Getting your hands on a mobility scooter can be life-changing, it can increase your freedom and independence. However, knowing the longevity of a mobility scooter battery can be a critical consideration. So, how many hours does a mobility scooter battery last?
In general, mobility scooter batteries may only last for 65 miles, Others can last up to 25 miles!
Heavy-duty mobility scooters can be driven around all day before they need a recharge. However, not everyone needs this.
The amount of drive time you get with a mobility scooter is determined by the type of battery it has, some can have lithium batteries. Others may have sealed lead-acid batteries.
It also depends on how many volts there are in the mobility scooter battery and how the batteries are treated.
There is much to consider in helping you ensure that you choose the right mobility scooter for you, so here are some things that you should consider regarding mobility scooter battery longevity.
Some will have lithium batteries. These batteries provide a long run time, and they are ideal for mobility scooters that will be regularly used.
However, if you intend on taking your mobility scooter on an airplane, you need to check with the flight requirements before you rent or buy a scooter with these batteries.
Lead-Acid
A majority of mobility scooters will have sealed lead-acid batteries, usually gel batteries or absorbent glass mat batteries.
Gel batteries are the best choice for mobility scooters that will be used regularly as they often last (see also: How Long Do E Scooters Last?) longer than the AGM alternative, however, AGM batteries are more cost-effective for regular use.
Maximizing Battery Lifespan
Regardless of which mobility scooter and batteries you have, taking care of the batteries is sure to help maximize their longevity. So, how do you do this?
Correct Charging
Firstly, mobility scooter batteries should always be fully charged before they are used for the first time, if you do not ensure that this is the case then this may reduce their ability to recharge properly in the future.
After you have used the mobility scooter, you should charge the batteries and store the mobility scooter with the batteries charged to full.
To do this, you should charge it overnight for 8 to 10 hours. Some smart chargers will shut off the power supply once the battery charging is complete.
Do also note that you should never allow the batteries to be fully drained.
Lead-acid batteries are especially vulnerable to the effects that a full battery discharge can have, and they may not last as long as they should if they are not consistently charged adequately.
Optimal Storage
Be aware that extreme temperatures, hot or cold, as well as humidity, can damage batteries and can cause rust.
When you are finished using your mobility scooter, make sure that it is stored in a cool and dry place out of direct sunlight.
If you do not intend on driving the mobility scooter again for some time, make sure that it is charged fully and allow the batteries a quick charge just before the next time you use it.
If you are going to store it away for a long time, you should be certain to charge it once per month to ensure longevity.
Good Maintenance & Replacement
After the first 12 to 18 months or so, your mobility scooter’s battery may start to drain faster than it did before, and it does not give you the power it once did.
When this happens you need to replace the batteries with the manufacturer-recommended batteries.
Make sure you follow all the instructions provided in the manufacturer’s guide.
Keep In Mind Your Driving Habits
If we assume that your mobility scooter (see also: How To Get Free Mobility Scooter)batteries are new and completely charged, how many hours would you expect to get your battery to last? Well, it depends on how you use the device.
Consider Weight
When a scooter is carrying more weight it will drain faster than if it is carrying a typical load. Every mobility scooter comes with a maximum weight capacity, as well as height restrictions and recommendations.
If you exceed the weight limit then this will certainly reduce the battery life.
Be Mindful Of The Terrain
When you are driving on a flat surface such as a shopping mall floor or a sidewalk, then the batteries in your mobility scooter will last (see also: How Long Does A Hoverboard Battery Last?)for a great deal longer than when you are driving uphill or over rough terrains such as gravel, stone, sand, or even carpet.
Make sure that you are considering this before you use your mobility scooter. Consider where you will be using it.
Think About Speed
Driving at a low to moderate speed will ensure you have a long-lasting battery life, however, if you drive at top speed then this will drain the batteries faster.
Ensure that wherever you are traveling, you leave with plenty of time to spare to maximize the drive time and get the most out of your mobility scooter.
Avoid Stop-Start Driving
Although it is not always possible to avoid, try to avoid stop-start driving, as it takes a lot more power from your mobility scooter to go from stationary to moving than it does to simply continue moving.
Because of this, driving in a stop-start fashion, such as on city sidewalks can reduce your battery life a lot more than continuous driving will. Always consider your journeys, and anticipate use.
Choose The Right Mobility Scooter For You!
Choosing the correct mobility scooter (see also: How To Choose A Mobility Scooter)is a life-altering investment, if you can choose the right model and battery size to suit you and your lifestyle, then it can make a massive difference to your independence.
Before you purchase a mobility scooter, make sure that you are asking yourself the right questions, so you make an informed and educated decision.
Ask things such as:
“Where do I intend on using the mobility scooter?”
“How much weight do I need the mobility scooter to bear?”
“How often will I be using the mobility scooter and for how long will I be using it?”
“What features do I need the mobility scooter to have?”
Note down your answers, understand your requirements, and you are certain to make the right choice for yourself.
Overall
Many things can impact your mobility scooter battery life, however, making sure that you know what it will be used for, how it will be used, and how it will be stored is a big step in ensuring that when you purchase or rent a mobility scooter, it is suitable for you.
A big part of maximizing the battery life of a mobility scooter is making sure that it is a suitable match for its user. User-scooter compatibility will ensure the longevity of the scooter and its battery.
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.
