3 Tips For Caring For Your Mobility Scooter
Posted on: 10 December 2018
Just as a vehicle needs routine maintenance to keep it running and in good shape, so does your mobility scooter. After all, you depend on it to help you get around and do the things you need to do. Here is what you should know about properly caring for your mobility scooter.
Take Care Of Your Battery
Not all mobility scooters are the same—and neither are their batteries. Most mobility scooter batteries are either GEL (gelified electrolyte) or SLA (sealed lead acid) batteries. Just like cell phones have different types of batteries, some manufacturers recommend that you fully use your battery before charging it again while others don't have this requirement. Keeping your battery plugged into the charger can actually drain your battery and reduce its lifespan if it isn't made to do so. When you care for your battery the way it is supposed to be, you can typically expect it to last up to two years before needing a replacement.
Bottom line, make sure you know what kind of battery you have and when it should and shouldn't be charged. If you aren't sure, consult your manual or ask the sales professional at your medical equipment and supply store.
Keep Your Mobility Scooter Free From Moisture
Moisture is never good for mechanical or electronic devices. The "joystick" or controller can be especially vulnerable to moisture. If the delicate parts get wet, they can become corroded or cause an electrical short in the system. Even high humidity or dew can get into the casing and cause an issue. To avoid this, don't use your mobility scooter in the rain or on damp, humid days. If you need to, make sure you use a soft cloth to dry everything off. If you store your mobility outside or in the garage, dry it off after each use and then cover it. Your sales professional can recommend the right all-weather, waterproof cover for your specific model.
Keep Your Tires In Good Shape
As with vehicles, many mobility scooters have tires that must be inflated and cared for. Before each ride, perform a pre-trip inspection by ensuring your tire treads are free of rocks and other debris and are properly inflated. You can buy an inexpensive air compressor to make sure you never end up stranded with a flat tire. You will also want a spare tire just in case you end up with an unexpected puncture.
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