comfortable footplate and an armchair that you can fit in. If you don’t have enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it could shift your center of gravity backward and cause the wheelchair to move.

Finally, look for a power wheelchair with tilt and recline capabilities to decrease the risk of pressure sores. This feature is crucial for those who are older, as their skin can be thin and easily bruise. Leg rests with power are a great way to elevate your legs, which will reduce swelling.

As with any mechanical device, your wheelchair will require maintenance to ensure it functions well and safely. You’ll need to check the condition of your battery and brakes, tire pressure and other parts of the device regularly. You should also check the seating for wear, and make any necessary adjustments.

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

If you don’t buy your wheelchair out of your pocket, you won’t be able to get insurance coverage and won’t be able return it if you discover that it doesn’t meet your needs. Manufacturers’ warranties typically last between one and two years. They cover motors, joysticks, frames, and electronic components, but not back cushions, seats or tires. Ask your supplier about their return policies before you purchase an electric wheelchair. The most important thing to do is read the manual and follow the instructions regarding use and maintenance.

Operation

Power wheelchairs are driven by a motor within the power base that is located beneath the user’s seat. The motor is powered by two or one rechargeable 12-volt batteries that are connected in series, for 24 volts total. LITH-TECH provides lithium batteries, which are more energy efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer durations of time.

Many options are available to customize the controller, electronics and power base to meet the requirements of every user. For instance, some chairs offer customizable seating to ensure a comfy fit and let the user choose the most suitable position to support the stability of their posture. Many models also come with adjustable heights for the seat as well as recline and leg rest positions, as well as power tilt functionality.

Electric powered wheelchairs can come with a variety of extras. They include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs, and a wide range of accessories for power. Some powerchairs can even be customised so that the user can control them using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.

Some powerchairs also be able to adjust their speed according to the user’s preference or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, such as when climbing hills. Some powerchairs are equipped with sensors that warn them of obstacles or other potential hazards nearby, and will automatically slow down and swerve when needed.

The location of the drive wheels, whether they are rear-wheels, mid-wheels or front-wheel drives has significant influence on how a chair performs under different conditions. This is a massive subject, so we’ll save it for a later Clinical Corner.

Before you take your brand new electric wheelchair out for the first time, ensure that it’s fully charged, and that the tires have enough air pressure. It’s also an excellent idea to adjust the seat, armrests footrests (if appropriate) and joystick to prepare it for first time use. Make sure you follow the directions in the manual when operating your wheelchair, particularly when driving down and up slopes. This reduces the chance of discomfort and injuries.