Understanding how the batteries work is important if you are a power wheelchair user. Power wheelchair batteries do have to be replaced occasionally, so understanding how they work will make selecting the correct replacement for your chair much easier. The wheelchair plays a very important role in the performance of your wheelchair.There are 3 important components of power wheelchair batteries namely capacity, current rating and cell type.
Capacity
Capacity is how long the battery can function and is expressed in ampere-hours (Ah). If an electric wheelchair runs at 10 amperes, a typical deep-cycle lead-acid battery has about 30 to 90 Ah, which means it can run continuously for 3 to nine hours. This is good since most people don’t use their wheelchair continuously.
Current
Current is the rate of electron flow and is expressed in amperes (A). The higher the amperes the better the wheelchair will perform over uneven terrain and obstacles.
Battery Type
The cell type refers to if the battery is wet or gel celled the two main types of battery cells for wheelchairs. While either can be used to power a wheelchair, some manufacturers recommend gel-cells because of maintenance and environmental issues associated with wet-cell batteries.
Wet-Cell Batteries
Despite having those issues, wet-cell batteries often have a bigger capacity, can supply more electrical power, and generally are less expensive compared to gel-cells. As a result, they are nevertheless the battery pack of choice for most users. Wet-cell batteries come in sealed or vented types.Vented wet cells have to be maintained by adding water occasionally. For someone who is disabled adding water to a wet cell battery can be dangerous since they will be exposed to acid every time the cell is opened. Serious chemical burns can occur or corrosive damage can result if spilled on the wheelchair.Sealed wet-cell batteries are fully enclosed, therefore there is no water level to maintain. Serious harm can still occur if the battery leaks.Since both types of wet-cell batteries have chemicals, they are prohibited from airplanes.
Gel-Cell Batteries
Gel-cell lead-acid batteries are designed to me maintenance free and there is no chance of chemicals spilling. These types of batteries are allowed on airplanes. Gel-cell batteries are more expensive and have about 10-20% less capacity compared to wet-cell batteries.When buying a new power wheelchair battery, make sure you have the correct charger for the given battery. Using the incorrect battery charger can permanently damage the battery. Wheelchair batteries are “deep cycle” batteries, which mean they have to be fully discharged before recharging. Most batteries can be recharged as much as 300 times before they lose holding power capacity.These tips will help you make the right decision when replacing your power wheelchair battery and ensure your wheelchair is in optimal condition.
Review by Elizabeth F. on 10 May 2022review stating Mom’s favorite!
I needed a chair that I could take with us, but wasn’t too heavy to lift into the car. This was perfect. When I am pushing, the hand brakes are great. Mom ordered a second chair for in the home. She gets around in it far better than her large wheelchair. Mom is soon to be 96 y/o.
Review by Irene A. on 23 Nov 2021review stating A life changer!
At 98 my formerly active mother’s knee collapsed. She started off in a transport wheelchair while we figured out what to do. After reading about the types of ultralight wheelchairs, a local medical supply recommended Karmen. I was able to speak with their customer service, who helped me narrow the chair down to the S Ergo 115. It’s lightweight, ve...Read MoreRead more about At 98 my formerly active mother’s knee
ry maneuverable and because it comes in a 16 inch, it can get through narrow doorways. We haven’t put the foot supports on, which allows Mom to use her feet as well as her arms to move around the house. She is thrilled with her new mobility, the only problem we’re having is getting her to slow down! Cost wise, the price was $200 less than a similar model at a local wheelchair store. We purchased directly from the factory and the transaction in the delivery could not have been smoother. Thank you for this life-changing product! Read LessRead less about At 98 my formerly active mother’s knee
Comments by Store Owner on Review by Irene A. on 23 Nov 2021
Store Owner
23/11/21
Hello Irene,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. It is wonderful to hear how the chair has impacted your lives in such positive ways. Your mother sounds like an amazing person. Our team here wishes you and your mother the brightest of days ahead!
Review by RICHARD J. on 21 Apr 2025review stating Western Pennsylvania
Lightweight. Very easy to use and control transporting my wife. Should have purchased the Ergo Flight before a rollator. Same dimensions but much more versatile and comfortable. Don't hesitate to buy.
Review by Patricia S. on 11 Apr 2025review stating Independence regained!
Great ultra lightweight wheelchair that has returned my independence to me! I can easily put it in my car myself without assistance and can now go wherever I want whenever I want! After 4 months of relying on others to get me places I am now able to be free to go the places I could before and do the things I am used to doing on my own!
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. It is wonderful to hear how the chair has impacted your lives in such positive ways. Your mother sounds like an amazing person. Our team here wishes you and your mother the brightest of days ahead!