Power Wheelchair Safety & Maintenance – Essential Tips for Longevity

Power wheelchairs help people move freely without needing someone else to push them. That independence can make a big difference day to day. But just like any other bit of machinery, they need looking after. If you don’t take care of them properly, they can break down or become unsafe, and repairs aren’t cheap either.

Why Power Wheelchair Safety & Maintenance Matters

Taking care of your power wheelchair isn’t just a good idea — it’s something you need to do. Without regular maintenance, problems can develop quickly, and that can affect your safety, your mobility, and your wallet.

A wheelchair that’s looked after properly is much safer to use. It’s far less likely to break down unexpectedly or develop faults that could put you at risk.

Carrying out routine checks helps you spot issues like loose bolts, worn tyres, or battery problems before they turn into something more serious. This not only helps avoid accidents but keeps everything running smoothly day to day.

Good maintenance also means your wheelchair will last longer. You won’t need to replace parts as often, and you’ll deal with fewer breakdowns over time. That means less disruption and fewer surprises.

Catching small issues early can also save you a lot of money. Something as simple as keeping the battery properly charged or tightening a screw can help you avoid bigger, more expensive repairs later on.

Power Wheelchair Safety Tips

1. Proper Usage & Handling

Before using your wheelchair outdoors, take time to understand how it works and how to handle it safely.

Start by reading the user manual. It may not be the most exciting read, but it contains essential information about how to operate your chair correctly.

Spend some time practising indoors on level ground. This gives you a safe space to get familiar with how your wheelchair responds before using it in more challenging environments.

Pay attention to the speed settings. Begin with a slower pace so you can gradually get used to how the chair moves and accelerates.

When using your wheelchair outside, keep the following in mind:

Stick to smooth, stable surfaces whenever you can. Try to avoid areas with sand, loose gravel, mud, or snow, as these can affect traction and control.
Take extra care on hills. Going downhill too quickly can be dangerous, so reduce your speed and stay in control at all times.
Avoid making sharp turns on slopes. Turning suddenly while on an incline increases the risk of tipping, so it’s best to approach turns slowly and with caution.

Taking these steps helps ensure a safer and more comfortable experience as you become more confident using your wheelchair in different settings.

2. Battery Safety & Charging Best Practices

The battery is a key part of your power wheelchair. Looking after it properly will help ensure the chair runs reliably and lasts longer.

Always use the charger that came with the wheelchair or one that has been approved by the manufacturer. Using other chargers may cause damage or affect performance.
Charge the battery regularly, but avoid leaving it plugged in once it’s fully charged. Overcharging can reduce its lifespan.
Try not to let the battery run completely flat, as this can cause it to deteriorate more quickly over time.

Proper storage also makes a difference:

Store the wheelchair in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing it to very hot or cold temperatures, as these can affect battery health.
Never store the chair with a flat battery. Leaving it empty for too long may result in permanent damage and make recharging difficult.

Taking a few simple steps to care for your battery can go a long way in keeping your wheelchair performing at its best.

3. Safe Transportation & Storage

To keep your wheelchair safe, handle it properly during travel and storage.

If it folds, fold it fully before putting it in a car. Use straps to stop it from moving. Movement during transport can cause damage.

If storing it for a while, cover it. That keeps out dust and damp, which can lead to rust or faults.

Quick tips:

Don’t trap or pull wires.
Don’t stack anything on top.
Check it fully before using after storage.

These steps help your chair stay reliable and ready.

Essential Power Wheelchair Maintenance Tips

1. Routine Cleaning & Inspection

Keeping your wheelchair clean helps it work properly and last longer.

Wipe down the frame every week using a soft cloth with mild soap.
Use a vacuum or soft brush on the seat and backrest—dust and crumbs build up quickly.
Go over all screws and bolts—tighten anything loose.
Test the footrests and armrests—ensure they lock in place and move smoothly.
Also:

Look out for any rust or cracks, especially near the hinges and joints.
Replace worn-out labels so you don’t lose important safety information.

2. Battery Maintenance & Care

Caring for the battery helps you get the most out of it.

Charge the battery after each use, particularly if it’s dropped below halfway.
Avoid overcharging—unplug it once it’s full.
Wipe the terminals with a dry cloth to keep them clean and free from corrosion.
Ensure the cables are firmly connected—loose wires can cause sudden stops or damage.

Watch out for signs that it might need replacing:

The wheelchair starts moving slower than usual.
It doesn’t hold its charge as long, even after charging fully.
There’s swelling or an odd smell coming from the battery.

3. Tire & Wheel Maintenance

Tyres need looking after to keep you safe and steady on the move.

For air-filled tyres, check the pressure once a week.
Steer clear of sharp items or uneven ground when you’re outdoors.
Examine tyres for cuts, cracks, or bulges—change them if they show signs of wear.
Also:

If the chair veers off to one side, check the wheel alignment.
Spin each wheel—there shouldn’t be any grinding, shaking, or stiffness.

4. Motor & Electrical System Checks

You don’t need to be an expert to spot when something’s wrong.

Listen for odd sounds—clicks, hums, or grinding noises can mean trouble.
Test the joystick and control panel—responses should be quick and steady.
If the chair accelerates slowly or moves in a jerky way, it might be linked to the motor.

If anything feels off:

Don’t try to repair it yourself.
Speak to a professional technician or the company that provided the chair.

Where to Buy High-Quality Power Wheelchairs & Accessories

At Assistive Tech Hub, we’re here to help you move better, safer, and more comfortably.

Looking for premium power wheelchairs? We’ve got you covered.

Try our Fully Automatic Reclining Power Wheelchair – designed for all-day comfort and easy adjustments.

Need something lightweight? Our Carbon Fibre Power Wheelchair is strong, compact, and built for travel.

Buying in bulk or for your organization? Visit Assistive Tech Hub Wholesale for exclusive pricing.

Not sure which model suits your needs best? No problem — our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Whatever your mobility goals are, we’re ready to help you reach them.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your power wheelchair doesn’t need to be hard. A little cleaning, regular checks, and safe use go a long way. You’ll avoid breakdowns, stay safe, and keep rolling without stress.

Think of your wheelchair like a trusted friend — take care of it, and it’ll take care of you. With the right safety habits and smart maintenance, you’ll enjoy freedom and mobility for years to come.