Then You've Found Your Electric Powered Wheelchair ... Now What?

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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair

Electric powered wheelchairs can be an excellent assistance for those with mobility issues. They are available at major retailers and specialty mobility equipment providers. Medicare and private insurance may pay for the cost of an electric wheelchair if determined to be medically necessary by a doctor.

Most power wheelchairs come with a joystick that the user can use to control the motors. These movements are converted to electrical signals by a control unit that acts like the brain of the chair.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing wheelchairs. A quality battery will last for up to two years if used regularly and maintained properly. The type of battery also determines how far the wheelchair can travel on a single charge.

Deep cycle batteries are utilized in a majority of power wheelchairs. They provide a long lasting energy source. They can handle numerous recharges and discharges without damaging the cells in the battery. It is important to follow the recommended charging practices of the manufacturer. This includes charging the battery over a long period of time and not the battery from running completely empty.

The surface on the ground on which the wheelchair is operated can affect the battery's life. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, leading to longer battery life than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is driven on rough or uneven surfaces motors will have to work harder to maintain stability and speed, which consumes more energy and drains the battery more quickly.

The life expectancy of batteries is affected by its age and use patterns. It may be time to replace the battery if it's getting old and losing its ability to hold charge. A newer battery could 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 are available in a variety of sizes that include Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most popular options. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than the Group 24 batteries. This helps reduce the overall weight and size of the wheelchair. These batteries have a lower power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.

Avoid charging or subcharging the battery as it will reduce its life. The battery should be kept in a cool, dry place is also important because exposure to extreme temperatures could negatively impact the battery's functionality.

Capacity of Weight

Weight capacity is a key aspect to take into account when selecting a power wheelchair. If the chair will be used on long trips and long trips, then it should be able to support the user's weight. Weight problems can be caused by excessive weight, which could cause problems with battery life and accidents.

The weight of a power wheelchair differs from one model to the next and is affected by its batteries. The weight of a power wheelchair is also affected by the amount of accessories and the type of accessories, such as oxygen tanks holders as well as different seating systems. The batteries make up the majority of the weight. A single battery can weigh as much as 50 pounds, and the majority of power chairs come with two batteries!

The weight of the power wheelchair can also be dependent on whether it has a four-pole or two-pole engine. A four-pole motor is more efficient and has greater capacity of weight. However, it requires more energy from the batteries, and can drain faster than a two-pole.

Power wheelchairs also be equipped with different base drives, such as rear-wheel drive or mid-wheel drive. The position of the wheels can impact its handling and maneuverability under various conditions. The drive base may offer a range of options, like an adjustable swing-away control that assists with side-transfers and sip-and-puff controls that operate by blowing air on a sensor.

Another factor website to consider is the setting in which the power wheelchair is utilized. It's essential that the chair is able to move across different terrains and be able to fit into hallways and rooms. It is essential to measure the doors and make sure that the chair can move through them, including those with hinged doors.

A physical therapist or mobility specialist can help you choose the right wheelchair to meet your needs. They can advise on factors like comfort, accessibility modifications as well as the size of the seat and weight of the wheelchair. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration of use as well as if the chair will be transported frequently.

Seating

Unlike manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones are powered by motors that move them. This provides you with more mobility and a greater range than a manual one, but it does have some limitations and additional factors that you need to take into consideration.

In the beginning, you'll need be aware of the capacity for weight of your new power chair. If it's your own personal weight or the weight of any equipment or supplies that you're carrying, it is important to not exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit to avoid overtaxing the chair and damaging it.

Make sure that your power chair is comfortable and has an appropriate footplate that you are able to fit into. If your feet aren't able to fit on the footplate of the power chair your center of gravity will be reversed and the wheelchair will lunge.

Look for a power chair that has reclining and tilt functions to reduce the risk of developing pressure sores. This feature is especially important for seniors, whose skin can be thin and easily bruise. Additionally, leg rests with power can assist in elevating your legs and decrease swelling.

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

It is important to place your electric chair in a location that will not expose it check here to extreme weather conditions. The exposure to high temperatures can affect the frame's condition, while exposure to low temperatures may harm the battery as well as other electrical components.

Unless you're buying the wheelchair out of pocket, it will not be insured and you won't be able to return it if it doesn't meet your requirements. Manufacturers' warranties typically last between one and two years. They include joysticks, motors frames, and electronic components, but not back cushions, seats or tires. Before purchasing an electric wheelchair, inquire with your provider about the return policy. Most importantly, go through the user's manual and follow the instructions regarding the use and maintenance of the device.

Operation

The motor of a power wheelchair is located in the power base. It is located underneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by one or two rechargeable 12-volt batteries in series, giving 24 volts in total. LITH-TECH has lithium batteries which are much more energy efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer durations of time.

Many options are available to modify the controller, electronics, and power base to meet the requirements of every user. For instance, some chairs can be customized to help ensure a comfortable fit and allow the user to find the most suitable position to support the stability of their posture. Many chairs come with adjustable features, such as seat height, leg rest and recline positions, as well as the power tilt feature.

There are a variety of additional features that are available for electric powered wheelchairs, such as oxygen tank holders, elevated seats, and a variety of power accessories. Some powerchairs can also be customized to allow the user to control them with their own brainwaves or nerve signals.

Some powerchairs also be able to adjust their speed to suit the preferences of the user or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for instance when driving up hills. Certain powerchairs come with sensors that alert them to obstacles or other potential hazards nearby, and they will automatically slow down and swerve when necessary.

The location of the drive wheels - whether they are rear-wheel, mid-wheel or front-wheel drive - has a big impact on how a chair performs in different conditions. This is a massive topic, so we'll leave it for a later Clinical Corner.

Check that your brand new electric chair is fully charged and that the tires are inflated to the right pressure before you take it for an excursion. To get ready for your first time it's best to make some adjustments to your chair, armrests, and footrests. Be sure to follow the directions in the manual when operating your wheelchair, especially when driving up and down slopes. This will minimise the risk of injury, damage or discomfort.