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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair

An electric powered wheelchair can be very beneficial for those with mobility issues. These chairs are sold at major stores and specialist mobility equipment suppliers. Medicare and private insurance may pay for the cost of an electric wheelchair if it's deemed medically necessary by a doctor.

The majority of power wheelchairs come with an electronic joystick that the user moves to direct the motors. The controller, which functions as the brain of the wheelchair, converts these movements into electrical signals.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial aspect to take into consideration when buying a wheelchair. A high-quality battery can last for up to two years if it is regularly used and maintained. The type of battery determines how far the wheelchair can be able to travel on one charge.

Deep cycle batteries are found in a majority of power wheelchairs. They provide a long lasting energy supply. They can handle a variety of recharges and discharges without causing damage to battery cells. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommended charging practices, which typically include charging the battery over the course of a night and avoiding letting it run completely empty.

The battery's life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth, level surfaces use less power to propel the chair, leading to longer battery life. If the wheelchair is driven on rough or bumpy terrain, the motors need to work harder to maintain balance and speed, which consumes energy and drains battery faster.

The condition of a battery and the way it is used can influence its lifespan. It is possible to replace a battery if it is getting old and is losing its ability to keep charge. A newer battery will decrease the time required to charge a wheelchair and will likely to be more powerful.

Wheelchair batteries come in various sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. Group 22NF batteries are smaller and lighter than Group 24 batteries, helping in reducing the weight and size of a power wheelchair. These batteries have a smaller power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.

Beware of overcharging or subcharging your battery, as this can reduce the battery's lifespan. It is essential to keep the battery in a dry, cool place, as extreme temperatures can alter the battery's performance.

Capacity of Weight

Weight capacity is a key aspect to consider when choosing the best power wheelchair. If the chair will be used for long journeys the chair must be able to support the user's weight. Excessive weight can lead to structural issues, a decrease in battery life, and an increased chance of causing accidents.

The weight of a power chair varies between models and is influenced by its batteries. It is also impacted by the amount and type of accessories it has, such as oxygen tank holders and a variety of seating systems. The batteries account for the majority of its weight. A single battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs, and most power chairs come with two batteries!

The power wheelchair's either a four-pole or two-pole motor could have an impact on its weight. A four-pole power chair is more efficient and it can support the weight of a larger capacity. However, it will require more energy and drain batteries more quickly than a motor with two poles.

Power wheelchairs could also come with different drive bases such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The location of the drive wheels could affect the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair in various conditions. The drive base can also offer a range of options, such as a swing-away control that helps with side-transfers or sip-and puff controls that work by blowing on the sensor.

The setting in which a power wheelchair is used is another consideration. It is crucial that the chair can travel across a variety of terrains and be able to fit in hallways and rooms. It's important to measure doors and ensure that the chair is able to maneuver through them, including those with 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 along with the size, shape, and weight of the wheelchair. They also take into account the frequency and duration of use, and whether the chair is transported frequently.

Seating

Electric wheelchairs are powered by motors to move them, unlike manual wheelchairs. This gives you more mobility and a greater range than a manual one, but it comes with some limitations and other aspects to consider.

First, you'll need to determine the capacity of your wheelchair's weight. You should never exceed the recommended weight limit, regardless of whether it's you or any other equipment or items that you're carrying.

Next, make sure the power chair you choose has a comfortable seat and a footplate that you can fit comfortably into. If your feet aren't able to fit onto the footplate of the power chair, your center of gravity could be reversed and the chair will slouch.

Also, consider a wheelchair that has tilt and recline features to reduce the risk of pressure sores. This feature is essential for those who are elderly and whose skin may be fragile and easily bruises. Moreover, power leg rests can help elevate your legs and lessen swelling.

Like any other mechanical device it will require regular maintenance to ensure that it performs efficiently and safely. You'll need to check the battery and tire pressure, brakes, and other parts of your wheelchair frequently. Also, you should inspect the seating for wear and tear and make any necessary adjustments.

You should also pay attention to where you place your power wheelchair in order 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.

If you don't purchase your wheelchair from a private source, it isn't covered by insurance and you won't have the option to return it if it's not meeting your needs. Manufacturer warranties typically last from one to two years and cover motors, electronics, joysticks and frames, but not the seats, back cushions or tires. Before buying an electric wheelchair, ask your supplier about the return policy. The most important thing is to read the user manual and follow all instructions on how to use and maintain the device.

Operation

The motor of a power wheelchair is located in the power base. This is underneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered either by two 12-volt rechargeable batteries connected in series to produce an overall 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 and lightweight power chair base can be customised to suit the needs of various users, with many options available. For example, some chairs offer customizable seating to ensure a comfortable fit and let the user find the best position for postural stability. Many models also include adjustable seat height as well as recline and leg rest positions, and the power tilt feature.

Small electric wheelchair for indoors uk powered wheelchairs can come with a variety of extras. These include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs electric and a wide range of power accessories. Some wheelchairs can be customised to let the user control them with their own brainwaves or nerve signals.

Some powerchairs have the ability to alter the speed according to the preferences of the user, or to be synchronized with other vehicles on the road. For example, when driving uphill. Some powerchairs are equipped with sensors that alert them to dangers or obstacles nearby, and will automatically slow down and stop when necessary.

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

Check that your new electric chair is fully charged and the tires are at the right pressure prior to going for an outing. It's also recommended to adjust the armrests, seat, footrests (if necessary) and joystick to prepare it for first time use. It's essential to follow the directions in the manual before operating your wheelchair. This is especially important when driving on and down hills. This will reduce the risk of discomfort and injuries.