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Quantum 1402 www.quantumrehab.com 33
VII. BATTERIES AND CHARGING
How can I get maximum range or distance per charge?
Rarely do you have an ideal driving situation such as smooth, flat, hard terrain with no wind, hills, or curves.
More often you are presented with hills, sidewalk cracks, uneven and loosely packed surfaces, curves, and
wind. All of these factors affect the distance or running time per battery charge. The following are a few sugges-
tions for obtaining the maximum range per charge.
! Always fully charge the batteries prior to your trip.
! Maintain 35 psi (2.4 bar) in pneumatic drive wheels.
! Plan your trip in advance to avoid inclines if possible.
! Limit baggage weight to essential items.
! Try to maintain an even speed and avoid stop-and-go driving.
What type of battery should I use?
We recommend deep-cycle batteries that are sealed and maintenance free. Both AGM and Gel-Cell are deep-cycle
batteries that are similar in performance. Refer to the Specification Table for more information regarding the
batteries used with your power chair.
WARNING! Corrosive chemicals are contained in batteries. Use only AGM or Gel-Cell
batteries to reduce the risk of leakage or explosive conditions.
Why do my new batteries seem weak?
Deep-cycle batteries employ a much different chemical technology than that used in car batteries, nickel-cadmium
batteries (nicads), or in other common battery types. Deep-cycle batteries are specifically designed to provide
power, drain down their charge, and then accept a relatively quick recharge. AGM and Gel-Cell batteries should be
charged as often as possible. They do not have a “memory” like nickel-cadmium batteries.
We work closely with our battery manufacturer to provide a battery that best suits your power chair’s specific
demands. Fresh batteries arrive regularly at Pride and are promptly shipped with a full charge. During shipping, the
batteries encounter temperature extremes that may influence initial performance. Heat robs the charge from the
battery, and cold slows the power available and extends the time needed to recharge the battery (just as with a car
battery).
It might take a few days for the temperature of the battery to stabilize and adjust to its new ambient temperature.
More importantly, it takes a few “charging cycles” (a partial drain—then a full recharge) to establish the critical
chemical balance that is essential to the battery’s peak performance and long life. It is well worth it to take the time
to break in your battery properly.
NOTE: The useful life of a battery is quite often a reflection of the care it receives.
How can I ensure maximum battery life?
A fully charged, deep-cycle battery provides reliable performance and extended battery life. Keep your power
chair’s batteries fully charged whenever possible. Batteries that are regularly and deeply discharged, infrequently
charged, or stored without a full charge may be permanently damaged, causing unreliable power chair operation
and limited battery life.