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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair A wheelchair powered by electricity is a great option for individuals who have a limited mobility. These chairs are available at specialty mobility equipment suppliers and at some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance may cover the cost of an electric wheelchair if a doctor deems it medically essential. The majority of power wheelchairs come with a joystick that the user uses to direct the motors. The controller, acting as the brain of the wheelchair converts these movements into electrical signals. Battery Life Battery life is a crucial aspect to consider when shopping for wheelchairs. A good battery will last for up to two years if it is regularly used and maintained. The type of battery can also influence the distance a wheelchair can travel on a single charge. Deep cycle batteries are utilized in the majority of power wheelchairs. They offer a long-lasting energy source. They can handle a variety of discharges and recharges without causing damage to the battery cells. It is essential to follow the guidelines of the manufacturer for charging. This includes charging the battery over a long period of time and avoiding leaving it running at a complete loss. The battery's life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth flat surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, resulting in a longer battery longevity than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is used on rough or uneven surfaces, the motors will have to perform harder to maintain stability and speed and this consumes more energy and drains the battery more quickly. The life expectancy of batteries is affected by the age of the battery and its usage. If a battery has become old and starting to lose its capacity to keep an charge, it could be time for a replacement. A newer battery can help reduce the amount of time that a wheelchair has to be charged, and it is more likely to have a greater capacity than older batteries. Wheelchair batteries come in a variety of 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 a power wheelchair. However, they have a lower power or “juice” reserve than Group 24 batteries. It is important to avoid overcharging or undercharging the battery, because this can cause it to shorten its life span. Maintaining the battery in a dry, cool location is also essential since exposure to extreme temperatures can negatively impact the battery's functionality. Capacity for Weight The weight capacity of a power chair is a crucial aspect to consider. If the chair is used for long-distance trips the chair must be able to support a user's weight. Weight issues can result from excessive weight, which could result in problems with battery life and accidents. The weight of a power wheelchair varies from model to model and is affected by the type of batteries it uses. The weight of a wheelchair is also affected by the amount of accessories and the type of accessories, including oxygen tanks holders and various seating systems. The batteries account for the bulk of its weight. A single battery can weigh up to 50 lbs, and most power chairs come with two batteries! The weight of a power wheelchair can be affected by the type of engine it is either a two-pole or four-pole motor. A four-pole motor is more efficient and has more capacity of weight. However, it will require more energy and drain batteries more quickly than a motor with two poles. Power wheelchairs also have different drive bases, like 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 base of the drive may have a number of other options, like a swing-away controller that aids in side-transfers, and sip-and-puff controllers that operate by blowing into the sensor. Another factor to consider is the setting where the power wheelchair will be used. It is crucial that the chair is able to be used on different terrains and can be fitted into rooms and hallways. It's important to measure doors and ensure that the chair can navigate through them, even doors with hinges. A physical therapist or a mobility specialist can help you select the right wheelchair to meet your needs. In addition to assessing the wheelchair's weight, speed and driving range They can also offer advice on other aspects such as comfort, accessibility modifications and seat size. They will also take into consideration the frequency and duration of use, and whether the chair is transported frequently. Seating In contrast to manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones are powered by motors that move them. electric wheelchairs for independence allows you to move more freely and further than a manual wheelchair, however, there are some limitations. First, you'll need to know the capacity 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 should not exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit to prevent overtaxing the power chair and creating damage. Make sure that the power chair you pick has a comfortable footplate and a seat that you can fit in. If there isn't enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it can shift your center of gravity forward and cause the chair to lunge. Find a power chair that has reclining and tilt functions to lower the chance of developing pressure sores. This feature is important for seniors whose skin can be thin and bruises easily. Power leg rests are also an excellent way to raise your legs, which can reduce swelling. Like any other mechanical device the wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure that it performs efficiently and safely. You'll need to examine the condition of the battery as well as brakes, tire pressure and other parts of the device frequently. Also, you should inspect the seating for wear and tear, and make any necessary adjustments. It is crucial to place your electric chair in a place which isn't exposed to extreme weather conditions. Exposure to high temperatures can cause damage to the frame, whereas exposure to low temperatures may cause damage to the battery and other electrical components. Unless you're buying your wheelchair out-of-pocket, it isn't covered by insurance and you won't have the option to return it if it's not meeting your requirements. Manufacturer warranties typically last between one and two years. They cover joysticks, motors, frames, and electronic components, but not seats, back cushions or tires. Before purchasing an electric wheelchair, you should inquire with your provider about the return policy. The most important thing is to read the manual thoroughly and follow the directions for use and maintenance. Operation Power wheelchairs are driven by a motor inside the power base, which sits beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by two 12-volt rechargeable batteries connected in series, for an overall voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries, which are more energy efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer periods of time. The controller, electronics and power base can be customised to suit the needs of different users, with a variety of options available. For instance, certain chairs have adjustable seating to help ensure a comfortable fit and allow the user to find the most suitable position to support postural stability. A lot of models also have adjustable heights for the seat as well as recline and leg rest positions, as well as power tilt functionality. Electric powered wheelchairs can be fitted with a range of accessories. They include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs, and a wide range of accessories for power. Some powerchairs are customised to allow users to control them by using brainwaves or nerve signal. Some powerchairs have the ability to alter the speed according to the preferences of the user, or to match other vehicles on the road. For instance, when driving uphill. Some powerchairs are equipped with sensors that alert them to obstacles or other potential hazards nearby, and will automatically slow down and stop whenever necessary. 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. However, that's a large issue that we'll keep for a future Clinical Corner article. Before taking your new electric wheelchair out for the first time, ensure that it's fully charged, and that the tires have enough air pressure in them. To get ready for your first time, it's a good idea 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 injury and discomfort.