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10 Misconceptions That Your Boss May Have Regarding Electric Powered Wheelchair
Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair

Electric powered wheelchairs can be a huge help to people with mobility issues. You can find these chairs at specialist mobility equipment suppliers and some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance may cover the cost of an electric wheelchair if a doctor considers it medically necessary.

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

Battery Life

When shopping for a power wheelchair, one of the most important factors to consider is battery life. A good battery can last for up to two years if regularly used and maintained. The type of battery also determines how far a wheelchair will be able to travel on one charge.

The majority of power wheelchairs have deep cycle batteries, which are designed to provide a long-lasting energy supply. These batteries can handle multiple recharges and discharges without damaging the battery cells. It is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer's recommended charging practices which usually include overnight charging of the battery and avoiding letting it run completely empty.

The battery life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth, level surfaces use less power to propel the chair, which results in longer battery life. If a wheelchair is driven over rocky or bumpy terrain, the motors will have to work harder in order to maintain balance and speed which takes energy and depletes battery faster.

The age of a battery as well as its usage pattern can also impact its longevity. It is possible to replace a battery if it is becoming old and losing its capacity to keep charge. A newer battery can help decrease 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 a variety of sizes including Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most sought-after choices. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than the Group 24 batteries. This reduces the overall weight and size of the wheelchair. However, they have lower power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.

Avoid overcharging or subcharging the battery, as this can reduce its lifespan. It is crucial to keep the battery in a dry, cool place, as extreme temperatures can affect the battery's performance.

Capacity of Weight

Weight capacity is an important factor to consider when choosing the right power wheelchair. If the chair is used on long trips, then it must be able to support the user's weight. A heavy weight can cause structural issues, a decrease in battery life, and an increased chance of accidents.

The weight of a power wheelchair differs from one model to another and is affected by the batteries it uses. It also affects the variety and types of accessories it comes with such as oxygen tank holders and various seating systems. The batteries are responsible for the majority of the weight. One battery can weigh up to 50 lbs by itself and a power chair usually has two of them!

The power wheelchair's either a four-pole or two-pole motor can also have an impact on the weight of the wheelchair. A four-pole motor is more efficient and can support greater weight capacity. It will however require more energy and drain the batteries faster than a motor with just two poles.

Power wheelchairs also have different base drives, such as rear-wheel drive or mid-wheel drive. The position of the drive wheels may make a difference in the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair in a variety of conditions. electric wheelchair uk may include a variety of options, like the swing-away control, which helps with side-transfers and sip-and-puff controls that operate by blowing on a sensor.

Another factor to consider is the setting in which the power wheelchair is used. It is crucial that the chair is able to be used on a variety of terrains and fit into hallways and rooms. It is essential to measure the doorways and make sure that the chair will pass through them. This includes hinged doors.


A physical therapist and/or mobility specialist can help select the right power wheelchair for the individual. They can advise on factors like comfort, accessibility changes as well as the size of the seat and weight of the wheelchair. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration and whether the chair will be moved frequently.

Seating

Electric wheelchairs are powered by motors to move them, unlike manual wheelchairs. This allows you to move more freely and farther than a manual one, however, there are a few limitations.

First, you'll need to understand the weight capacity of your new chair. If it's your own personal weight or the weight of any equipment or items that you're carrying, it is important to not exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit in order to avoid overloading the power chair and causing damage.

Next, make sure your power chair has a comfortable seat and a footplate that you can fit comfortably into. If you don't have enough room for your feet to rest on the footplate, it may shift your center of gravity to the back and cause the chair to move.

Then, you should look for a wheelchair that has tilt and recline functions to decrease the risk of pressure sores. This feature is especially important for seniors, whose skin can be thin and bruise easily. Furthermore, power leg rests can help raise your legs and decrease swelling.

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

You should also pay attention to where you place your power wheelchair in order to avoid exposing it to extreme weather conditions. Exposed to extreme temperatures could cause damage to the frame, whereas exposure to low temperatures could cause damage to the battery and other electrical components.

If you don't buy your wheelchair from the pocket, you won't have insurance coverage and you wont be able to return it if you discover it doesn't meet your needs. Manufacturer warranties typically last between one and two years and cover the motors, electronics, joysticks and frames but not the back cushions, seats or tires. Before purchasing an electric wheelchair, ask your provider about the return policy. The most important thing is to read the manual thoroughly and follow the directions for maintenance and use.

Operation

Power wheelchairs are driven by a motor within the power base that is located beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by one or two rechargeable 12-volt batteries that are connected in series, resulting in 24 volts in total. LITH-TECH's lithium batteries are more energy efficient than lead acids and can be used for a longer period of time.

The controller as well as the electronics and power base can be customized to meet the requirements of different users, with numerous options available. Some chairs allow for customizable seating, which can aid in ensuring a comfortable fit. It also lets the user determine the best position that will help their posture. Many models also include adjustable heights for the seat, recline and leg rests, and power tilt functionality.

Electric powered wheelchairs can be fitted with a variety of extras. They include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs and a wide range of accessories for power. Some powerchairs can even be customized so that the user can control them using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.

Some powerchairs also be able to adjust their speed according to the individual's preferences or match the speed of other vehicles on the road, such as when going up hills. They can also be fitted with sensors that can warn of obstacles and other potential hazards within the vicinity, and will automatically slow down or swerve when necessary.

The location of the drive wheels, regardless of whether they are mid-wheels, rear-wheels or front-wheel drives has significant impact on how a chair performs under different conditions. But that's a big topic that we'll save for a future Clinical Corner article.

Check that your new electric chair is fully charged and that the tires are inflating to the correct pressure before you take it for an excursion. To prepare for the first time it's best to make some adjustments to your chair, armrests and footrests. It's essential to follow the directions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is especially true when driving on and down hills. This reduces the chance of discomfort and injury.

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