Maximizing the Life of Electric Wheelchair and Mobility Scooter Batteries

Taking care of your electric wheelchair or scooter battery is one of the easiest forms of maintenance you can perform, and it’s also one of the most important. Well maintained batteries not only have longer lifespans, they also hold charges more consistently and are less likely to have problems overall. And as any electric wheelchair user can tell you, there are few things more important than knowing you can rely on your battery to last without a fuss. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your mobility scooter battery reaches its maximum lifetime potential and always provides optimum performance.

Almost all electric wheelchair and mobility scooter batteries are ‘sealed lead acid deep cycle batteries.’ What this means is that they’re designed to provide sustained, consistent power over an extended period of time. It also means that they’re able to rebound from heavy usage with minimum wear and tear. However, despite their many capabilities, mobility scooter batteries can still be damaged. These batteries do not, for example, function well in extreme temperature environments or with erratic charging.

How to Protect and Maintain Your Batteries

To protect your electric wheelchair or mobility scooter batteries from harm, always be aware of surrounding conditions. Ideally, mobility scooter batteries should only enjoy heavy usage in warm, dry weather. If the outdoor temperature is over eighty degrees, avoid extended trips that might cause overheating. Likewise, if temperatures are below 50 degrees, be mindful that freezing weather may cause electronic stress. You can certainly use your electric wheelchair or scooter in less than perfect weather, but do remember to keep an eye out for any signs your battery is struggling. If you sense trouble, let your electric wheelchair rest inside a room temperature environment for a little while before proceeding.

When it’s time to charge your battery after a trip in extreme temperatures, also remember to proceed with caution. If your mobility scooter battery feels overheated, allow it to completely cool before attempting to charge it. Or, if your battery has become frozen or wet, towel dry it as much as possible when you arrive home. Then, store your battery at room temperature for two days before trying to turn it on. This ensures that all possible moisture has evaporated before any delicate electronics fire up.

Lastly, whenever your electric wheelchair or mobility scooter batteries are ready to be plugged in, try to charge them in periods lasting between 8 and 14 hours. Short, intense bursts of electricity reduce the efficiency of your battery. Likewise, charges that last longer than 24-hours can overwhelm mobility scooter batteries and cause damage. Overnight charges, performed when batteries still contain some energy, will always be most efficient in the long run. If you remember to take care of your electric wheelchair batteries in these and other ways, you’ll be rewarded with long-lasting power sources that can always be relied on.