Mobility scooters are a sound investment for people who need some kind of help moving from place to place. So, if you are or know someone in this category, you really should consider buying one for easier movement. Going forward, what happens when the battery no longer functions optimally? Would you have to buy another scooter? The answer is “No.” Because batteries for mobility scooters can be replaced.
Usually, batteries for mobility scooters last anywhere from one to three years, depending on the type and usage frequency. After this period, they begin to trip out while in use and die faster.
No matter! Without wading too far into the situation, you can just replace the battery or have someone do it for you. Place an order online and fix it upon arrival. Mind you, batteries for mobility scooters are different from one another, so you’ve got to be sure which is compatible with your vehicle.
Here, we discuss scooter battery types, important considerations before purchase, and how to maintain and maximize performance. So, let’s get into it.
Types of Mobility Scooter Batteries
1. Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) – Recommended Product: AJC Solar Booster Pac ES5000
Score9.8OUT OF 10
SLA batteries have been around for a while and have become quite a reliable power source for mobility scooters. They consist of a mix of lead plates and electrolytes (usually sulfuric acid and water) to create a rechargeable energy source.
SLA batteries are built to produce a steady amount of energy until they go off, making them ideal for deep-cycle applications. In the mobility scooter context, this battery type has a charging cycle threshold of about 600. In other words, you can charge it up to 600 times before worrying about a replacement. This gives you about 18–24 months of use.
Pros
The best option on a budget
Reliable power output
Mostly comes with a one-year warranty
Retains power quite well even when idle
Cons
Heavier than alternatives
Requires occasional conditioning
Not the best option for high-performance scooters
Longer charging time
2. Gel – Recommended Product: Mighty Max 12V 55AH Gel Battery
Score9.0OUT OF 10
If you want a more high-functioning energy source superior to SLAs, go for a Gel battery. This option offers a few advantages over SLA batteries owing to its “robust” and more sophisticated makeup.
Gel batteries feature silica (a gelling agent) to solidify the electrolyte, sealing and spill-proofing the contents for safety and handling convenience. They are also vibration- and shock-resistant and even offer consistent performance even under intense use.
Overall, gel batteries last longer than SLAs. However, the former is pricier and may require specific chargers if it must deliver optimal performance.
The advent of the lithium-ion battery was indeed a breakthrough development for many industries, including micro-mobility. It is today one of, if not the most popular battery types, as it is commonly found in cell phones, laptops, etc.
Perhaps the best characteristic of Lithium-ion batteries is their higher energy capacity. In other words, they offer longer running times for your mobility scooter so that you can travel longer and farther on just one charge. They also have a robust power-retainer mechanism. As such, you do not have to worry about your vehicle losing power while not in use. Furthermore, they require almost no maintenance through the course of their lifespan, making them a super convenient option for elderly people. Where SLA batteries have a 600 charge-cycle threshold, the figure shoots up quite significantly for Lithium-ion. Generally, the latter can withstand about 2000, while stronger high-end ones go as high as 3000–4000. By implication, Lithium-ion batteries can have a lifespan of more than five years, depending on use frequency.
Pros
Offers longer running times
High power output and efficiency
Low maintenance
Fast-charging feature
Lightweight
Long-lasting
Cons
Quite sensitive to extreme temperatures
Disposal/Recycling issues
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mobility Scooter Battery
1. Battery Ratings
A simple way to measure or forecast a battery’s performance is to look out for its voltage (V) and amperage (Ah). Volts refer to the maximum power output, while amp is the measure of the battery capacity per hour. Higher voltages mean better performance by way of acceleration, maneuverability, speed, etc. On the other hand, the higher the amperage, the longer the running or travel time before requiring a recharge.
Make sure you are aware of your mobility scooter’s compatibility requirements before you let the numbers get you carried away. If you have lost the product manual, the cost of the scooter can be an accurate measure of what works. Generally, 12V–48V and 10Ah–35Ah work for ones that cost anywhere between $100 and $1000. Scooters that cost over $1200 and power chairs work perfectly with batteries with higher voltage and amperage figures. But if you’re still skeptical, simply consult a dealer or professional.
2. Daily Usage and Battery Longevity
Battery type and capacity are crucial determining factors as to how efficiently your mobility scooter performs. So, considering how frequently the scooter is going to be in use is a no-brainer in selecting an ideal option. If you cover long distances, say 20 miles or more per day or every other day, then an SLA battery would be a poor choice. Gel batteries may work, but we strongly recommend Lithium-ion batteries because of their fast charging feature and robust charging cycle endurance. SLA batteries mostly have a threshold between 450 and 700, while a sound Lithium-ion battery can handle 2500+ without issues. Mind you, the final decision all boils down to the specific scooter model and compatibility requirements.
3. Weight and Size
What’s the point of buying a battery bigger than what can possibly fit in your scooter because it’s got higher amp-hours and volts? In the same vein, the weight of a battery directly affects the vehicle’s maneuverability and speed. Sitting on it adds yours to the mix, slowing down the scooter considerably. By implication, there is an increased, unnecessary demand on the battery to supply power for movement. In the long run, you overwork the battery, losing its potency quicker. It’s as good as buying a smaller, cheaper one, which should be nearing the end of its lifespan at about the same time.
4. Charging Time
For people who rely heavily on scooters for movement, picking a fast-charging battery is a smart decision. Lithium-ion batteries charge up quite quickly compared to gels or SLAs. Fast charging ensures reduced downtime periods, and you can have your scooter up and running within a short while. Mind you, slow charging has its benefits. A slow charge is good because it prolongs the lifespan of a battery, given that it has to deal with less current per charge. Less current means less demand on the anode and cathode. So, going for a fast charger is not always advisable.
Depending on the type of battery, maybe once every two to five years if properly used and maintained. While you may need to replace SLA and Gel batteries anywhere between one and a half and three years, Lithium-ion batteries can last up to five.
Yes. By “Upgrade,” you probably mean “change battery type” or “go for higher amperage and volts.” Either way, it’s possible, but make sure you check with the manufacturer, a professional, or the scooter’s user manual.
Once again, how long a fully charged battery runs all boils down to the specific scooter, its capacity, and its type. Generally, a fully charged battery can last anywhere from 10 to 30 miles. You can expect 40 miles or more from high-end scooters with robust battery specifications.
Conclusion: Tips for Maximizing Battery Life and Performance
More than buying powerful batteries, you can maximize your battery life by following these simple tips:
Follow product manual instructions carefully
Only charge when necessary
Disconnect or turn off when the scooter generates a lot of heat
Do not overload the scooter
Only use the charger that comes with the product or issued by the manufacturer
Keep the scooter away from extreme temperatures, hot or cold
Hi! My name is Johnathan, and I am the creator of ScooterAdvice360.com. Having been riding motor scooters and bikes for over 20 years, I have picked up a few things! I ran my own scooter store in Florida, selling all manner of motor scooters, mobility scooters, hoverboards, e-scooters and accessories, from Forzas to Vipers, Hellcats to Vespas.
Here, at ScooterAdvice360.com, I want to ensure everyone has access to the information that they need to enjoy their bikes and scooters for longer.
