Have you ever encountered a nice day that suddenly became rainy? Have you ever had a moment where you had something planned outside and the forecast is calling heavy rain? Many people don’t consider what happens if you’re on your mobility scooter and it starts to rain. Whether the rain is forecasted or comes as a surprise, can you use your mobility scooter in the rain? In this post, we’re going to take a look at if it’s a wise idea to use a mobility scooter in the rain, mobility scooter accessories for the rain, and more.
How Much Rain Can Mobility Scooters Handle
Electronics and rain generally do not mix. Most mobility scooters are not waterproof and so you shouldn’t drive your mobility scooter in heavy rain. If you live in a place where it rains a lot, such as Hawaii, Louisiana, or Mississippi, there are certain mobility scooters that can handle rain better than others. If you are looking for a mobility scooter and are concerned about the rain, here’s what to look for.
IP Ratings
Mobility scooters have what’s called an IP Rating. The IP Rating tells you how resistant the scooter is towards elements - that’s for both water resistance and dust resistance. Here are the IP Ratings for mobility scooters:
IPX4: IPX4 is for light rain.
IPX5: IPX5 can handle moderate rain.
IPX6: IPX6 is the strongest rating and can handle heavy rain.
Please keep in mind that no mobility scooter is fully waterproof. Do not drive your mobility scooter through deep water or in heavy rains for a long period of time. Never submerge your mobility scooter in water. If you use your mobility scooter too long in heavy rains, you risk electrical damage, battery failure, damage to the motor, rust and corrosion, and the possibility of fire or electric shock.
Recommended Mobility Scooters
Some mobility scooters can handle rain better than others. Outdoor mobility scooters are generally a better choice than an indoor mobility scooter. Outdoor mobility scooters are designed for outdoor elements, meaning it’s components are more tightly sealed. This helps keep dust and water out of the mechanics. Even the tires on the outdoor mobility scooter can make a difference if you happen to get caught in some rain. Outdoor mobility scooters generally have tires for better traction. Here are our 3 recommended outdoor mobility scooters:
- EV Rider Vita Monster
The EV Rider Vita Monster was made for the outdoors. With its all-terrain performance, it can handle off-roading. Its tires are strong enough to handle rough ground such as gravel, sand, grass, and even mud. This outdoor mobility scooter has a higher ground clearance, giving it the ability to drive over certain obstacles. Keep in mind that though the EV Rider Vita Monster is a strong outdoor mobility scooter, it is not fully waterproof. It can handle light rain and smaller splashes.
- Pride PX4
Another one of our favorite outdoor mobility scooters is the Pride PX4. This Pride scooter is known best for its stability and balance. This is one of the easiest mobility scooters to control on outdoor paths. The Pride PX4 is also easy to transport and store, since it easily can be disassembled.
The Pride PX4, like many mobility scooters, can handle light rain and smaller splashes.
- Pride Pursuit 2
The Pride Pursuit 2 is an outdoor mobility scooter known for its speed and distance. With a speed up to 9.3 mile per hour and a distance of 29 miles, the Pride Pursuit 2 can get you where you need to go in a decent amount of time. With a Pride scooter, you’ll always get a durable and reliable mobility scooter, and the Pride Pursuit 2 is no exception.
In regards to driving the Pride Pursuit 2 mobility scooter in the rain, it can also handle light rain and smaller splashes.
How To Best Protect Your Mobility Scooter From The Rain
Most power scooters can handle light rain, so if you happen to get stuck in heavy rain or your day might have forecasted more rain, how can you protect your mobility scooter? Good news is there are mobility scooter accessories to help protect against the rain. Covers and canopies are a great mobility scooter accessory that can help protect your mobility scooter whenever your scooter is outside.
The most important parts to protect the mobility scooter from water is the console, battery, and motor. The console is the controller of the scooter and contains electrical components. Like any other batteries, the mobility scooter battery cannot handle getting wet. If the mobility scooter battery gets wet and short circuit and can cause an electrical fire. The motor can get internally damaged from water, making it inoperable.
Weatherbreaker Canopy
The Weatherbreaker Canopy can help keep you and parts of the mobility scooter dry. The Weatherbreaker Canopy is durable, UV-resistant, and waterproof. The canopy is easy to install and can fit any electric mobility scooter for adults or wheelchairs. The Weatherbreaker Canopy helps keep you dry as well as the mobility scooter battery and motor.
Scooter Tiller Cover
The Scooter Tiller Cover is a great way to protect the control panel of your mobility scooter. Made from a water-resistant nylon and a durable clear plastic cover, the Scooter Tiller Cover easily slips on over the control panel to protect it from water. It also helps keeps your hands warm if it’s cold. This cover is easy enough to store when not in use, and easy to put on when needed.
Mobility Scooter Covers
Don’t forget to protect your power scooter from the rain water when you’re not using it. Whether transporting the mobility scooter outside the vehicle or storing outside, the scooter can get damaged from rain water even if you are not currently driving the mobility scooter. A mobility scooter cover can help protect the scooter from rain when you are not using it.
What Should You Do If You Happen To Get Caught In Heavy Rain With Your Mobility Scooter?
If you happen to be out and about on your mobility scooter and it starts to rain heavily, what should you do to protect your mobility scooter?
Seek Shelter: If possible, find a sheltered area such as a bus stop, under a large tree, or a nearby building until the rain eases. This will protect the scooter from getting too wet.
Use a Rain Cover: If you have a scooter cover or a rain canopy with you, quickly cover the scooter to shield it from rain. These covers are designed to protect the electronics and prevent water damage.
Turn Off the Scooter: Before covering the scooter, turn it off to avoid any electrical issues due to moisture.
Avoid Puddles: Steer clear of deep puddles or flooded areas, as water could damage the scooter’s motor and battery if they come into contact with too much water.
Dry the Scooter: Once the rain stops, wipe down any wet surfaces with a towel, paying special attention to the control panel and seat. Make sure the scooter is completely dry before turning it back on.
Check for Water Damage: After the rain, inspect the scooter for any signs of water damage or malfunction. If it behaves unusually, have it checked by a professional.
Carrying a rain cover in your scooter’s storage compartment or having waterproof bags for your electronics can help you be prepared for unexpected weather.
What To Do If The Forecast Calls For Rain
If the forecast calls for rain, you can plan better ahead for your mobility scooter. If the chance is high for heavy and long rains, it might be a good idea to not go outside or leave the mobility scooter home. If the forecast is iffy and it might be a light rain, you can plan around those times to make sure you can easily find shelter or to be indoors towards that time. You can also pack the canopy, waterproof bags, and the tiller cover. Even after the rain is done, make sure to avoid any big puddles. You can plan ahead as long as you watch the forecast. Keep in mind that forecasts are not always correct, so a light rain might become a heavy rain. If you plan on taking your mobility scooter out when rain is forecasted, it’s best to plan for the heavy rain as well.
Can You Use Your Mobility Scooter in the Rain?
While most mobility scooters can handle light rain, it's important to take precautions to protect your scooter from water damage. Knowing the IP rating of your scooter and investing in accessories like canopies, tiller covers, and scooter covers can make a significant difference in keeping your equipment safe. If you do get caught in a heavy downpour, remember to seek shelter, cover your scooter, and take steps to dry it off afterward. By being prepared and understanding your scooter’s capabilities, you can enjoy outdoor adventures without worrying about unexpected rain.
