Wheelchair Batteries
Wheelchair batteries are used differently than car batteries. The main function of a car battery is to start the engine, whereas a wheelchair battery is usually charged once a day and must supply large amounts of electricity during its daily run.
Wheelchairs demand a special type of battery called a deep-cycle battery. A deep-cycle battery can be almost completely discharged without damage to the battery. Nevertheless, wheelchair batteries will last longer if they are kept as close to full charge as possible.
Most users need to charge the batteries every night to keep a full charge. Modern wheelchair battery chargers are automatic so there is no risk of overcharging. If a wheelchair is used only occasionally, the battery needs to be charged at least once a month, and should be charged whenever it is used during throughout the day.
The life of wheelchair battery will depend on its use. Most last about a year and some users who travel primarily indoors can use the same battery for up to 2 years. The best way to tell if your wheelchair's battery is getting weak is if you notice the wheelchair lagging at end of trips that were no problem when the battery was new. Wheelchair batteries are currently sold online, in pairs from $160 to $400, depending on the model and amp hour rating.
Electric wheelchairs use two types of batteries, wet and gel.
Wheelchair Wet batteries require you to add distilled water about once every two months. Wet batteries can be damaged permanently if the water level falls below the level of the battery plates. Adding water is often quite difficult, as the batteries are heavy and difficult to reach.
Wheelchair Gel batteries never need water. They eliminate corrosion problems and are much easier to take on an airplane, as airlines require wet batteries to be removed from the wheelchair and placed in a sealed container. The main disadvantage of gel batteries is that they have about 10 to 20% less capacity than wet batteries. This is usually important only for users who travel long distances.
