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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair

Electric powered wheelchairs can be a huge assistance for those who have a limited mobility. These chairs are available at specialist mobility equipment suppliers and some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance could pay for the cost of an electrical wheelchair if a doctor considers it medically necessary.

The majority of power wheelchairs feature an instrument that the user moves to control the motors. The controller, which functions as the brain of the wheelchair converts these movements into electrical signals.

Battery Life

Battery life is an important factor to consider when shopping for wheelchair. A good battery can last for up to two years with regular use and proper maintenance. The battery type also influences the distance that wheelchairs can travel on one charge.

The majority of power wheelchairs have deep cycle batteries, which are designed to last for a long time and provide a steady energy supply. They can handle numerous recharges and discharges without causing damage to battery cells. It is important to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer for charging which usually include charging the battery overnight and avoiding allowing it to run completely empty.

The battery life is affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth flat surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, resulting in an extended battery life than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is driven over rocky or bumpy terrain, the motors have to work harder to maintain speed and balance which takes energy and depletes battery faster.

The condition of a battery and its usage pattern can also influence its lifespan. It may be time to replace batteries if they are becoming old and is losing its ability to keep charge. A newer battery will reduce the time a wheelchair must be charged, and it is more likely to have a higher 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 to reduce the weight and size of a wheelchair. However, these batteries have lower power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.

Avoid overcharging or subcharging the battery, as this can reduce the battery's lifespan. The battery should be kept in a dry, cool location is also essential since exposure to extreme temperatures could adversely affect the battery's function.

Capacity for Weight

The capacity to carry the weight of a chair is an important factor to consider. If the chair will be used for long-distance trips and long trips, then it should be able to support the user's weight. lightest electric wheelchair are often caused by excess weight, which can lead to battery life issues and accidents.

A power wheelchair's weight varies from model to model and is influenced by the type of batteries it is powered by. The weight of a wheelchair is dependent on the number of accessories and the type of accessories, like oxygen tanks holders and different seating systems. The batteries are responsible for the majority of the weight. A single battery can weigh up to 50 lbs, and most power chairs have two!

The weight of the power wheelchair is also affected by the type of engine it is an engine with four poles or two. A four-pole motor is more efficient and can provide a higher capacity for weight. However, it requires more energy from the batteries, and can drain faster than a two-pole.

Power wheelchairs may also come with different drive bases such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The location of the drive wheels could influence the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair in a variety of conditions. The drive base may contain a variety of options, including an adjustable swing-away control that assists with side-transfers or sip-and puff controls that work by blowing air on a sensor.

Another factor to consider is the setting where the power wheelchair will be employed. It is crucial that the chair can be used on various surfaces and be able to 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 or mobility specialist can assist you in choosing the right power wheelchair for the person. They can provide advice on aspects like comfort, accessibility modifications as well as the size of the seat and the weight of the chair. They will also look at the frequency and duration and whether the chair will be moved frequently.

Seating

In contrast to manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones come with motors that move them. This provides you with more mobility and greater range than a manual chair, but it does have some limitations and other aspects that you need to take into consideration.

First, you'll need to be aware of the capacity for weight of your new power chair. It doesn't matter if it's your own weight or the weight of any equipment or other items you're carrying, you must not exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit in order to avoid overloading the chair and damaging it.

Next, make sure your power chair has a comfortable seat and a footplate you can fit into. If there isn't enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it could shift your center of gravity to the back and cause the wheelchair to lunge.

Then, you should look for a power wheelchair with tilt and recline capabilities to help reduce the risk of getting pressure sores. This feature is particularly important for older people, whose skin may be thin and easily bruise. Additionally, leg rests with power can assist in elevating your legs and lessen swelling.





As with any mechanical device, your wheelchair will require maintenance to ensure it functions well and safely. You'll have to inspect the condition of your battery and tire pressure, brakes and other parts of the device on a regular basis. You should also check the seating for wear and make any adjustments that are needed.

You should also pay attention to the place you store your power wheelchair to ensure that it is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. Exposure to high temperatures can degrade the frame, while exposure to low temperatures may harm the battery as well as other electrical components.

Unless you're buying your wheelchair from a private source the wheelchair isn't covered by insurance and you won't be able return it if it doesn't satisfy your needs. Manufacturer warranties typically last between one and two years. They cover joysticks, motors, frames, and electronics but not back cushions, seats, or tires. Before buying an electric wheelchair, you should inquire with your supplier about the return policy. The most important thing to do is read the manual and follow the directions regarding use and maintenance.

Operation

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

The controller electronics, power base and controller can be customised to suit the needs of different users, with a variety of options available. For instance, some chairs offer customizable seating to help ensure a comfortable fit and let the user find the most suitable position to support the stability of their posture. A lot of chairs have adjustable features like leg rest, seat height and recline positions, in addition to power tilt functionality.

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

Some powerchairs also be adjusted in their speed to suit the individual's preferences or match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for example when climbing hills. Some powerchairs have sensors that warn them of dangers or obstacles nearby, and will automatically slow down and turn whenever necessary.

The position of the drive wheels, whether they're rear-wheels, mid-wheels or front-wheel drives, has a major influence on how a chair performs under different conditions. But that's a big topic that we'll save for a future Clinical Corner article.

Before you take your new electric wheelchair out for a spin, check that it's fully charged and that the tires have enough air pressure in them. To get ready for your first time it's best to make some adjustments to your chair, armrests, and footrests. It's essential to follow the instructions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is particularly important for driving up and down hills. This will lower the risk of discomfort and injuries.