Share:
Take it offline!
This Education in Motion resource is also available as a printable PDF.
Download PDF
Powerchair batteries can be original manufacturer parts or compatible batteries recommended by the manufacturer. Some wheelchairs have one, two, or even three batteries, depending on their features and usage requirements.
What Should I Consider When Replacing a Battery?
When replacing your wheelchair battery, there are several factors to consider. The most important, besides the battery type, are its power (amperage and voltage), which determines its range — that is, how many kilometres you can travel before needing to recharge — and the way its elements are connected, either in series or parallel.
What Are the Different Types of Batteries?
There are two main types of batteries for powerchairs:
Lead-acid batteries tend to have less power and do not tolerate overcharging or deep discharges well, which can damage them.
Gel batteries have a high recovery capacity and can last over two years. They are more powerful than AGM batteries and tolerate more charge and discharge cycles. Both types are sealed and very safe. In gel batteries, the electrolyte (or acid) is a silica-based gel, which prevents spills in case of accidents or breakage.
How Long Does a Battery Last?
The lifespan of electric wheelchair batteries depends on how often and how deeply they are discharged. Under normal use, a gel battery can last more than two years.
Regarding usage time, a fully charged battery typically lasts around five hours.
Gel batteries do not develop memory effects that limit their recharge capacity, nor do they need to be fully discharged before recharging. They also withstand vibrations, shocks, and high temperatures well.
Gel batteries have a self-discharge rate below 2% per month, so you don’t need to recharge them frequently if your powerchair isn’t in use.
What Are the Characteristics of Chargers for Powerchair Batteries?
Properly charging your powerchair battery is key to getting the best performance.
It is very important to use the correct charger for each battery type: if the voltage is too low, the battery will not fully charge; if it is too high, the battery may be damaged.
Gel batteries should be charged at approximately 14.25 V for 12 V systems and 28.5 V for 24 V systems.
As a general rule, the minimum charging current for both gel and AGM batteries should be between 15% and 25% of the battery’s capacity. The recommended maximum charging current is 50% for gel batteries and 30% for AGM batteries.
What Is Series Connection and Parallel Connection?
Powerchair batteries are usually 12 volts, although two cells can be used to provide 24 volts. Batteries of this type generally have a longer lifespan, provided they are the correct size and capacity, and are charged properly.
Before replacing gel batteries in your powerchair, you should check whether they are connected in series or parallel.
-
In a series circuit, components are connected end-to-end to form a single path for the current. The positive terminal of one battery connects to the negative terminal of the next. This circuit is intended for batteries with the same capacity, adding their voltage: for example, two 12 V / 120 Ah batteries connected in series form a combined 24 V / 120 Ah battery pack.
-
In a parallel circuit, the input/output terminals of each component are connected to each other, creating multiple paths for current flow. The positive terminals connect together on one side, and the negative terminals on the other. Parallel circuits provide more current but consume more energy, as each battery operates independently
How Should I Transport a Gel Battery? Can I Travel with It by Plane?
-
Gel batteries are completely safe. They have a sealed ventilation system that prevents excess internal pressure and cannot explode under normal conditions.
Furthermore, since the electrolyte inside is solidified, there is no risk of spills or accidents in case of breakage.
This means gel batteries for powerchairs have very few transport restrictions and are approved under A-67 DOT/FAA-IATA regulations for air and public transport. You can safely take them with you when travelling by plane, train, or boat.