How To Save Money On Electric Powered Wheelchair
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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
Electric powered wheelchairs can be a huge aid to those with mobility issues. They are available at major stores and specialist mobility equipment providers. Medicare and private insurance will pay for the cost of an electric wheelchair if it's considered medically necessary by a doctor.
Most power wheelchairs come with a joystick that users can use to control the motors. The controller, which acts as the brain of the wheelchair converts these movements into electrical signals.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important aspect to take into consideration when shopping for wheelchairs. A high-quality battery can last for up to two years with regular usage and proper maintenance. The type of battery affects how far the wheelchair can travel on a single charge.
The majority of power wheelchairs have 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 harming the cells in the battery. It is essential to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer for charging which usually include charging the battery over the course of a night and avoiding allowing it to run completely empty.
The battery life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, leading to longer battery life than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is driven over rough terrain, the motors have to work harder to maintain speed and balance which consumes energy and drains battery faster.
A battery's longevity is also affected by its age and use patterns. If a battery has become old and is losing its capacity to keep a charge, it may be time for a replacement. A newer battery will decrease the time it takes to charge a wheelchair and is likely to be more powerful.
Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes that include Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most popular options. Group 22NF batteries are smaller and lighter than Group 24 batteries, which help to decrease the overall weight and dimensions of the power wheelchair. However, these batteries have less power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
Beware of overcharging or subcharging your battery as it will reduce its life. The battery should be kept in a dry, cool location is also essential since exposure to extreme temperatures could affect the battery's performance.
Capacity for Weight
Weight capacity is an important aspect to take into account when selecting a power wheelchair. If the chair will be used on long trips, then it must be able to support a user's weight. Weight issues can be caused by excessive weight, which could lead to problems with battery life and accidents.
The weight of a power wheelchair 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 the weight. One battery can weigh up to 50 lbs by itself, and a power chair typically has two batteries!
The weight of the power wheelchair can also be affected by whether it has either a two-pole or four-pole motor. A four-pole motor is more efficient and can provide a higher capacity of weight. It will however require more energy and drain batteries more quickly than a motor that has two poles.
Power wheelchairs may also have different drive bases, like 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, including a swing-away control that helps with side-transfers and sip-and-puff controls that work by blowing air on the sensor.
The setting that a power wheelchair is used is an additional aspect to consider. It is essential that the chair can be used on a variety of terrains and fit into rooms and hallways. It is crucial to measure the doorways and ensure that the chair is able to navigate through them, even those with hinged doors.
A physical therapist or a mobility specialist can help you select the right wheelchair to meet your requirements. They can advise on factors such as comfort, accessibility adjustments as well as the size of the seat and the weight of the chair. They will also consider the frequency and best electric wheelchair uk duration of use, and if the chair will be frequently transported.
Seating
As opposed to manual wheelchairs powered ones have motors that move them. This lets you move more freely and farther than a manual wheelchair however, there are a few limitations.
You'll first need to know the weight capacity of your chair. If it's your own personal weight or the weight of any equipment or items that you're carrying, it is important to never exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit to avoid overtaxing the chair and creating damage.
Make sure that your chosen power chair includes a comfortable seat as well as a footplate that you can fit into. If your feet don't fit on the footplate of the power chair, your center of gravity could 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 important for those who are elderly and whose skin may be thin and bruises easily. Additionally, leg rests with power can assist in elevating your legs and reduce swelling.
Like all mechanical devices the wheelchair will require maintenance to ensure it functions safely and efficiently. You'll need to inspect the battery and tire pressure, brakes and other components 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 keep your power wheelchair so that you don't expose it to extreme weather conditions. Exposure to high temperatures can cause damage to the frame, whereas exposure to low temperatures could damage the battery and other electrical components.
Unless you're buying the wheelchair out of pocket it won't be covered by insurance and you won't be able return it if it doesn't satisfy your needs. Warranties from manufacturers typically last between one and two years and cover motors electronic, joysticks, and electronics frames, but not the cushions on the back, seats or tires. Ask your supplier about their return policies before you purchase an electric wheelchair. The most important thing to do is read the manual and follow the instructions regarding use and maintenance.
Operation
Power wheelchairs are driven by a motor inside the base of power that sits under 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 has lithium batteries that are much more energy efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer durations of time.
There are a variety of options for customizing the controller, electronics and power base to meet the specific needs of every user. For instance, some chairs have adjustable seating to ensure a comfortable fit and let the user choose a position that best supports the stability of their posture. Many models include adjustable features like seat height, leg rest and recline positions, as well the ability to tilt with power.
Electric powered wheelchairs can be fitted with a wide range of additional features. These include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs and a wide range of power accessories. Some wheelchairs can be customized to let the user control them by using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Certain powerchairs be able to adjust their speed to suit the user's preference or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for example when climbing hills. They can also be fitted with sensors that alert you to dangers and obstacles in the area, and will automatically slow down or swerve if necessary.
The location of the drive wheels, whether they are mid-wheels, rear-wheels or front-wheel drives have a major influence on how a chair performs under different conditions. This is a massive issue, so we'll leave it for a later Clinical Corner.
Before you take your new electric wheelchair for a spin, check that it's fully charged and that the tires have enough air pressure in them. It's also an excellent idea to make a few adjustments to the seat, armrests footrests (if appropriate) and joystick, to prepare it for its first use. It's essential to follow the directions in the manual before operating your wheelchair. This is especially important when driving up and down hills. This reduces the risk of injury, damage and discomfort.