How far can an electric wheelchair go?

How far will an electric wheelchair take you before it needs to be recharged? The distance that an electric wheelchair is capable of traveling varies greatly. It can range from 3 miles to more than 25 depending on several variables:

• Make and Model

• Tires used

• Battery size

• What is the maximum weight that an electric wheelchair can bear?

• Terrain

• Continuous driving vs. stop-start

• Driving at high speed

• Wheelchair Maintenance

Understanding the factors that influence your mileage total will allow you to choose the best model for you based on your height, weight, and intended use.

The Wheelchair-Specific Factors

Make and Model

When choosing an electric wheelchair, remember to choose the right one for your needs. Basic power wheelchairs are good for navigating around your home, but they won't take you very far outside.

Consider a Heavy Duty Power Wheelchair for Distance

A heavy-duty electric wheelchair can be used for all-day use and travel on rough terrain. It will go up to 20 miles per charge while allowing you to achieve higher speeds.

Tires

It also matters what type of tires you choose for your electric wheelchair. With all-terrain wheels, you can go farther on one charge because the batteries don't have to work so hard.

Batteries

There are several types of power wheelchair batteries available. It's possible to upgrade your current power wheelchair battery to one with a larger capacity to extend the driving range. The 12-volt capacity battery could be used for 6 miles, while a series of 24-volt batteries for electric wheelchairs could provide up to 20 or more miles.

Charge

These distances only apply to batteries that are fully charged. If you plan to travel a distance, make sure you charge your electric wheelchair's batteries for 8-10 hours, or overnight, before leaving.

Users-Related factors

Users Weight

To ensure the longest driving range, choose an electric wheelchair model with the correct weight capacity for you and any other items that will be carried in it. Choose an electric wheelchair with the right weight capacity. This includes the person and any other items you plan to transport in the chair.

Travel-Related factors

Terrain

The battery life is reduced on rough terrain or uneven surfaces. You should buy an all-terrain power wchair if you plan to use it on rough surfaces such as grass, sand, or rocks.

Stop-Start vs. Consistent speed

A constant-speed ride uses a smaller amount of battery power than a stop-start. You may also be able to drive farther along a bike path in comparison to driving on the sidewalk.

Drive Safely

Fasten your seatbelts

Driving at low speeds will allow you to travel further than continuously driving at high speed. You will be less likely to rush and your battery's life will increase if you leave home early.

Maintenance Factors

Tire Pressure

The dangers associated with underinflated tires on cars have been well established, however, the same cautions also apply to some power wheelchairs. * Uninflated tires can reduce driving performance and pose a safety risk. Check your tire pressure every time you leave home. Inflate them if necessary if the tires are flat or underinflated.

It is important to note that not all wheelchairs are susceptible to flat tires or tire pressure issues. Some power wheelchairs come with tires that are flat-free and have air chambers.

Battery Care

Ensuring your battery is charged to its maximum potential will allow you to drive the longest distance possible. Charge the battery once or twice a week for optimal health. Never let it drain to zero.

Maintaining, cleaning, and servicing

Regular maintenance and servicing will ensure that your wheelchair reaches its specified maximum distance without dirty parts, dirt, or grime. Mobility Plus Colorado offers maintenance and wheelchair repair in Denver, Colorado, and elsewhere to ensure that power wheelchairs are in the best condition.

Mobility scooters are a great alternative for long distances.

A mobility scooter is a better option for users who can use both hands and regularly drive long distances. Mobility scooters are designed for outdoor use and often travel faster and farther than electric wheelchairs. They can also be purchased at a lower price.

Choose the right chair with the correct care

It should now be clear that you need to select the correct powered wheelchair for the weight of your body and the intended use and follow the battery maintenance and care advice.

If you do these things right--consistently--you should be able to complete each day's journeys and even have some battery charge to spare.