Getting the most use out of your power wheelchair generally comes down to keeping it maintained and in good condition. The good news is a lot of the recommended care tips can be done by you or your caregiver in the comfort of your own home. Rehab Medical experts worked with some of the top power wheelchair manufacturers in the nation to bring you a simple guide on how to properly care for your power wheelchair. Check out what the top manufacturers recommend below!
Recommended maintenance schedule:
Daily maintenance
Check that all switches, buttons, and toggles are operating and functioning properly
Charge batteries for 8-14 hours every night (for more information on how to properly charge batteries refer to our guide on how to service your equipment)
Monthly maintenance
Inspect for wear and tear damages
Ensure connections are secure
Check for loose wires
Periodical maintenance
Ensure motor and batteries are clean and free from corrosion, moisture, or dirt
Check for excessive noise like clicking or grinding
Check for loose parts or rattling sounds indicating loose screws
If you are experiencing any of the issues above and your wheelchair is older than five years, we recommend calling our sales team at 855-437-7915 or completing this form to get you started on upgrading your wheelchair, if you have not met your five-year mark, we recommend reaching out to our service team at 866-424-4500 to schedule a service appointment.
Battery maintenance and proper charging procedures:
Allow a minimum of 8 hours for normal charging
For prolonged use of your battery, charge the battery as frequently as possible
For heavily depleted batteries, an excess of 16 hours is recommended for charging
It’s recommended to replace the battery if it takes longer than normal to charge
Common wheelchair issues, their likely causes, and resolution tips:
​Issue | Cause | Resolution |
Chair is on but not moving | Chair is in a tilted or elevated position | Return chair to a neutral (home) position then turn back on |
Chair is not working or functioning properly | Batteries are low or wires might be loose or damaged | Contact Rehab Medical and request a 10-point inspection of your chair |
Joystick isn't working | Joystick is not plugged in, not turned on or a fuse might be blown | Turn on joystick, check connections, contact Rehab Medical to schedule replacement of fuses |
For additional wheelchair care tips, check out the blogs below!