Properly storing an electric wheelchair is crucial for maintaining its performance, extending its lifespan, and ensuring it's ready for use when needed. This involves protecting it from environmental damage, caring for its essential components like batteries, and ensuring physical stability.
Key Considerations for Electric Wheelchair Storage
Storing an electric wheelchair effectively depends on whether it's for short-term or long-term periods and if it will be stored indoors or outdoors. Prioritizing dryness, temperature control, and battery care are universal principles.
1. Environmental Protection
The environment where your electric wheelchair is stored significantly impacts its longevity. Moisture, extreme temperatures, and dust can degrade components over time.
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Indoor Storage:
- Ideal Location: A dry, temperature-controlled space like a garage, basement, or dedicated storage room is ideal. Avoid areas prone to extreme heat, cold, or high humidity.
- Protection: Even indoors, a lightweight cover can protect against dust accumulation.
- Accessibility: Ensure the storage area allows easy access if the wheelchair is used regularly.
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Outdoor Storage (When Necessary):
- Dryness is Paramount: If indoor storage isn't possible, ensure your outdoor storage area is thoroughly dry. This is critical to prevent rust and damage to electronics.
- Use a Protective Cover: Always use a heavy-duty, waterproof cover specifically designed for mobility scooters or wheelchairs. This cover will protect your scooter or wheelchair from moisture & dust, which are primary culprits for damage in outdoor environments.
- Elevate if Possible: Consider placing the wheelchair on a pallet or blocks to keep it off the cold, damp ground, further minimizing moisture exposure.
- Security: Ensure the outdoor storage location is secure to prevent theft or tampering.
2. Battery Care and Storage
One of the most critical aspects of storing an electric wheelchair, especially for extended periods, is proper battery management.
- Remove Batteries: For any significant storage period, it's highly recommended to remove the batteries & store them separately. This prevents accidental discharge and potential damage.
- Separate Storage Conditions: Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. A temperature range between 50°F and 80°F (10°C to 27°C) is generally recommended.
- Charge Maintenance:
- Ensure batteries are fully charged before storing.
- For long-term storage, check the charge every 2-3 months and top them off to prevent deep discharge, which can permanently damage the battery capacity.
- Follow the manufacturer's specific guidelines for battery charging and maintenance, as different battery types (e.g., lead-acid, lithium-ion) may have varying requirements. You can find more details on mobility battery care guidelines.
3. Pre-Storage Preparation Checklist
Before putting your electric wheelchair into storage, a few steps can help ensure it remains in good condition.
- Clean Thoroughly: Wipe down the entire wheelchair to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Pay attention to crevices and under the seat. A clean machine is less likely to suffer from corrosion or pest issues.
- Check Tire Pressure: Ensure tires are inflated to the recommended PSI. This prevents flat spots from forming during long periods of inactivity. If the wheelchair will be stored for an extended time, you might even consider rotating the tires periodically if easily accessible.
- Power Down Electronics: Turn off all electronic components and ensure the key is removed. This prevents any residual power drain.
- Lock Brakes: Engage the manual brakes to prevent accidental movement.
- Consider Disassembly (Optional): If space is a major concern, some parts like footrests, headrests, or even the seat may be removable, making the chair more compact. Consult your user manual for safe disassembly instructions.
4. Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage
The duration of storage influences the preparation required.
| Feature | Short-Term Storage (Days to Weeks) | Long-Term Storage (Months to Years) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Dry, accessible indoor space preferred. | Dry, temperature-controlled indoor space is highly recommended. |
| Battery | Keep charged, can remain in chair (if regularly checked). | Remove and store separately, maintain charge every 2-3 months. |
| Cover | Recommended for dust protection. | Essential for comprehensive protection against elements and dust. |
| Tire Pressure | Check before storing. | Crucial to maintain to prevent flat spots. |
| Cleaning | Quick wipe-down. | Thorough cleaning is advised. |
| Electronics | Turn off. | Turn off, remove key. |
| Additional Actions | Lock brakes. | Lock brakes, consider elevating off ground (if outdoor). |
For additional tips on maintaining your mobility equipment, you can refer to comprehensive guides on wheelchair maintenance.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your electric wheelchair remains in optimal condition, ready for safe and reliable use whenever you need it.
