How to Maintain Your Powerchair for Optimal Performance

A powerchair can be a game-changer, offering independence and mobility that’s truly empowering. But, like any other essential equipment, your powerchair needs a little love and care to keep it running smoothly. The secret to keeping your powerchair in top shape? Regular maintenance.

1. Daily Checks You Should Never Skip

Start your maintenance routine with a quick daily check. It doesn’t need to take long, but it makes a world of difference in spotting issues before they become major headaches.

What to Look For Daily:

Battery Level – Make sure your battery is charged enough for the day ahead. Running out of power mid-way through your day can be frustrating, to say the least.
Tyre Inspection – Give your tyres a once-over. Look out for any wear and tear, cracks, or embedded objects that could cause a flat.
Joystick Functionality – Test your joystick to ensure it’s responding properly. A sticky or sluggish joystick could be a sign of underlying problems.
Brakes – Always check that your brakes are fully functional. A quick test could prevent an accident.

These simple steps, taken daily, can prevent bigger issues down the line.

2. Weekly Maintenance Tasks

In addition to your daily checks, setting aside some time each week for a more thorough inspection is essential. These tasks are designed to ensure all powerchairs are kept in prime condition, ensuring they’re always ready when the users need them.

Weekly Tasks to Focus On:

Tyre Pressure – Low tyre pressure can affect the chair’s performance and make it harder to manoeuvre. Use a pressure gauge to ensure the tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
Clean the Frame and Upholstery – Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate on your powerchair, especially if you use it outdoors. A gentle wipe-down with a damp cloth will keep it looking good and prevent the build-up of substances that could damage the chair.
Check the Battery Connections – Loose or corroded connections can lead to performance issues. Give the battery terminals a look and clean them if necessary.
Test Lights and Indicators – If your powerchair has lights, indicators, or other electronic features, make sure they’re all functioning correctly.

A little effort each week can prevent significant wear and tear, keeping your chair running smoothly.

3. Monthly Maintenance Must-Dos

Once a month, it’s worth giving your motorised chair a more detailed inspection. This is where you’ll tackle the slightly bigger tasks that might not need doing every day or week but are crucial for long-term performance.

Monthly Maintenance Checklist:

Deep Clean – Give your powerchair a thorough clean. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to wipe down the frame, and pay attention to any crevices where dirt might build up. Don’t forget to clean the upholstery with an appropriate cleaner.
Inspect the Electronics – Check all electronic components, including the joystick, for any signs of wear or damage. Make sure all buttons and controls are functioning as they should.
Lubricate Moving Parts – To ensure your powerchair moves smoothly, lubricate any moving parts like joints, hinges, and axles. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as this can attract dust and grime.
Check the Suspension – If your powerchair has a suspension system, inspect it for signs of wear. Ensure that all components are functioning correctly, as poor suspension can affect comfort and stability.
Examine the Seat and Backrest – Look for any signs of wear or damage to the seat and backrest. Make sure they’re still offering the support you need.

Taking the time to complete these monthly tasks can prevent many common powerchair problems and keep your chair in peak condition.

4. Quarterly Maintenance

Every three months, it’s time for a more in-depth review of your powerchair. These tasks are crucial for ensuring that your powerchair continues to operate at its best over the long term.

Quarterly Maintenance Tasks:

Battery Health Check – Batteries degrade over time, so it’s essential to check their health regularly. Look for any signs of swelling, leaks, or reduced performance. If you notice any issues, it might be time to replace the battery.
Professional Inspection – If possible, have a professional service your powerchair. They can identify and fix issues that you might not have noticed.
Tyre Replacement – Depending on how much you use your powerchair, your tyres might need replacing every few months. Check the tread depth and look for any bald spots that indicate it’s time for new tyres.
Inspect the Motor – The motor is the heart of your powerchair, so it’s important to make sure it’s running smoothly. Listen for any unusual noises and ensure it’s delivering the power it should.
Check the Caster Wheels – Caster wheels are often overlooked but are essential for smooth navigation. Check for any signs of wear or damage and replace them if necessary.

These quarterly tasks are more in-depth but are key to ensuring your powerchair remains reliable.

5. Annual Maintenance: The Big Review

Once a year, your powerchair deserves a full check-up. This annual review is all about ensuring that every component is functioning correctly and that any potential issues are addressed before they can cause a problem.

Annual Maintenance Steps:

Full Professional Service – If you haven’t had a professional service your chair quarterly, now is the time. A professional can provide a comprehensive inspection and service, addressing any issues that might have been missed.
Battery Replacement (if needed) – Even with the best care, batteries have a limited lifespan. If your battery is over a year old and showing signs of wear, it’s worth considering a replacement.
Full Tyre Replacement – If you haven’t replaced your tyres during the year, do it now. Fresh tyres ensure the best performance and safety.
Full Frame Inspection – Look for any signs of stress, cracks, or other damage to the frame. Addressing these issues early can prevent more serious problems down the line.
Software Updates – If your powerchair has software components, check for any available updates. Keeping the software up-to-date can improve performance and ensure compatibility with any new devices or accessories you might want to add.

An annual check-up is a chance to reset and ensure your powerchair is in the best possible condition for the year ahead.

Keep It Rolling

Maintaining your powerchair doesn’t have to be a chore. With a bit of regular care, you can keep it performing at its best, ensuring that it’s always ready to help you get where you need to go. By following this guide, you’ll not only extend the life of your powerchair but also enjoy a safer, more reliable ride.

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