How To Save Money On Electric Powered Wheelchair
Wiki Article
Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
An electric powered wheelchair is a great option for those with mobility issues. They are available at major stores and specialist mobility equipment providers. Medicare and private insurance could cover the cost of an electrical wheelchair if a doctor deems it medically essential.
Most power wheelchairs have an electronic joystick that users use to direct 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 aspect to consider when purchasing wheelchair. A high-quality battery can last up to two years with regular use and proper maintenance. The type of battery determines how far the wheelchair can be able to travel on one charge.
Deep cycle batteries are used in most power wheelchairs. They provide a long lasting energy supply. They can handle a variety of discharges and recharges without causing damage to the battery cells. It is essential to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer for charging that typically include charging the battery overnight and avoiding allowing it to run completely empty.
The surface on which the wheelchair operates can affect the battery's life. Smooth, level surfaces require less energy to propel the chair, resulting in longer battery life. If a wheelchair is used on rocky or bumpy surfaces the motors will need to perform harder to maintain speed and stability and this consumes more energy and drains the battery quicker.
The age of a battery as well as the way it is used can affect its longevity. If a battery has become old and starting to lose its capacity to hold the charge, it might be time to replace it. A newer battery could help decrease the amount of time that a wheelchair has to be charged, and is more likely to have a higher capacity than older batteries.
Wheelchair batteries come in various sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than Group 24 batteries. This helps to reduce the weight and size of a wheelchair. However, these batteries have lower power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
Avoid charging or subcharging the battery as it will reduce its life. It is essential to keep the battery in a dry, cool location, as extreme temperatures can alter the functionality of the battery.
Weight Capacity
Weight capacity is a key aspect to take into account when selecting the right power wheelchair. If the chair is going to be used for long trips, it will need to be capable of supporting the weight of the person. Overweight can lead to structural issues, a decrease in battery life, and an increased risk of accidents.
The weight of a power chair varies from model to model and is influenced by the type of battery it is powered by. The weight of a power chair is also affected by the amount of accessories and the type of accessories, including oxygen tanks holders as well as different seating systems. However, most of its weight comes from the batteries. A single battery can weigh up to 50 lbs, and most power chairs come with two batteries!
The weight of a power wheelchair can also be affected by whether it has an engine with four poles or two. A four-pole motor is more efficient and can provide more weight capacity. It will however require more energy and drain the batteries faster than a motor with just two poles.
Power wheelchairs can also come with different drive bases such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The location of the drive wheels may make a difference in its maneuverability and handling in various conditions. The drive base may contain a variety of options, like the swing-away control, which helps with side-transfers, or sip-and-puff controls that work by blowing on a sensor.
The setting that a power wheelchair is used is a different factor to take into consideration. It is essential that the chair be able to travel over varying terrain and be able to fit into rooms and hallways. It's important to measure doors and make sure that the chair is able to navigate through them, even those with hinged doors.
A physical therapist or mobility specialist can assist you in choosing the right power chair to meet your needs. In addition to evaluating the wheelchair's weight, speed and driving range They can also provide advice on other factors like accessibility, comfort and seat size. They will also look at the frequency and duration, and whether the chair will be moved regularly.
Seating
Electric wheelchairs come with motors that move them, unlike manual wheelchairs. This allows you to move more freely and further than a manual one, but there are a few limitations.
You'll first need to know the weight capacity of your chair. Whether it's your personal weight or the weight of any equipment or supplies that you're carrying, it is important to never exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit to avoid overtaxing the power chair and damaging it.
Make sure that the power chair you choose has a comfortable footplate and an armchair wheelchair with electric motor that you can comfortably fit in. If your feet don't fit into the footplate of the power chair, your center of gravity will be reversed and the chair will slouch.
Find a power chair that has tilt and reclining functions to lower the chance of developing pressure sores. This feature is particularly important for seniors, whose skin may be thin and easily bruise. Leg rests with power are a great way to elevate your legs, which can reduce swelling.
Your wheelchair, like any mechanical device, will need regular maintenance to perform well and safely. You'll have to check the battery as well as the tire pressure, brakes and other parts of your wheelchair frequently. You should also check the seat for wear and make any adjustments that are needed.
It is also important to pay attention to the place you keep your power wheelchair to avoid exposing it to extreme weather conditions. The exposure to high temperatures can degrade the frame, while exposure to low temperatures could cause damage to the battery and other electrical components.
Unless you're buying your 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 requirements. Manufacturer warranties typically last between one and two years. They cover joysticks, motors, frames, and electronic components but not back cushions, seats, or tires. Ask your provider about their return policies before you purchase an electric wheelchair. The most important thing is to go through the manual and follow the directions regarding use and maintenance.
Operation
The motor of a power wheelchair is found in the power base. It is located beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by one or two rechargeable 12-volt batteries in series, resulting in 24 volts in total. LITH-TECH provides lithium batteries that are more energy efficient than lead acids and can be used over a longer period of time.
Many options are available to modify the controller, electronics, and power base to meet the needs of each user. Certain chairs permit individual seating that can help to ensure a comfortable fit. It also allows the user to find the position that best will help their posture. A lot of chairs have adjustable features such as seat height, leg rest and recline positions, as well power tilt functionality.
Electric powered wheelchairs can come with a wide range of additional features. These include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs, and a wide range of power accessories. Some powerchairs can even be customised to let the user control them using 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 instance, when driving uphill. Certain powerchairs come with sensors that warn them of dangers or obstacles nearby, and will automatically slow down and turn whenever necessary.
The position of the drive wheels - whether front-wheel, mid-wheel or rear-wheel drive - can have a huge impact on how a chair performs in different conditions. This is a huge issue, so we'll leave it for a later Clinical Corner.
Before taking your new electric wheelchair for an outing, make sure it's fully charged, and that the tires have enough air pressure in them. It's also an excellent idea to adjust the armrests, seat, footrests (if appropriate) and joystick to prepare it for first time use. It's important to read the directions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is especially true when driving up and down hills. This will minimise the chance of injury, damage and discomfort.