Any standard mobility scooters come with two batteries consisting of Lead Acid and usually last about three years and sometimes more if they are well looked after. Here are 5 tips to help improve the overall battery lifetime.
1. Charging New Batteries
If your batteries are brand new it is recommended that you charge them fully first and discharge them before charging again. If for example the battery range is 10 miles and you only travel five then is recommended to charge them again. You will only have to do this for the first couple times.
2. Weekly Charging
The best tip we can give is to make sure that you charge your batteries weekly. The main reason why batteries fail or don’t last as long as they should is because the batteries have not been charged up on a weekly basis. Try and get into a routing of plugging the charger in every weekend. It’s important not to interrupt the charging, so don’t disconnect or use the scooter before the charge has fully completed. Please note, this is advisable only if the scooter is not being used. Charge after each use as well to ensure that the batteries remain good.
3. Using The Correct Charger
It is vitally important that you use the correct charger for your battery so if for example you need to replace your charger then please ensure that you use a charger that’s been approved or supplied by the scooter’s manufacture. Using a charger that is not compatible for your batteries may end up damaging the batteries beyond repair or at worst case, cause a potential fire.
4. Keeping The Batteries Dry
It is also important to ensure that your batteries are kept completely dry. Water and dampness can damage the batteries over time so if they do get wet it’s important to dry them with a cloth or towel. Make sure the scooter is switched off first.
5. Storing your batteries
If you are not going to be using your scooter for a while it is recommended that you keep your batteries in a suitable place. As a guideline it is recommended that you store them indoors but not too near a heat source. If you are able to disconnect the batteries via the battery connection under the seat you will ensure that the batteries will barely loose any charge from the next time you use them. Always keep batteries away from cold or freezing conditions as this will add to problems.