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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair

Electric powered wheelchairs can be a huge assistance for those with mobility issues. They are available at major stores and specialist mobility equipment providers. 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 feature an instrument that users use to direct the motors. The controller, acting as the brain of the wheelchair, converts these movements into electrical signals.

Battery Life

When looking for a power wheelchair one of the most important aspects to consider is the battery's life. A good battery can last up to two years if regularly used and maintained. The type of battery affects how far a wheelchair will travel on a single charge.

The majority of power wheelchairs have deep cycle batteries, which are designed to provide a long-lasting power supply. These batteries can handle multiple recharges and discharges without causing damage to battery cells. It is crucial to adhere to 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 surface on which the wheelchair operates also affects the battery's longevity. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the chair, which results in longer battery life. If a wheelchair is used on rough or uneven surfaces the motors will need to be more efficient in order to maintain stability and speed which means that they consume more energy and drains the battery more quickly.

A battery's longevity is also affected by its age and usage patterns. It may be time to replace the battery if it's becoming old and losing its capacity to keep charge. A newer battery will cut down on the time it takes to charge a wheelchair and will likely to have more capacity.

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, which help in reducing the weight and size of a power wheelchair. However, they have lower power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.

It is important to avoid overcharging or undercharging the battery because this can result in a decrease in its lifespan. It is crucial to keep the battery in a dry, cool place, as extreme temperatures can impact the functionality of the battery.

Weight Capacity

light weight electric wheelchair capacity is an important aspect to take into account when selecting a power wheelchair. If the chair will be used for long-distance trips the chair must be able to support a user's weight. Overweight can lead to structural problems, reduced battery life, and a higher risk of accidents.

The weight of a power wheelchair differs between models and is affected by its batteries. It is also impacted by the variety and types of additional accessories it has, such as oxygen tank holders and a variety of seating systems. However, most of its weight is derived from the batteries. A single battery can weigh up to 50 pounds, and a majority of lightweight power chair chairs have two!

Whether the power chair has either a four-pole or two-pole motor will also affect its weight. A four-pole power wheelchair is more efficient and it can support the weight of a larger capacity. It will however require more energy and drain the batteries more quickly than a motor with just two poles.

Power wheelchairs could also come with different drive bases such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The position of the wheels can affect its maneuverability and handling in various conditions. The drive base may also have a number of other options, such as a swing-away controller which aids in side-transfers and sip-and-puff controls which work by blowing on a sensor.

The setting in which a power wheelchair is used is an additional consideration. It is important that the chair can be used on various terrains and can be fitted into hallways and rooms. It is crucial to measure the doors and make sure that the chair can navigate through them, even those with hinged doors.

A physical therapist or mobility specialist can help you choose the best power chair to meet your needs. In addition to assessing the wheelchair's weight, speed and range of travel They can also offer advice on other factors such as accessibility, comfort and the size of the seat. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration of use as well as whether the chair will be frequently transported.

Seating

In contrast to manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones are powered by motors that move them. This provides you with more mobility and greater mobility than a manual one, but it does have some limitations and other aspects to consider.

First, you'll need to understand the weight capacity of your new power chair. It is important to never exceed the recommended weight limit, regardless of whether it's you or any equipment or supplies that you're carrying.

Make sure that the chair you select includes a comfortable footplate as well as a seat that you can fit in. If your feet do not fit into the footplate of the power chair, your center of gravity could be shifted backwards and the chair will slouch.

Also, consider a power wheelchair that has tilt and recline features to decrease the chance of developing pressure sores. This feature is important for older people whose skin could be thin and bruises easily. Leg rests that are powered are a great way to elevate your legs, which will reduce swelling.

Like all mechanical devices the wheelchair will require maintenance to ensure that it operates efficiently and safely. You'll have to inspect the battery condition, 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 power chair in a place that is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. Exposure to high temperatures can cause damage to the frame, whereas exposure to low temperatures could cause damage to the battery and other electrical components.

If you don't purchase your wheelchair from your pocket, there won't be insurance coverage and you wont be able return it if you find it does not meet your requirements. Manufacturers' warranties usually last between one and two years. They include joysticks, motors frames, and electronic components, but not seats, back cushions or tires. Ask your provider about their return policies prior to you purchase an electric wheelchair. The most important thing is to read the manual thoroughly and follow the instructions for use and maintenance.

Operation

Power wheelchairs are driven by a motor in the power base, which sits beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by two or one rechargeable 12-volt batteries in series, resulting in 24 volts in total. LITH-TECH provides 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 power base can be customised to suit the requirements of different users, with a variety of options available. For example, some chairs offer customizable seating to ensure a comfy fit and let the user choose a position that best supports the stability of their posture. A lot of models also have adjustable height of the seat, recline and leg rests, as well as power tilt functionality.

There are a myriad of extra features offered for electric powered wheelchairs, including oxygen tank holders, elevating seats and a range of power accessories. Certain powerchairs are customized to allow the user to control them using their brainwaves or nerve signal.

Some powerchairs also have the capability to adjust their speed according to the user's preference or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for instance when driving up hills. They can also be equipped with sensors that can warn of dangers or obstacles in the vicinity and will then automatically slow down or stop in the event of a need.

The position of the drive wheels - whether they're front-wheel, mid-wheel or rear-wheel drive - can have a huge impact on how the chair performs under different conditions. However, that's a large topic that we'll save for another Clinical Corner article.

Before you take your new electric wheelchair for a spin, check that it's fully charged and the tires have enough air pressure in them. It's also a good idea to make a few adjustments to the seat, armrests, footrests (if appropriate) and joystick to prepare it for first use. Remember that it's important to follow the directions in the manual when operating your wheelchair, especially when driving down and up slopes. This reduces the chance of discomfort and injury.