Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
Electric powered wheelchairs can be an excellent assistance for those with limited mobility. You can find these chairs at specialized mobility equipment providers and some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance will pay for the cost of an electric scooter wheelchair wheelchair if it’s deemed medically necessary by a doctor.
The majority of power wheelchairs come with a joystick, which users can use to control the motors. These actions are converted into electrical signals by a controller which acts as the brain of the chair.
Battery Life
When you are looking for a new power wheelchair, one of the most important aspects to consider is battery life. A good battery will last for up to two years if regularly used and maintained. The type of battery also affects how far the wheelchair can travel on a single charge.
The majority of power wheelchairs utilize deep cycle batteries, which are designed to last for a long time and provide a steady energy supply. These batteries can handle multiple recharges and discharges without damaging the cells of the battery. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended charging practices that typically include charging the battery overnight and avoiding letting it run completely empty.
The surface on which the wheelchair operates also affects the battery’s longevity. Smooth smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, resulting in longer battery life than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is driven on rocky or bumpy surfaces the motors will need to work harder to maintain speed and stability, which consumes more energy and drains the battery more quickly.
A battery’s longevity is also affected by its age and usage patterns. If a battery is getting old and losing its capacity to keep the charge, it might be time to replace it. A newer battery will decrease the time it takes to charge a wheelchair and is likely to be more powerful.
Wheelchair batteries come in various sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. Group 22NF batteries are lighter and smaller than Group 24 batteries, which helps in reducing the weight and size of the power wheelchair. However, they have a lower power or “juice” reserve than Group 24 batteries.
Avoid charging or subcharging the battery as this will shorten its life. Keeping the battery in a dry, cool area is also crucial, as exposure to extreme temperatures could adversely affect the battery’s function.
Weight Capacity
The capacity to support the weight of a power chair is a key factor to consider. If the chair is going to be used for long journeys the chair must be able to support a user’s weight. Overweight can lead to structural issues, a decrease in battery life, and a higher chance of accidents.
The weight of a power wheelchair varies from one model to another and is influenced by the batteries it uses. The weight of a wheelchair is also affected by the amount of accessories as well as the type of accessories, like oxygen tanks holders as well as different seating systems. The batteries are responsible for the majority of the weight. One battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs by itself and a power chair usually has two of them!
The weight of the power wheelchair can be affected by whether it has a four-pole or two-pole engine. A four-pole motor is more efficient and has a higher weight capacity. However, it requires more energy from the batteries and could drain faster than a two-pole motor.
Power wheelchairs also come with various base drives, such as rear-wheel drive or mid-wheel drive. The location of the wheels can impact the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair in different conditions. The base of the drive may have a number of other options, like a swing-away controller which aids in side-transfers as well as sip-and puff controls that operate by blowing into a sensor.
The setting in which a power wheelchair is used is a different aspect to consider. It is essential that the chair can be used on different terrains and can be fitted into hallways and rooms. It is essential to measure the doorways and ensure that the chair can easily navigate through them, even those with hinged doors.
A mobility specialist or physical therapist can help you select the right wheelchair to meet your requirements. They can provide advice on aspects like comfort, accessibility modifications along with the size, shape, and weight of the wheelchair. They will also take into consideration the frequency and duration of use and if the chair will be frequently transported.
Seating
Unlike manual wheelchairs, attendant controlled electric power wheelchair powered ones come with motors that move them. This lets you move more easily and farther than a manual wheelchair, but there are a few limitations.
First, you’ll need to be aware of the capacity for weight of your new chair. You shouldn’t exceed your power chair’s recommended weight limit, regardless of whether it’s you or any equipment or other items that you’re carrying.
Make sure that your power chair includes a comfortable seat as well as a footplate that you can fit into. If your feet do not fit on the footplate of the power chair, your center gravity can be shifted backwards and the wheelchair will lunge.
Then, you should look for a power wheelchair with tilt and recline capabilities to help reduce the chance of developing pressure sores. This feature is important for older people whose skin could be fragile and easily bruises. Leg rests with power are a great way to elevate your legs, which will reduce swelling.
Like any other mechanical device the wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure that it operates efficiently and safely. You’ll have to inspect the condition of the battery and tire pressure, brakes and other components of the device regularly. You should also check the seating for wear and make any adjustments that are needed.
It is also important to pay attention to where you store your power wheelchair to avoid exposing it to extreme weather conditions. The frame could be damaged by high temperatures, and low temperatures can damage the battery and its electrical components.
If you’re not purchasing the wheelchair out of pocket it isn’t insured and you won’t be able return it if it doesn’t meet your requirements. Manufacturers’ warranties typically last between one and two years. They cover joysticks, motors, frames, and electronic components but not seats, back cushions, or tires. Before buying an electric wheelchair, inquire with your provider about the return policy. The most important thing to do is read the manual thoroughly and follow the instructions regarding maintenance and use.
Operation
Power wheelchairs are powered by a motor within the power base that is located beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by rechargeable batteries that are 12 volts connected in series to produce total voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH has lithium batteries that are much more energy efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer periods of time.
The controller electronics, power base and controller can be customized to meet the requirements of different users, with a variety of options available. Certain chairs electric offer individual seating that can aid in ensuring an ideal fit. It also allows the user to find the position that best will help their posture. Many models also come with adjustable seat height, recline and leg rest positions as well as the ability to tilt with power.
There are a myriad of extra features that are available for bariatric electric wheelchair powered wheelchairs including oxygen tank holders, elevating seats and a range of power accessories. Some powerchairs can even be customized to let the user control them by using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Some powerchairs have the ability to adjust the speed according to the preferences of the user, or to match other vehicles on the road. For example when driving uphill. Certain powerchairs come with sensors that alert them to obstacles or other potential hazards close by, and they automatically slow down and turn when needed.
The location of the drive wheels, whether they are rear-wheels, mid-wheels or front-wheel drives have a major impact on the performance of a chair under various conditions. However, that’s a large subject that we’ll leave for another Clinical Corner article.
Before taking your new electric wheelchairs for sale near me wheelchair out for an outing, make sure it’s fully charged, and that the tires have enough air pressure in them. To prepare for the first time it’s best to make some adjustments to your chair, armrests, and footrests. It is essential to follow the instructions in the manual before operating your wheelchair. This is especially true when driving on and down hills. This will minimise the chance of injury, damage, and discomfort.