Mobility scooters help elderly and disabled individuals get where they need to be, but after some use, wear and tear can begin to show on the device. Among the most prominent issues with mobility scooters is battery drainage. Each mobility scooter comes with a battery rated for a certain amount of time, but if you notice your battery draining faster than it should, here are some reasons why.
Poor Battery
Batteries are not meant to last forever. Although the life of a battery is highly dependent upon how often the individual uses it, the general life expectancy is around 18 months. An old battery no longer has the same capacity as a new one and may be in need of replacement. Consider a new battery or a more powerful upgraded model. When ordering a new battery, include the serial or model number for your mobility scooter, so you will ensure you receive the correct battery for your device.
- 2 x 12v 12ah Reliable and Long Lasting Replacement Batteries
Improper Charge
Often, one of the reasons a battery drains fast is due to human error. Not plugging in the device correctly will cause the battery not to charge at all. When plugging it in for a charge, make certain connections are secure on both the device and the outlet it is plugged into.
Another problem with charging your device could be related to the type of charger used. Like the battery, chargers are unique to the type of mobility scooter you use. Never use another charging device even if the ports fit snuggly. The wattage can be different leading you to under or overcharge your device.
Not Enough Air in Tyres
Battery range is dependant upon ideal circumstances. Meaning, everything is working properly on the device, including the tyres. Tyres that are not inflated properly will require more energy from the battery to pull the device along. Even on smooth surfaces improperly inflated tyres can cause the battery to work harder than it should to power the scooter.
Make sure your tyres are inflated to the proper PSI (pounds per square inch). The number should be noted on each tyre, but can also be found in the owner’s manual. If your tyres are not holding air and having to be inflated often, it might be time to upgrade to new ones or check to see if something sharp has punctured a hole. Tyres are recommended to be changed on most mobility scooters between 5 and 6 years.
Difficult Terrain
Again, running times are based upon optimal circumstances, so if you happen to be using your mobility scooter on rough terrain, you can experience a higher level of battery drain. The device must work harder to push itself and the rider up hills and across rocky surfaces. Most mobility scooters have an incline rating and pushing the boundaries of that incline can drain your battery quickly.
Mobility scooters rated for all terrain are designed with an increased motor and battery capacity to contend with various ground conditions. The average mobility device is not all terrain rated, so if you are among the more active mobility challenged individuals, investing in a higher end, all terrain model is the best option for you. Even with an all terrain mobility scooter, keep an eye on any changes in your battery’s range and upgrade when necessary
Weather Related
The weather can have a dramatic effect on your mobility scooter’s performance. Wet and rainy conditions can drain the battery quicker than warm weather. Batteries drain faster in winter due to a difference in chemical reactions. Chemicals in the battery are what allow it to charge and maintain that charge, so when the weather is cooler, that reaction becomes substantially slower. Mobility scooter owners often have to charge their devices more during winter than at any other time.
Wet weather can also quickly drain the battery. Water getting into components of the machine can limit its ability to perform. Most mobility scooters are water resistant to a certain degree, but an overabundance of rain can significantly diminish performance. To avoid this factor, consider purchasing a cover for your mobility scooter. Most models come with some form of hard or soft cover to help contend with the rain and wind.
Over Weight Capacity
Mobility scooters come with a weight limit for good reason. The device is designed to carry a specific weight without wearing out the system. Moving past the weight limit will drain your battery fast and limit your devices performance. Ensure your mobility scooter is rated for your weight and do not go beyond its limits. Mismanaging your devices weight limit can void any warranty and cause parts to wear out much faster.
When you notice your battery’s range becoming diminished, consider upgrading to a stronger battery. Proper maintenance to your mobility device will help it last for many years, so never neglect the need to service and maintain its battery system.
Last update on 2024-05-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API