Preventative Maintenance for Your Power Wheelchair

Permobil C-300

 

by Patrick Boardman

J&R Medical

Houston Texas

713-344-0901

www.jandrmedical.com

 

Power wheelchairs are very expensive and some cost as much as a car.  Just like changing your oil every 3000 miles, you must also maintain your wheelchair in a similar fashion. 

Batteries-  Wheelchair batteries are the fuel that make your wheelchair function.  Following these simple rules, you can significantly increase the life of your batteries.

5 Battery Rules to Live By:
1. Know the size of the batteries in your power chair, and recognize range limitations.
2. Understand that some uses discharge power chair batteries quicker than others - be aware of how your uses affect your power chair’s range each day, i.e. tilt.
3. Don't abuse your batteries by discharging them beyond practical need.
4. Charge your power chair correctly and completely after each day’s use. 
5. Replace older batteries before there's an issue, i.e. noticeable decline in range.
 

WARNING
NEVER attempt to recharge the batteries by attaching cables directly to the battery terminals or clamps. ALWAYS use the recharging plug located on the front of the joystick.
DO NOT sit in the wheelchair while charging the batteries.
DO NOT attempt to recharge the batteries and operate the power wheelchair at the same time.
During use and charging, unsealed batteries will vent hydrogen gas which is explosive in the right concentration with air.

 CAUTION
Always charge new batteries before initial use or battery life will be reduced.

The useful life of wheelchair batteries is usually 1-2 years depending on the amount of use.  Most insurances pay for replacment batteries every 6-12 months so it is a good idea to change them at least once a year. 

Preventative Maintenance Checklist-

 

Inspect/Adjust Monthly

q Clean upholstery and armrests.

q Clean dirt and lint from axles.

q Clean dirt and lint from bearings.

q Ensure that the casters are free of debris.

q Inspect seat positioning strap for any signs of wear. Ensure buckle latches. Verify hardware that attaches strap to frame is secure and undamaged.

Replace if necessary.

Inspect/Adjust Periodically

q Ensure wheelchair rolls straight (no excessive drag or pull to one side).

q Inspect all fasteners.

q Inspect  fasteners and hardware.

q Ensure clothing guards are secure.

q Ensure arms are secure but easy to release and adjustment levers engage properly.

q Ensure adjustable height arms operate and lock securely.

q Ensure upholstery does not have any rips or tears.

q Armrest pad sits flush against arm tube.

q Ensure that the casters are free of debris.

q Inspect foam handgrips for damage. If damaged, have them replaced by a qualified technician.

q Check center mount front riggings for loose fasteners. Replace /tighten if necessary.

 

q Check that all labels are present and legible. Replace if necessary.

 Following these simple guidelines can dramatically increase the life of your wheelchair.  If you are in the Greater Houston area and would like to schedule a service appointment please call us at 713-344-0901 and ask for the service department.  Many companies want to sell you a wheelchair but aren't very interested in fixing it.  At J&R Medical we are dedicated to providing the highest level of servicefor all of the equipment we sell.