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 manufacturers. Medicare and private insurance may pay for the cost of an electrical wheelchair if a doctor deems it medically essential.

The majority of power wheelchairs come with an electronic joystick, which users can use to control the motors. These movements are converted into electrical signals by a control unit that acts as the brain of the chair.

Battery Life

When shopping for a power wheelchair one of the most important factors to consider is battery life. A quality battery will last for up to two years if it is maintained regularly and is regularly used. The type of battery also affects how far the wheelchair can travel on a single charge.

Deep cycle batteries are found in the majority of power wheelchairs. They offer a long-lasting energy source. They can handle a variety of recharges and discharges without causing damage battery cells. It is crucial to adhere to the recommendations of the manufacturer for charging that typically include overnight charging of the battery and avoiding letting it run completely empty.

The battery's life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth, level surfaces require less energy to propel the chair, leading to longer battery life. If a wheelchair is driven on rough or uneven surfaces, the motors will have to be more efficient in order to maintain stability and speed, which consumes more energy and drains the battery quicker.

The condition of a battery and its usage pattern can also influence its lifespan. It is possible to replace batteries if they are becoming old and losing its capacity to hold charge. A newer battery will decrease the amount of time a wheelchair needs to be charged, and is more likely to have more capacity than older batteries.

Wheelchair batteries are available in several sizes, with Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most well-known options. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than Group 24 batteries. This reduces the weight and size of the wheelchair. These batteries have a lower power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.

It is also a good idea to avoid charging too much or undercharging the battery as this can result in a decrease in its lifespan. It is important to keep the battery in a cool, dry area, since extreme temperatures can affect the functionality of the battery.

Capacity of Weight

Weight capacity is a key aspect to consider when choosing a power wheelchair. If the chair is going to be used for long-distance trips the chair must be able to support the weight of the person. Weight problems are often caused by excess weight, which can cause problems with battery life and accidents.

The weight of a power wheelchair varies between models and is influenced by its batteries. The weight of a power wheelchair is also affected by the amount of accessories and the kind of accessories, including oxygen tanks holders as well as different seating systems. However, most of its weight comes from the batteries. One battery can weigh up to 50 pounds on its own and a power chair usually has two of them!

The weight of a power wheelchair can also be affected by the type of engine it is a four-pole or two-pole engine. A four-pole power wheelchair is more efficient, and can carry a greater weight capacity. However, it requires more energy from the batteries and may drain faster than a two-pole.

Power wheelchairs can also have different drive bases, such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The position of the drive wheels could affect its handling and maneuverability in a variety of conditions. The drive base may also have a number of other options, like an adjustable controller that assists in side-transfers and sip-and-puff controls that operate by blowing into a sensor.

The environment where a power chair is used is another factor to take into consideration. It is essential that the chair is able to be used on various terrains and fit into hallways and rooms. It's important to measure doorways and ensure that the chair is able to maneuver through them, including doors with hinges.

A physical therapist or mobility specialist can assist you in choosing the best power chair to meet your needs. They can provide advice on aspects such as comfort, accessibility adjustments, seat size, and weight of the wheelchair. They will also consider the frequency and duration of use and whether the chair will be moved regularly.

Seating

Unlike manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones are powered by motors that move them. This lets you move more easily and farther than a manual one, however, there are some limitations.

It is important to understand the weight capacity of your wheelchair. You shouldn't exceed the weight limit of your power chair's recommended limit, whether it's you or any other equipment or items that you're carrying.

Make sure that the chair you select has a comfortable footplate and an armchair that you can fit in. If there isn't enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it may shift your center of gravity forward and cause the chair to move.

Find a power chair that has reclining and tilt functions to minimize the risk of developing pressure sores. This feature is particularly important for older people, whose skin can be thin and bruise easily. Additionally, leg rests with power can help elevate your legs and reduce swelling.

Like any mechanical device, will need regular maintenance in order to operate properly and safely. You'll need to inspect the battery as well as the tire pressure, brakes and other parts of your wheelchair regularly. It is also recommended to check the seating for wear and tear, and make any necessary adjustments.

Be attentive to the place you place your power wheelchair in order to ensure that it is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. The frame could be damaged by high temperatures, whereas low temperatures can harm batteries and electrical components.

If you're not purchasing the wheelchair out of pocket the wheelchair won't be insured and you won't have the option to 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 back cushions, seats or tires. Check with your supplier for their return policy before you purchase an electric wheel chairs wheelchair. The most important thing is to go through the user's manual and follow all the directions on how to use and maintain the device.

Operation

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

There are a variety of options to customize the controller, electronics, and power base to meet the specific needs of each user. Certain chairs permit customizable seating, which can help to ensure an ideal fit. It also allows the user to determine the best position that allows them to maintain their postural stability. Many chairs come with adjustable features, such as the height of the seat, leg rest and recline positions, in addition to the power tilt feature.

There are many additional extras that are available for electric powered wheelchairs including oxygen tank holders, elevated seats, and a variety of power accessories. Certain powerchairs are customized to allow the user to control them using their brainwaves or nerve signal.

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 nearby, and they will automatically slow down and stop when necessary.

The positioning of the drive wheels - whether front-wheel, rear-wheel, or mid-wheel drive - has a big impact on the way the chair performs under various situations. This is a massive issue, so we'll leave it to a future Clinical Corner.

Before you take your new electric wheelchair for an outing, make sure it's fully charged and that the tires have enough air pressure in them. In preparation for your first time, it's a good idea make some adjustments to your chair, armrests, and footrests. It's essential to follow the directions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is especially true when driving on and down hills. This reduces the risk of injury, damage, and discomfort.