So , You've Purchased Electric Powered Wheelchair ... Now What?

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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair

An electric powered wheelchair can be very beneficial for individuals with mobility issues. They are available at major retailers and specialty mobility equipment providers. Medicare and private insurance can pay for the cost of an electric wheelchair if deemed medically necessary by a physician.

The majority of power wheelchairs come with a joystick that users can use to control the motors. These movements are converted into electrical signals by a controller which acts like the brain of the chair.

Battery Life

When shopping for a power wheelchair, one of the most important aspects to consider is the battery's life. A high-quality battery can last up to two years if maintained regularly and is regularly used. The type of battery also affects the distance that wheelchairs can travel on one charge.

Deep cycle batteries are utilized in most power wheelchairs. They provide a long lasting energy supply. They can handle numerous discharges and recharges without causing damage battery cells. It is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer's recommended charging practices which usually 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 require less power to propel the wheelchair, which results in a longer battery longevity than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is driven on rough or uneven surfaces motors will have to perform harder to maintain speed and stability which means that they consume more energy and drains the battery faster.

The life expectancy of batteries is affected by its age and usage patterns. It could be time to replace the battery if it's becoming old and losing its capacity to keep charge. A newer battery will reduce the amount of time a wheelchair must be charged, and it is more likely to have a higher capacity than older batteries.

Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes, with Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most sought-after choices. Group 22NF batteries are lighter and smaller than Group 24 batteries, which help to reduce the weight and dimensions of a power wheelchair. However, these batteries have lower power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.

Avoid charging or subcharging the battery as it will reduce the battery's lifespan. It is crucial to keep the battery in a cool, dry area, since extreme temperatures can affect the battery's performance.

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity of a power chair is a key factor to take into account. If the chair is going to be used for long journeys, it will need to be capable of supporting the user's body weight. Problems with weight are often caused by excess weight, which could result in accidents and battery life issues.

A power wheelchair's weight differs from model to and is influenced by the type of battery it uses. The weight of a wheelchair is also affected by the amount of accessories and the kind of accessories, like oxygen tanks holders and various 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 power wheelchair's a two-pole motor or four-pole motor could affect the weight of the wheelchair. A four-pole motor is more efficient and has a higher weight capacity. However, it will need more energy from the batteries and may drain faster than a two-pole motor.

Power wheelchairs may also have different drive bases, such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The position of the drive wheels could influence the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair under various conditions. The drive base may include a variety of options, such as the swing-away control, which helps with side-transfers, or sip-and-puff controls that work by blowing on the sensor.

Another consideration is the environment that the power wheelchair will be employed. It is important that the chair is able to be used on various surfaces and be able to fit into hallways and rooms. It is read more essential to measure the doorways and make sure that the chair will pass through them. This includes hinged doors.

A physical therapist or mobility specialist can assist in selecting the right power wheelchair for your needs. In addition to assessing the wheelchair's weight, speed and driving range, they can also advise on other factors such as accessibility, comfort, and seat size. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration of use and whether the chair will be moved frequently.

Seating

Electric wheelchairs have motors to move them, in contrast to manual wheelchairs. This allows you to move more and greater mobility than a manual chair, but it does have certain limitations and other factors that you should consider.

The first step is to understand the weight capacity of your new power chair. You should never exceed the recommended weight limit, whether it's you or any other equipment or items that you're carrying.

Make sure that the power chair you choose has a comfortable footplate and an appropriate seat to fit into. If your feet don't fit onto the footplate of the power chair, your center of gravity will be reversed and the wheelchair will lunge.

Then, you should look for a wheelchair that has tilt and recline capabilities to help reduce the risk of pressure sores. This feature is crucial for those who are elderly and whose skin may be thin and bruises easily. Furthermore, power leg rests can help raise your legs and lessen swelling.

Like all mechanical devices it will require regular maintenance to ensure it functions safely and efficiently. You'll need to check the battery and tire pressure, brakes, and other parts of your wheelchair frequently. You should also examine the seating for wear and make any adjustments that are needed.

Be attentive to the place you keep carbon fibre electric wheelchair your power wheelchair to ensure that it is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. The exposure to high temperatures can degrade the frame, while exposure to low temperatures can damage the battery and other electrical components.

If you don't purchase your wheelchair from a private source, it isn't covered by insurance and you won't be able to return it if it doesn't satisfy your requirements. Warranties from manufacturers typically last from one to two years and cover the motors electronic, joysticks, and electronics frames, but not the seats, back cushions or tires. Before buying an electric wheelchair, you should inquire with your dealer about their return policy. In the first place, review the user's manual thoroughly and follow all the directions on how to use and maintain the device.

Operation

Power wheelchairs are driven by a motor within the power base that sits under the seat of the user. The motor is powered either by rechargeable batteries that are 12 volts connected in series to produce a total voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries that are more efficient in energy than lead acids and can be used for an extended period of time.

Many options are available to customize the controller, electronics and power base to meet the requirements of each user. Some chairs allow for individual seating that can help to ensure a comfortable fit. It also allows the user to find the position that best allows them to maintain their postural stability. Many chairs come with adjustable features like seat height, leg rest and recline positions, in addition to the ability to tilt with power.

There are many additional extras that are available for electric powered wheelchairs including oxygen tank holders, elevated seats, and a variety of power accessories. Some powerchairs are customised to allow users to control them using their brainwaves or nerve signal.

Some powerchairs can also be adjusted in their speed according to the individual's preferences or match the speed of other vehicles on the road, such as when going up hills. Some powerchairs are equipped with sensors that alert them to obstacles or other potential hazards close by, and they automatically slow down and turn when necessary.

The position of the drive wheels - whether they're front-wheel, mid-wheel or rear-wheel drive - can have a huge impact on how a chair performs in different situations. But that's a big issue that we'll keep for a future Clinical Corner article.

Before you take your new electric wheelchair for the first time, ensure that it's fully charged and that the tires have enough air pressure. To get ready for your first time it's best to make some adjustments to your chair, armrests and footrests. It is essential to follow the instructions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is especially true when driving on and down hills. This reduces the chance of injury, damage, and discomfort.