How Far Can You Go On A Power Wheelchair

Power Wheelchair Blog

For those who have trouble walking and lack upper body strength greatly benefit from using a power wheelchair, but with anything using a battery and a motor, there are limitations to how far you can go. Each person’s lifestyle requires a different amount of range needed for their power wheelchair, but no matter what, you don’t want to encounter a dead battery while you are out and about. So how far can you go on a power wheelchair? In this post, we’re going to take a look at the different types of power wheelchairs, the distances a power wheelchair can go, what factors go into the range of a power wheelchair, and some things you can do to improve the miles your power wheelchair can go.

Different Types Of Power Wheelchairs

A power wheelchair is a form of motorized wheelchair. The power wheelchair, also known as a powerchair, is controlled by a joystick instead of using your own power. The power wheelchair uses a battery and a motor to move the wheelchair. There are a variety of different power wheelchairs for different needs, and with that, the different power wheelchairs can vary in their range. Not every user needs their power wheelchair to have a long-distance range, meanwhile, other users may need a longer range. Let’s go over the different types of power wheelchairs and which one may fit your needs best.

Standard Powerchairs

The standard power wheelchair is the most common powerchair. These types of powerchairs are made for everyday use, meaning they can handle indoors and limited outdoors. They perform best on paved ground. These power wheelchairs are durable and heavy, but most of them do not break down or fold, which means the standard powerchair requires a wheelchair lift to transport.

The standard power wheelchair has a variety of how far it can go. On average, the standard powerchair can go between 8-20 miles on a single charge.

Travel Powerchair

Travel powerchairs are still a form of a motorized wheelchair, but are made for transporting. These power wheelchairs are lighter in weight and either fold or disassemble. This allows a person to take their power wheelchair by the trunk of their car or travel easier through the airport.

Since the travel power wheelchair is made for transporting and shorter use, the average distance this powerchair can go is shorter than the standard power wheelchair. The average distance of the travel power wheelchair is between 8-15 miles.

Folding Electric Wheelchair

The folding electric wheelchair is very similar to the travel wheelchair. They are lighter in weight and are more compact. These wheelchairs are perfect when you travel by plane, train, or cruise ships. The folding electric wheelchair is easy to transport and easy to use.

The folding electric wheelchair has a very similar battery life to the travel powerchair. With a battery range of 6-15 miles, the folding wheelchair can last for all your on-the-go activities.

Other Factors That Contribute To The Battery Life & Performance

No matter which electric wheelchair you are considering, you should be getting a decent amount of battery life, though there are other things that may either increase or decrease the battery life and performance.

Battery Type:

The electric wheelchair will either come with a lead-acid or lithium-ion battery. There are differences between the batteries and how well the batteries last and perform.
Lead-Acid Battery: The lead-acid battery is a cheaper option, so it might be better if you are on a tight budget. Though these batteries are reliable, they are less energy efficient, have longer charge times, and don’t hold a charge as well throughout time.
Lithium-Ion Battery: Lithium-Ion batteries are best for those who do plan on using their electric wheelchair for longer distances or periods of time. The lithium-ion batteries charge quickly and use energy more conservatively. The lithium-ion battery does cost more, is sensitive to extreme temperatures, and has a greater chance of overheating and creating a fire risk.

Weight Capacity:

The total amount of weight is a big factor on the battery performance and range. The heavier the load, the more the motor has to work, thus pulling more energy from the battery. If the total weight is above the weight capacity, you’ll drain the battery quicker and run the risk of damaging the powerchair itself. Don’t forget to include the weight of the electric wheelchair accessories and the things they carry, such as the baskets and the items in the basket, or saddlebags and the items it contains.

Terrain:

The smoother and flatter the terrain, the longer range you’ll have. If you are traveling on gravel or any form of an incline, the motor will have to put forth more energy, so plan on the battery range not lasting to the maximum distance.

Maintenance:

Make sure the tires are in good condition and have the proper amount of tire pressure. Take care of the motor to make sure it's not overworking, draining the battery life. Don’t forget to maintain the battery itself. Store the battery when you’re not using it in a cool, dry place. Do not over-charge the battery. Make sure the battery is clear of corrosion. Learn more about battery maintenance and care in this blog post here: https://www.scooterdirect.com/blog/post/tips-for-charging-folding-electric-wheelchair/

Replacing Electric Wheelchair Batteries

If your electric wheelchair is not holding its battery charge like it used to, the good news is that you can replace the battery. By replacing the batteries when needed, you’ll also be putting the motor at ease. Make sure you replace the battery when it's not performing well, taking longer than usual to charge, or has signs of damage. Most electric wheelchair batteries last up to 3 years, so if you are past that, it might be time to get a new battery as well.

Transporting Your Electric Wheelchair

Whether you are using a folding electric wheelchair or a standard powerchair, transporting your wheelchair will be easier and save on battery than driving your wheelchair to your location. With the folding wheelchair, it’s easier to transport, but for a heavier electric wheelchair, you can use a wheelchair carrier or lift. The wheelchair lifts and carriers have come a long way and now have more options for different vehicles.
Wheelchair Lift: The wheelchair lift lowers and raises the wheelchair into the vehicle. These lifts are motorized, making it easy to use.

Wheelchair Carrier: The wheelchair carrier transports the wheelchair on the outside of the vehicle. Most of the carriers are attached to the hitch, making it versatile and offers more options for the vehicle transporting the wheelchair.

Electric Wheelchair Recommendations

No matter which electric wheelchair you are looking for, these are our top recommended electric wheelchairs. Looking at durability, range, power, and overall comfort, these are our customer’s favorites.

1. Pride Jazzy Air 2

You cannot go wrong with a Pride electric wheelchair. Known for being durable and comfortable, the Pride Jazzy Air 2 has some features that many people love. A favored feature on the Pride Jazzy Air 2 is that it can elevate the user up to 12 inches. You can now feel more engaged with others as you’re now lifted to eye contact level. Never worry about reaching things in the cabinet. Your Pride Jazzy Air 2 can elevate you to the level you need to reach anything you need.

With a range up to 15 miles, the Pride Jazzy Air can take you all day to run errands, explore, and use every day.

2. Golden Cricket Folding Power Wheelchair

The Golden Cricket Folding Power Wheelchair is one of the favored folding electric wheelchairs. With its one-step folding feature, it’s easy and convenient to use. This folding wheelchair is extremely lightweight, weighing only 39.3 lbs.

The Golden Cricket Folding Powerchair has a driving range of 9.3 miles, perfect for getting through the airport and traveling around.

3. Pride Jazzy 1450

The Pride Jazzy 1450 is an excellent choice for those needing a heavy-duty electric wheelchair. With a weight limit of 600 lbs, this powerchair has everything needed for getting around easily. With a range of 15.7 miles, tight turning radius capabilities, front-wheel drive, and efficient motors, you can go almost anywhere.

Where To Find An Electric Wheelchair

Finding and purchasing an electric wheelchair has never been easier. You can check some of your local shops or you can find the electric wheelchair that fits all your needs online from the comfort of your own home. With an authorized dealer, you know you are getting the best, making sure your powerchair is new with no defects or damage, you receive the full warranty, and you have customer support when you need it. Scooter Direct is an authorized dealer to power wheelchairs, electric scooters, lifts and carriers, and more. We’d be happy to help you find the perfect electric wheelchair to fit your needs and budget.