Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
A wheelchair powered by electricity is a great option for people with limited mobility. These chairs are available at specialized mobility equipment providers and at some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance will pay for the cost of an electric wheelchair if determined to be medically necessary by a physician.
Most power wheelchairs come with an electronic joystick, which users can use to control the motors. These movements are converted into electrical signals by a controller which acts as the brain of the chair.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial aspect to take into consideration when shopping for wheelchairs. A good battery can last up to two years if maintained regularly and is regularly used. The type of battery affects how far the wheelchair can be able to travel on one 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. They can handle numerous recharges and discharges without damaging the cells in the battery. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommended charge practices. This includes charging the battery overnight and not the battery from running completely empty.
The battery's life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, which results in a longer battery longevity than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is driven over rough terrain, the motors have to work harder in order to maintain balance and speed, which consumes energy and drains battery faster.
A battery's longevity is also impacted by its age and use patterns. It could be time to replace the battery if it's becoming old and is losing its ability to hold charge. A newer battery can help reduce the amount of time that a wheelchair has to be charged, and it is more likely to have more capacity than older batteries.
Wheelchair batteries are available in several sizes including Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most popular selections. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than the Group 24 batteries. This helps to reduce the overall weight and size of a wheelchair. They have a smaller power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.
It is recommended to avoid overcharging or undercharging your battery, as this can cause it to shorten its life span. Keeping the battery in a dry, cool area is also crucial since exposure to extreme temperatures can negatively impact the battery's functionality.
Capacity of Weight
Weight capacity is an important aspect to consider when choosing a power wheelchair. If the chair is going to be used for long-distance trips the chair must be capable of supporting the weight of the user's body. Weight problems can result from excessive weight, which can also cause problems with battery life and accidents.
The weight of a power wheelchair differs from one model to the next and is influenced by the batteries it uses. It also is affected by the variety and types of accessories it comes with, such as oxygen tank holders and a variety of seating systems. However, the majority of its weight is derived from the batteries. A single battery can weigh as much as 50 pounds, and the majority of power chairs come with two batteries!
Whether the power chair has a two-pole motor or four-pole motor will also have an impact on its weight. A four-pole power chair is more efficient and it can support a greater weight capacity. However, it requires more energy and drain the batteries faster than a motor with just two poles.
Power wheelchairs may also come with different drive bases such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The position of the drive wheels could affect the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair under various conditions. The base of the drive may have a number of other options, like an adjustable controller that assists in side-transfers, and sip-and-puff controllers that work by blowing into a sensor.
Another consideration is the environment in which the power wheelchair is employed. It is crucial that the chair be used on various surfaces and be able to fit into rooms and hallways. It is essential to measure the doors and ensure that the chair can maneuver through them, including doors with hinges.
A physical therapist or a mobility specialist can help you choose the right wheelchair for your requirements. In addition to evaluating the weight of the chair, its speed and driving range, they can also advise on other factors such as comfort, accessibility modifications and the size of the seat. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration, and whether the chair is likely to be moved frequently.
Seating
Electric wheelchairs are powered by motors to move them, unlike manual wheelchairs. This allows you to move more freely and further than a manual wheelchair but there are a few limitations.
It is important to understand the weight capacity of your wheelchair. If it's your own personal weight or the weight of any equipment or items you're carrying, you must not exceed the manufacturer's suggested weight limit in order to avoid overloading 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 your feet aren't able to fit on the footplate of the power chair, your center of gravity could be moved backwards, and the chair will slouch.
Finally, look for a wheelchair that has tilt and recline features to reduce the chance of developing pressure sores. This feature is crucial for those who are elderly and whose skin may be thin and bruises easily. Additionally, leg rests with power can help raise your legs and decrease swelling.
As with any mechanical device the wheelchair will require maintenance to ensure that it operates efficiently and safely. You'll have to inspect the condition of the battery, brakes, tire pressure and other parts of the device regularly. It is also recommended to check the seating for wear and tear, and make any adjustments that are needed.
www.mymobilityscooters.uk is also important to pay attention to the location you place your power wheelchair in order to avoid exposing it to extreme weather conditions. The exposure to high temperatures can degrade the frame, while exposure to low temperatures could harm the battery as well as other electrical components.
If you're not purchasing your wheelchair out-of-pocket the wheelchair won't be insured and you won't be able to return it if it doesn't meet your needs. 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 supplier about the return policy. The most important thing is to review the user's manual thoroughly and follow all instructions on how to use and maintain the device.
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 one or two rechargeable 12-volt batteries that are connected in series, for 24 volts total. LITH-TECH provides lithium batteries that are more efficient in energy than lead acids and can be used for an extended period of time.
The controller electronics, power base and controller can be customized to meet the needs of different users, with numerous options available. Certain chairs permit customizable seating, which can help to ensure a comfortable fit. It also lets the user determine the best position that supports their postural stability. Many models include adjustable features such as the height of the seat, leg rest and recline positions, as well as the power tilt feature.
Electric powered wheelchairs can be fitted with a variety of extras. These include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs, and a wide range of accessories for power. Some powerchairs can even be customized so that the user can control them with their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Some powerchairs are able to adjust the speed to the preferences of the user, or to be synchronized with other vehicles on the road. For example when driving uphill. They can also be fitted with sensors that can warn of dangers or obstacles in the vicinity, and will automatically slow down or stop when necessary.
The position of the drive wheels, whether they're rear-wheels, mid-wheels or front-wheel drives has an enormous impact on how a chair performs under different conditions. However, that's a large topic that we'll save for a future Clinical Corner article.
Check that your new electric chair is fully charged and the tires are at the correct pressure prior to taking it for an excursion. To prepare for the 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 prior to operating your wheelchair. This is especially true when driving on and down hills. This will lower the risk of discomfort and injury.