What to Know When Choosing Batteries for Mobility Scooters or Power Wheelchairs

When choosing batteries for mobility equipment like scooters or power chairs, it’s important to select the right type for safety, performance, and longevity. Here are the key things to consider:

1. Battery Type

Most mobility devices use deep-cycle sealed lead-acid (SLA) or gel-type batteries. Some newer models may support lithium-ion batteries.

• AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat): Maintenance-free, spill-proof, and budget-friendly. Suitable for moderate use.
• Gel: Better suited for frequent or deep discharges. Longer lifespan but more expensive.
• Lithium-ion: Lightweight, fast-charging, and long-lasting. Higher upfront cost, but better performance overall.

Note:  Always confirm that your device supports lithium before you consider switching & contact a company with expertise and experience in this area.

2. Correct Voltage and Capacity (Ah)

• Voltage (V) must match your mobility scooter or wheelchair’s system—usually 12V batteries in a 24V system (2x 12V in series).
• Amp-Hour (Ah): Higher Ah = longer range. Choose the largest Ah rating your device can fit.

Note:  Check battery compartment dimensions and weight limits.

3. How You Use Your Equipment

• Occasional Use: AGM is usually sufficient.
• Frequent or Long-Distance Use: Consider Gel or Lithium for longer life, more cycles and deeper discharge handling.

4. Charger Compatibility

Use a charger that matches the battery type:

• AGM and Gel use different charge profiles.
• Lithium requires a charger designed specifically for lithium batteries.
• Only use chargers that meet Australian standards. Beware of cheap chargers online.

Note: Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and cause fire hazards.

5. Battery Life & Warranty

• AGM: ~200–300 cycles
• Gel: ~500+ cycles
• Lithium: 1000+ cycles

Note: Look for batteries with good warranties; some are only 6 months, but others offer a 12-month warranty. Some Lithium batteries offer even longer warranties.

6. Environmental Considerations

• AGM and Gel perform well in normal Australian temperatures.
• Lithium handles the cold well but may need protection from overcharging in heat.
• Consider your nighttime temperatures during the winter and peak temperatures during the summer when selecting your batteries.

7. Trusted Brands

Choose reliable, proven brands for peace of mind and long-term value. We recommend:

• Summit Batteries - high performance, well-priced, Australian-owned. They also offer some battery sizes in fire-retardant casing.
• Drypower - reliable and widely used
• MK - a premium USA brand

8. Battery Recycling

• Never dispose of your batteries in the rubbish bin
• Used batteries must be stored safely and sent for recycling
• Always return your batteries to a local drop-off point
• Perth Mobility will happily recycle any mobility batteries and will also take mixed household batteries for recycling.

9. Safety Warnings

• Don’t use car chargers – use only approved mobility battery chargers.
• Only use chargers that meet Australian standards; be wary of cheap chargers online.
• Don’t leave batteries uncharged for long periods.
• Avoid storing in extreme heat, cold, or damp areas.
• Don’t mix battery brands or ages.
• Never tamper or try to open sealed batteries – fire or acid hazard.

Lastly...

When it comes time to replace your batteries, ask questions. Find the right battery for your device. Perth Mobility can help you find the best batteries for your mobility device.

If you are unsure if your battery is safe or you have any concerns, get in contact with your trusted mobility equipment supplier.

Perth Mobility have your safety as a #1 priority and is always happy to answer your questions. Perth Mobility have years of experience in batteries, charging and recycling, so call, email or come into our store for all your battery needs.