A mobility scooter is used by individuals who are disabled or are unable to walk due to other circumstances. It can be an alternative to a wheelchair for those that can walk, but it is not recommended due to surgery or any other circumstance.
But these machines are expensive and are a considerable expense to anyone. This is especially so if the situation is only temporary and the individual only needs a mobility scooter for a short time. That is where used electrical mobility scooters come in. Here, we will discuss owning or renting a used mobility scooter and what must be done to maintain it.
Owning and Maintaining Used Electrical Mobility Scooters
Used mobility scooters, especially electric ones, need to be cared for and maintained, arguably far more than if you buy one brand new. Not only could used scooters have more complications, but they may even require additional care due to wear and tear, general use, and the age of the product.
But even if you have a brand-new electrical mobility scooter, there are no lights or indicators about anything like you would have on a car or even a smartphone. Some might have diagnostic beeps that beep in different patterns to tell you about what is wrong, but in some cases, that might not be enough to maintain it properly.
Maintaining a used electrical mobility scooter requires regular upkeep and attention to ensure it remains in good working condition. Having a checklist to do so is a good alternative when you don’t have more reliable indicators. These tips will be general in nature to fit as many electric mobility scooters as possible. Each manufacturer handles certain aspects in their own way, and the best course of action in this circumstance is to consult the manual provided.
If the owner of your used electrical mobility scooter does not have a manual, these tips might be of help.
Make Sure the Battery is in Good Condition
The battery is a critical component of an electric mobility scooter. You should make sure to charge the battery after every use to ensure it remains full. It is also essential to maintain the battery’s correct charge level by not leaving it completely discharged for extended periods.
A majority of the technical repairs are resolved by simply replacing the batteries of the unit brought in for servicing. Most mobility scooters and power wheelchairs operate on a 24-volt system that requires two 12-volt batteries. However, some lightweight mobility scooters and folding electric wheelchairs are designed to use Lithium batteries, which have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance.
Used electrical mobility scooters will commonly have degraded battery health, even if they have been meticulously cared for. In order to ensure that your batteries last as long as possible, it is recommended that you never let your batteries drop too low. It is best to charge your batteries after using your scooter, regardless of how long you have used them. In other words, keep your batteries fully charged as frequently as possible. If you plan to travel and leave the unit in storage, ensure that the unit is not completely drained, as prolonged periods of completely drained batteries can be harmful to the battery’s overall health.
Make Sure to Clean it Regularly.
Clean the scooter regularly to remove any dirt and debris that can accumulate on it. Although it may seem like a basic suggestion, it is surprising how often used mobility scooters face problems due to being covered in mud, dirt, grass, and other debris. By regularly cleaning your mobility scooter, you can prevent foreign objects from becoming lodged in areas where they shouldn’t be. Grime and dirt buildup in the wheel well and transaxle can cause stress to the motor over time, as it cannot function as designed when not operating freely.
It is recommended to use a slightly damp microfiber cloth mixed with rubbing alcohol and water to carefully wipe down the surfaces of your scooter, avoiding areas that could result in water damage to the mechanical or electrical components.
Additionally, keeping your scooter clean can help maintain its condition if you plan on reselling it later to buy a brand-new one if needed.
Avoid Too Much Stress on the Motor
To optimize the performance of your mobility device, avoid any actions that may place undue stress on the motor. The most common way to do so is by not exceeding the weight capacity of your mobility scooter, which can be found in the product specification in the manual or on the website.
It’s essential to know this rating to prevent motor strain. If you plan to transport additional items like groceries or luggage, be sure to factor in their weight to ensure it stays within the manufacturer’s limit.
Additionally, incline rating is another factor that can cause stress on the motor. When operating on an incline, such as a driveway or sidewalk with a slope, your motor works harder than on a flat surface. Pay attention to the manufacturer’s incline rating, also known as grade climbable, to avoid placing excessive strain on the motor.
Try to Avoid Moisture and Water as Much as Possible
It’s important to note that most mobility scooters are not designed to handle wet conditions. It’s not recommended to drive them over puddles, wet grass, or other moist surfaces, as water can enter the transaxle and wheel well, causing damage to the electrical components.
In order to ensure your mobility scooter remains in good condition and functions optimally, it’s advisable to keep it away from water, moisture, and high humidity levels.
Perform Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Inspections performed regularly are always recommended, even if everything is up to standards. You could also do things like lubricating the moving parts regularly to prevent them from getting rusted and corroded, checking the tires for any punctures, wear and tear, or damage, and checking the brakes, lights, horns, etc.
Conclusion
Used electrical mobility scooters are machines that can be used every day. This, in addition to their second-hand nature, makes it even more necessary to maintain them. Above, we have provided a few tips as a checklist for anyone that can be helpful.