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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair Electric powered wheelchairs can be an excellent help to people who have a limited mobility. These chairs are sold at major retailers and specialty mobility equipment suppliers. Medicare and private insurance could cover the cost of an electrical wheelchair if a doctor deems it medically required. The majority of power wheelchairs come with an instrument that the user moves to control the motors. The controller, acting as the brain of the wheelchair, converts these movements into electrical signals. Battery Life Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when buying a wheelchair. A quality battery can last for up to two years if it is used regularly and maintained properly. The type of battery also affects how far a wheelchair will travel on a single charge. The majority of power wheelchairs have deep cycle batteries that are designed to provide a long-lasting power supply. These batteries can handle multiple discharges and recharges without harming the 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 allowing it to run completely empty. The surface on which the wheelchair operates also influences the battery's lifespan. Smooth, level surfaces use less energy to propel the chair, resulting in longer battery life. If the wheelchair is driven on rough or bumpy terrain, the motors need to work harder to maintain speed and balance which consumes energy and drains batteries faster. The lifespan of batteries is affected by its age and usage patterns. If a battery is getting old and losing its ability to hold a charge, it may be time to replace it. 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, with Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most popular options. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than the Group 24 batteries. This helps reduce the weight and size of a wheelchair. However, these batteries have a lower power or “juice” reserve than Group 24 batteries. It is important to avoid overcharging or undercharging your battery, because this can result in a decrease in its life span. It is crucial to keep the battery in a dry, cool location, as extreme temperatures can alter the battery's performance. Weight Capacity The capacity to support the weight of a power chair is a key factor to consider. If the chair is intended to be used for long journeys the chair must be capable of supporting the weight of the person. Weight problems are often caused by excess weight, which can result in problems with battery life and accidents. The weight of a power wheelchair differs between models and is affected by its batteries. The weight of a power chair is dependent on the number of accessories and the type of accessories, such as oxygen tanks holders and various seating systems. The batteries make up the majority of the weight. One battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs alone and a powerchair usually has two of them! The weight of the power wheelchair can be affected by whether it has an engine with four poles or two. A four-pole motor is more efficient and has more capacity for weight. However, it requires more energy from the batteries and could drain faster than a two-pole. Power wheelchairs can also have different drive bases such as mid-wheel or rear-wheel. The location of the wheels can impact its handling and maneuverability in different conditions. The base of the drive may include a range of options, like an adjustable controller that assists in side-transfers as well as sip-and puff controls that work by blowing into the sensor. Another aspect to consider is the environment that the power wheelchair is utilized. It is crucial that the chair is able to move across a variety of terrains and fit into hallways and rooms. It is essential to measure the doorways, and ensure that the chair will fit through them. This includes hinged doors. A physical therapist and/or mobility specialist can assist in selecting the right power wheelchair for the individual. They can advise on factors like comfort, accessibility modifications as well as the size of the seat and the weight of the wheelchair. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration of use and whether the chair is frequently transported. Seating Electric wheelchairs are powered by motors to move them, in contrast to manual wheelchairs. This allows you to move more easily and farther than a manual wheelchair, but there are a few limitations. First, you'll need to know the capacity for weight of your new wheelchair. If it's your own personal weight or the weight of any equipment or items that you're carrying, it is important to not exceed the manufacturer's suggested weight limit to avoid overtaxing the power chair and damaging it. Next, make sure your chosen power chair has a comfortable seat and a footplate that you can fit comfortably into. If your feet do not fit into the footplate of the power chair your center gravity can be reversed and the wheelchair will lunge. Also, consider a power wheelchair that has tilt and recline features to reduce the chance of developing pressure sores. This feature is particularly important for those who are older, as their skin is thin and can bruise easily. Leg rests that are powered are an excellent way to raise your legs, which can reduce swelling. Your wheelchair, like any mechanical device, requires regular maintenance to function properly and safely. You'll need to examine the condition of the battery, brakes, tire pressure, and other parts of the device on a regular basis. Also, you should inspect the seating for wear and tear, and make any necessary adjustments. all terrain electric wheelchairs for adults is important to keep your power chair in a place that is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. Exposure to high temperatures can cause damage to the frame, whereas exposure to low temperatures could cause damage to the battery and other 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 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. Before buying an electric wheelchair, ask your provider about the return policy. The most important thing is to read the manual thoroughly and follow the instructions regarding maintenance and use. Operation Power wheelchairs are powered by a motor in the power base that sits under the user's seat. The motor is powered by two or one rechargeable 12-volt batteries in series, giving 24 volts in total. LITH-TECH provides lithium batteries, which are much more efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer durations of time. The controller as well as the electronics and power base can be customised to suit the requirements of different users, with many options available. For example, some chairs can be customized to help ensure a comfortable fit and allow the user to find the most suitable position to support postural stability. Many models include adjustable features, such as seat height, leg rest and recline positions, in addition to the ability to tilt with power. Electric powered wheelchairs can be fitted with a wide range of additional features. These include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs and a wide range of power accessories. Certain powerchairs are customized to allow users to control them by using brainwaves or nerve signals. Some powerchairs also be able to adjust their speed to accommodate the user's preference or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, such as when going up hills. They can also be fitted with sensors that can warn of obstacles and other potential hazards in the vicinity and will then automatically slow down or swerve in the event of a need. The positioning of the drive wheels – whether they're front-wheel, mid-wheel or rear-wheel drive – has a big impact on the way the chair performs under different conditions. But that's a big topic that we'll save for another Clinical Corner article. Check that your brand new electric chair is fully charged and that the tires are inflated to the right pressure before you take it for an excursion. It's also recommended to adjust the armrests, seat, footrests (if applicable) and joystick, in order to prepare it for first time use. It is essential to follow the directions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is especially important when driving on and down hills. This will reduce the risk of injury, damage, and discomfort.