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Tips on Lithium-Ion Battery Maintenance for Electric Wheelchairs

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If you rely on an electric wheelchair for mobility, it's essential to properly maintain the lithium-ion battery that powers it. A well-maintained battery will not only last longer, but it will also perform better.

Here are some tips to help you maintain your electric wheelchair's lithium-ion battery:

  1. Store the battery in a cool, dry place when not in use.
    Avoid extreme temperatures, which can cause the battery to degrade faster. Also, ensure that the battery is stored in a level position, to prevent any damage to the internal components.

  2. Charge the battery regularly.
    Make sure to charge the battery regularly, even if you haven't used your electric wheelchair for a few weeks. This will help prevent the battery from completely discharging, which can cause long-term damage.

  3. Use the right charger.
    Ensure that you're using the correct charger for your lithium-ion battery. Using a charger that's not specifically designed for your battery can cause damage, reducing the battery's performance and lifespan. All AreteHealth electric wheelchairs comes with a matching charger for the battery.

  4. Avoid overcharging.
    Never overcharge your lithium-ion battery. Overcharging can cause permanent damage, reducing the battery's performance and lifespan. For example, our chargers have a green indicator light to signal it is fully charged and you should stop charging.

  5. Clean the battery regularly.
    Regularly clean the battery and the connections, to ensure that they're free from debris and corrosion. Cleaning the battery and connections will help to prevent any electrical problems that could reduce the battery's performance. There is no need to clean AreteHealth electric wheelchair batteries or its connections which are inside a plastic casing which protects it from the elements.

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your lithium-ion battery for your electric wheelchair is well-maintained and performs at its best. Proper maintenance will not only increase the lifespan of the battery, but it will also provide you with reliable and consistent mobility. If you need a battery replacement or are unsure about how to properly maintain your AreteHealth electric wheelchair battery, feel free to consult us or a professional service provider.

At Arete First, we offer a range of electric wheelchairs for individuals who require them. Our aim is to bring products of excellent quality to our customers, so feel free to contact us for a test drive or any other enquiries.

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Choosing the Right Electric Wheelchair: A Guide for People with Disabilities

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Electric wheelchairs, also known as power wheelchairs, are designed to provide people with disabilities greater independence and mobility. They are powered by batteries and can be operated by the user using a joystick or other control device.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Wheelchair:

  1. Size and weight capacity: Make sure that the wheelchair is the right size for the user and can support their weight.

  2. Comfort: Look for a wheelchair that has comfortable seating and back support, as well as adjustable features such as seat height and angle, footrests, and armrests.

  3. Maneuverability: Consider the environment where the wheelchair will be used and choose a wheelchair that is easy to maneuver in tight spaces or over uneven terrain.

  4. Control device: Find a type of control device that is suitable for the user, which can be a joystick, wireless remote, Bluetooth app on your handphone, etc. Look out for the changeability of the side of a joystick remote if the user requires it to be on either left or right side. Arete First Electric Wheelchairs comes with the 3 types of control options and interchangeable sides for the joystick controller.

  5. Durability: Look for a wheelchair that is made with high-quality materials and has a sturdy frame that can withstand regular use.

  6. Portability: If the wheelchair will need to be transported frequently, consider a lightweight or foldable wheelchair for ease of transport.

  7. Power source: Power wheelchairs can come with different power source options, such as lead-acid battery or lithium-ion battery; which differs greatly in weight and cost. The capacity of the battery can also vary, affecting the distance the power wheelchair can travel on a single charge.

  8. Safety: Most electric wheelchairs come with safety features such as brakes, anti-tip wheels, anti-roll back motors and seat belts to ensure the user's safety.

  9. Additional features: Some wheelchairs come with additional features such as cup holders, trays, and even bags, that can make the user's experience more convenient.

For example our AreteHealth Cruiser Electric Wheelchair (Model 107):

PRODUCT SPECIFICATION
Seat Width
18 " / 45 cm
Max Weight Limit
100 kg
Comfort
Padded seat & back, movable armrest & footrest
Size
1100 x 630 x 960 mm
Control Device
Joystick, wireless remote, Bluetooth app on your mobilephone
Durability
High
Frame Material
Aluminium
Portability
Weight of Product
26 kg
Foldable
Yes
Power Source
Lithium-ION Battery
Battery Capacity
12 Ah
Distance on Full Charge
25 km
Safety Features
Anti-tip wheels, anti-roll back motors, seat belts
Additional Features
Add-on basket, cane holder

In conclusion, choosing the right electric wheelchair is a crucial step for people with disabilities to ensure they have the mobility assistance they need. With this guide, you can choose a wheelchair that will provide you with the freedom and independence you need to live your life to the fullest.

At Arete First, we offer a wide range of health and fitness products for individuals who require them. Our aim is to bring products of excellent quality to our customers, so feel free to contact us for any enquiries.

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LTA Regulations on Personal Mobility (PMA) in Singapore

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Figure 1: LTA Rules on Where You Can Ride Your PMA
LTA - Active Mobility Act (AMA).
Accessed via: LTA - Rules and Code of Conduct.

For Personal Mobility Aids (PMAs) (Mobility Scooters and Motorised Wheelchairs)

  1. Maximum motorised device speed of 10km/h

  2. A mobility scooter must satisfy the following:
    1. Has 3 or more wheels and a footboard;
    2. Is steered byhandlebars or delta tiller;
    3. Has only one seat (i.e. devices with multiple seats are not considered mobility scooters);
    4. Is designed to carry only one individual who is unable to walk or has difficulties walking; and
    5. Is propelled by a motor that forms part of the vehicle.

The most IMPORTANT distinction to note is that "mobility scooters are designed for the elderly and handicapped. However, they are often confused with "electric scooters" or "e-scooters", which generally refer to fast-moving 2-wheeled scooters which can go as fast as 25 km/h.

Accordingly, some of the regulations applicable to e-scooters DO NOT APPLY to mobility scooters. These include:

  • UL2272 Certification: DOES NOT APPLY
  • Device registration with LTA: DOES NOT APPLY

For further clarifications, please feel free to contact us or the LTA directly.

[2022 Update]: With the rising complaints that PMAs are being abused by individuals without any prior mobility problems, the Government is looking into implementing more restrictive policies. Potential requirements to own a PMA might come in the form of a doctor’s certification and PMA COE. The current maximum speed limit that PMAs can travel on public paths is limited to 10km per hour. This review of PMA law is part of the Government’s effort to ensure safety while staying ahead of rising trends.