Whether you’re just purchasing your first wheelchair or you’ve used one for some time, you may be wondering how much battery life you can get out of your wheelchair. The answer to that question varies. Generally, you can expect to get about eight hours of use out of a fully charged battery. A battery will perform at peak capacity for about 1.5 years, and it will need replacement between 12 and 24 months. Northeast Battery can recommend batteries for your wheelchair for optimal performance and longevity based on your own personal factors.
Average Wheel Chair Battery Lifespan
On average, a wheelchair’s battery will last somewhere between one and two years. If you get a lower-quality battery, you may get about six months’ worth of battery power instead. While the type of battery you get has some influence on the battery’s lifespan and power output, other factors play a role in the battery’s longevity. The weight of the wheelchair’s user influences how long the battery lasts, as does the overall health of the battery.
Factors That Affect Battery Lifespan
Some factors that affect a wheelchair’s battery life are fixed, while others are variable. One variable factor is the environment in which the wheelchair is operated. Driving more frequently during the day influences the battery’s life. If you drive more frequently than the average of 10 miles per day, the battery will wear out sooner. As a rule of thumb, driving on hard and flat surfaces reduces strain on the battery and increases its longevity.
Another factor that affects wheel chair battery life is weight. That includes the weight of the user and any excess weight that you carry around, such as groceries and equipment. The more weight that the chair needs to support, the harder the battery must work, which in turn reduces its range and overall lifespan.
The frequency at which you charge the battery for your chair also affects its longevity. Ideally, the battery should be recharged at least once each day, provided you use the wheelchair on a daily basis. In fact, keeping the battery charged will extend its lifespan. Batteries also perform best when they are fully charged. So if you are planning to go out for an extended period of time, it’s best to make sure that the battery is charged to at least partial capacity prior to leaving your home.
Battery Best Practices
Along with charging your battery at least once every day, there are several other tips to keep in mind for optimal battery longevity. Just as you should aim to charge the battery once daily, you should try to never let it run out completely. Additionally, “topping off” the battery, which is charging it to the fullest extent, can negatively impact its lifespan. If the battery is already fully charged, try to let it run out of power for a bit before recharging. Charging the battery overnight is best, as most batteries take a full eight hours to recharge.
If you have questions about battery longevity or need assistance finding the right battery for your wheelchair’s performance, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Northeast Battery for assistance.