5 Power Wheelchair Maintenance Hacks to Keep It Running Smoothly
There are many reasons why you may need to use a wheelchair. Perhaps you were involved in an accident; you have a disability or even a chronic illness. Whatever the reason, it’s important to use a functional wheelchair at all times. It should be sturdy and should offer your desired comfort.
The wheelchair should not add more pain to your injury or illness, and that’s why you should regularly maintain it.
Usually, all power wheelchairs come with maintenance hacks that you should follow. However, you may need to learn more about keeping the wheelchair in good condition, and that’s why we have this guide.
Keep reading for helpful insights on how to keep your wheelchair running smoothly.
Importance of Proper Power Wheelchair Maintenance
One main benefit of maintaining a wheelchair is preventing possible accidents.
When you don’t often check on it, some parts may become loose and weak and threaten your mobility. Remember that a wheelchair is made of several moving parts joined together, and they are prone to damage.
Proper maintenance ensures that every part is in order, minimizing the possibility of potential accidents.
Another main benefit of proper maintenance is prolonging the life of the power wheelchair. A well-maintained power wheelchair can serve you for many years compared to a poorly maintained one. The extended lifespan saves you money on repairs or even the cost of buying a new one.
Usually, all power wheelchairs have similar maintenance hacks, but you should choose a design you can maintain. When buying a power wheelchair, check its designs and features well to ensure it’s something you will readily handle, even without additional assistance. For instance, a foldable power wheelchair can be easy to maintain because you can fold it to check its parts well.
Wheelchair Maintenance Tips To Observe
Here are helpful tips to help maintain the functional and aesthetic benefits of your wheelchair.
1. Clean Regularly
Cleaning is one of the simplest yet effective methods for maintaining a wheelchair.
As you know, the device gets dirty with time, whether you are using it or not. It accumulates dust and even spills which could affect its look. Not only does the dust lower its aesthetics, but it can also potentially damage some parts. For instance, soil particles or leaves that get stuck on the wheels can hinder smooth movement.
To avoid this, you should clean the wheelchair thoroughly and regularly. Make a habit of dusting it off with a soft cloth or wiping it after each use to avoid dirt build-up. While cleaning with water, avoid harsh chemicals and soaps that could damage the wheelchair fabric.
2. Store It Well
You should always store your wheelchair well when you are not using it. If you will be traveling or won’t use it for some time, keep it indoors to avoid the harsh environmental impacts. In addition, cover it with a reliable cover to prevent possible moisture or dust from accumulation on it. Handle it with care as well when you are moving from one place to another to avoid physical damage, which can shorten its lifespan and make it less functional.
3. Keep the Battery and Power System in Order
A power wheelchair uses electricity, its main distinguishing feature from a manual wheelchair. As such, it comes with a battery, charging ports, and some wire compartments. All these elements coordinate to power the wheelchair, so they should always be in good condition.
Before you use your wheelchair, make it a habit to check the battery and the power system. Ensure that the charging port is clean and that it charges well. Check for signs of rust or corrosion regularly, and ensure there are no loose wires that could affect the overall charging system.
4. Inspect Regularly
Besides the power systems, your wheelchair deserves an overall regular inspection. The inspection helps you confirm that all parts of your wheelchair are still intact so that you can know if you should change any of them. One of the most important things that you should check when inspecting is your wheels and tires. They should be air-filled every time to prevent punctures. There should also be no missing parts to prevent possible accidents. Here are other things that you should check when inspecting your power wheelchair.
- Seating: Ensure there is no wear and tear on your seat, which could lessen your comfort when using the wheelchair.
- Lights: Most power wheelchairs come with lights. Confirm regularly if they are properly connected and working.
- Brakes: Brakes allow you to control your wheelchair. Ensure they are intact all the time.
5. Repair and Replace When Necessary
Despite what we might wish, the reality is that even the most robust power wheelchair doesn’t stay forever. There comes a time when you should entirely replace. This can happen when it’s too old beyond repair or when you need to upgrade it. You don’t need to hold on to an extremely old wheelchair as it will be less useful and chances of breakdown will be high. When that time comes, just replace it to enjoy smooth rides. But before then, you should also not replace it when you can repair it. If the wheelchair has visible signs of wear and tear and don’t know what to do, seek the help of a professional for guidance and advice on how to maintain it.
Conclusion
A power wheelchair is a valuable investment that requires proper care and maintenance. It facilitates your movement, you should be safe. As you buy it, be sure to get the manual highlighting manufacturers’ guidelines for cleaning and taking care of it. Be sure to ask for professional help as well when necessary.
