Electric scooters, wheelchairs and powerchairs all run off batteries. It is important to look after the batteries as they are costly, relatively difficult to replace and, if you don't, you could get stuck somewhere for a period of time!

First things first- a battery's life is dependant upon many things. The size of the battery is one of the first factors- it is not uncommon for a 10amp or 12amp battery to only last 18 months, whereas a 30amp - 40amp could last for two years plus. Another factor that can effect the lifespan is how much it is used (not just charged, but fully drained and used). If a scooter says it's maximum theoretical distance is 35km, and you use it for 35km every day, it will probably reduce its life by as much as six months (depending on the brand and duty). Finally is the charging cycles which we will go in-depth into later in the article.

Most electric disability scooters on the market run two 12 volt batteries (making a total of 24v)- this is important to remember as many people look at their portable scooters 'battery pack' and assume that there is only one inside. If you were to open that box, you would find two batteries ranging from 10amp - 18amp. The most common type of battery for scooters is 'Sealed Lead Acid'. These batteries are non-spillable and non-ventilated. It is for this reason that most airlines allow you to take them on as 'special luggage' (please validate this with your airline prior to travel date). It also means that you do not have to top them up with acid or distilled water. Please remember to only buy these batteries from an authorized battery shop (such as the Mobility Shop) and not a regular car mechanic- batteries produce hydrogen through their ventilated ports and, along with the constant electrical use under the scooters chassis, this can create a dangerous bomb-like situation under your seat.

Over the past decade there has been some advances in batteries; it is now quite common to be able to upgrade your batteries. This does not mean simply buying higher amperage ones (you could damage the wiring, the onboard computer etc.), moreso that you can change the type of battery used. Gel batteries are one upgrade you can buy to improve performance. They offer a longer lasting life and their slightly more robust make-up means that it is harder to kill them through accidental negligence or misuse. Another common upgrade is 'Electric Vehicle' batteries that utilize newer technology such as stainless steel internal mechanisms. The newest type of battery to be used in this industry is Lithium Ion, however these cells cannot as yet be retro-fitted to existing machines. You would generally see these batteries used in some new portable types.

Charging your electric scooter, wheelchair or powerchair is vital for keeping your batteries fresh. The Mobility Shop has spoken to the leading manufacturers of electric mobility equipment in Australia, and numerous battery suppliers too, who have all cleared the misconceptions regarding scooter battery maintenance. The unanimous consensus is that these batteries are designed to be topped-up as regularly as possible rather than run-down every time. Although draining a battery every now and again is not detrimental to the battery, it has been proven that constant use under these conditions will reduce lifespan. Also, the batteries will lose power by just sitting idle (over a period of weeks). Therefore when you go to use it next time the machine will have less power than when you left it, causing the batteries to be under greater strain on that trip. The best thing to remember is that you cannot overcharge these types of batteries. They are dissimilar to the older style and will not develop a memory. If, as a rule, you leave them on charge as often as possible you cannot go wrong.

Choosing the wrong battery can be dangerous and costly. Please make sure you speak to a professional if you have any doubts about the type and size of battery to use in your machine!