Mobility Scooter Batteries
For most people buying a mobility scooter is a significant investment and no doubt you’ll be excited about all the possibilities ahead but take time to consider the batteries because they will significantly impact on the performance of the mobility scooter, the maintenance required and your future spend on replacement mobility scooter batteries.
Mobility Scooter Battery Types
You’ll want to get the most out of your mobility scooter and that means being able to rely on a well-maintained mobility scooter battery which performs to an optimum. You’ll also need to know something about your battery replacement options when your current set run out.
Batteries for mobility scooters come in the following 4 types:
1 SLA (Sealed Lead Acid) Battery
SLA’s offer value for money and their robust build makes them suited to multi-terrain mobility scooters.
They’re usually too heavy to suit lightweight mobility scooter models but they are low maintenance, cheap, air travel safe and great for occasional use.
Battery life is usually between 12-18 months, depending on use and maintenance.
2 AGM (Absorbant Glass Mat) Battery
AGMs are lead batteries much like SLA batteries. They’re affordable and reliable, best suited for occasional journeys on quite flat terrain. Great value for money and cheaper than GEL batteries.
Battery life is usually between 12-18 months, depending on use and maintenance.
3 GEL Battery
More suited than SLA’s and AGM’s for everyday use, they’re air travel safe and very low maintenance. Their life span sits somewhere between SLA’s and Lithium batteries.
It’s often the case that they won’t hit optimal performance until 20 plus full charges but you’ll have to check the mobility scooter owner’s manual for specific guidance on performance and this varies according to mobility scooter model.
Battery life is usually between 12-18 months, depending on use and maintenance.
4 Lithium ion Battery
More expensive than SLA’s, GEL’s and AGM’s but they can last between 7 and 10 times longer with potentially a 40% longer range. They’re the most costly type price wise but over a period of time can be much more cost efficient than the others as you’ll save on replacement battery purchases and get a better performance.
Safe for air travel and recyclable, they’re light and well-suited for light weight mobility scooters especially the folding types. Great for regular use and suited to multi-terrain mobility scooters.
Battery life is usually 10 + years, depending on use and maintenance.
All mobility scooter batteries are 12 Volt irrespective of type. Most Mobility Scooters have two 12V batteries for a 24 Volt output.
Most basic boot scooters will have 12 Ah batteries which is enough capacity to run at 4 mph, while 8 mph scooters and some high-performance powerchairs will have 70 Ah batteries, which are typically larger, heavier, and more expensive.
Storage and Maintenance of Mobility Scooter Batteries
Batteries for mobility scooter should be kept in a cool and dry place. Mobility scooter model designs mean the battery will withstand light showers and be generally watertight but take care to come out of the rain as soon as you can.
Generally, you’ll be able to leave the battery in the scooter to charge it although a few models required you to take them out. Consider a Mobility Scooter Cover if you need to leave it outside for any period of time.
When taking the battery out of the scooter always store it in a cool and dry place. And perhaps place them in a box or bag to protect against dust etc.
Having considered all of the above make sure you can lift the battery – depending on the type of battery they can often be weighty. If you think you’ll struggle with it consider if you’ll have someone to help.
Charging a Mobility Scooter Battery
Always check the section on manual for each mobility scooter model for instructions but consider the following guidelines:
- Charge the battery fully after taking delivery of your product from the retailer.
- Use the charger provided for the specific mobility scooter model. Don’t use a car charger or other types which might invalidate your warranty.
- Charge the battery ideally overnight and not for less than eight hours or for longer than 24 hours– most mobility scooters are ‘smart chargers’ meaning they will cut out when the battery is fully charged.
- Charge the battery if it’s running low (usually the mobility scooter will have an indicator showing you this) try to avoid draining the battery which could decrease performance and shorten the life of the battery.
- If you going to put them in storage give them a full charge first and then once every week or so. Always disconnect the charger when done to avoid a residual drain of power.
- Best practice before you set out on a trip is to have a full charge – you never know where the road will take you and you don’t want to be caught out on your travels. So charge the battery after every use – the battery will last longer and you’ll be ready for the next trip.
Other Factors to Consider
Mobility scooters batteries life and performance can be affected by excessive stop-starting, heavy loads, rough terrain, hills and even very hot weather so bear these factors in mind.
If a battery won’t charge or hold its charge consider the following:
- Wear and tear has taken it’s toll and battery is ready to be replaced.
- Damage to the battery has occurred due to misuse or regularly pushing the mobility scooter to beyond recommended limits. Additionally, wires may be disconnected or burnt out. If the battery overheats it could be an indication that it needs to be replaced.
- The charger could be faulty. In this case check the charger by connecting it to a another scooter or test the mobility scooter battery output voltage with a multi-meter.
Replacing Mobility Scooter Batteries
It’s usually best to replace both batteries at the same time, even if only one of them needs it. Both batteries will have been through the same experience and the battery which is functioning fine might lose performance soon anyway.
It’s also sensible both batteries are from the same manufacturer and of same battery type preferably with the same batch dates (you can ask the retailer to confirm this).
Bringing it All Together
For optimal mobility batteries for scooters need to be looked at carefully prior to purchase – they could impact your intended use and future spend significantly. Also, take care to follow the owner’s manual guidance in treating and maintaining the mobility scooter battery. Keep each battery dry, charge after each use, handle the scooter with care and you’ll be fine.
Take a look at our Quick View Options below. Maybe there’s something of interest in there for you!
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