We have collected a few tips on getting the most from mobility scooter batteries so that you can stay mobile.
Mobility scooters are an essential part of people’s lives when they are elderly, disabled, or those that find it difficult to get around. Mobility scooters can provide a bit more freedom and independence.
If you own a mobility scooter and you want to make sure it keeps you mobile at all times, you need to maintain the battery. Battery maintenance of mobility scooters will make sure they will be ready for use when you need them, and it will help you to save money by prolonging the life of the battery.
Below are a few top-rated tips to make sure you make the most of the battery and to ensure your mobile scooter works when you need it to.
• A New Scooter
When you purchase a new scooter from Easy Pay Mobility, the battery will be charged already. If this is the first time that you buying one of these scooters, we will give you the tips you need on the right way to charge the battery to ensure it is done easily and safely every time.
If the battery is not charged, you should charge it for a minimum of 24 hours before you use the scooter. In this way, you can gain peace of mind that it won’t die on you the first time you use it!
What Type Of Battery Does A Mobility Scooter Use?
The mobility scooters use either “sealed lead acid” or “gel” batteries.
The gel batteries typically cost more since you can recharge them a lot more than a sealed-lead acid battery before you will need to replace it. This is why we suggest the gel battery for people that are using a powerchair or mobility scooter every day.
Both battery types are sealed which prevents spillage and they are just about maintenance-free. The sealed lead acid batteries are inexpensive but are better suited to people that only use their mobility scooters occasionally.
When it comes to a mobility scooter battery it is important to keep in mind that it should never run flat completely. If the battery runs completely flat it lowers its effectiveness when it comes to holding a charge. It can also end up damaging the battery.
It is as equally important that you only use a charger that is suited to the mobility scooter battery. Similar to mobile phones, these batteries do not like the “generic chargers” and if you are using the incorrect charger it could damage the battery. However, when you purchase your mobility scooter you will be provided with the right charging unit and the correct charging leads.
How Long Does A Scooter Battery Last?
When maintained correctly, the battery on a scooter should at a minimum last for between 12 to 18 months
How Often Should I Be Charging My Mobility Scooter Battery?
• Daily Outings
As soon as you have used the scooter for the day, charge the battery as you get home. This will ensure it is ready for use the next day when you need to use it again.
• Occasional Use
If you only use the scooter occasionally (once or twice a week), a single charge weekly for around 12 to 14 hours is going to be sufficient.
• Storing For The Winter
If you are going away or you do not use your mobility scooter during the months of winter, ensure you charge your battery fully and disconnect it. To keep the battery in good condition, re-connect the battery once monthly and charge the battery fully.
• Small Scooters
If you own one of the smaller mobility scooters and the battery is small, you will probably have to charge the battery after each use.
How To Make The Charge Last Longer
Cost is one of the main considerations when running any type of vehicle, whether it is a Porsche or a lightweight mobility scooter. To keep your costs as low as possible, avoid leaving the lights or any other type of electrical equipment on when you are not using the scooter. The best method to ensure you are not wasting any battery power is to turn your scooter off at the power button or the ignition.
Don’t Undercharge The Battery On A Scooter
The batteries on mobility scooters are usually robust, but undercharging the battery can start damaging it over time. For example, sulfur can start building up inside the battery over time. This will eventually stop the battery from operating correctly. This build-up will eventually become very thick and it will stop the battery from charging, which means you will need to replace it. By charging the battery fully every time, you can prolong the life of the battery and make sure it is ready for use when you need it.
