For choosing an electric wheelchair It is necessary to be very clear about the conditions in which it is going to be used and where we are going to do it. Taking long walks through different areas is not the same as going from room to room in a house. However, there are chairs that offer good performance for different uses. Therefore, here we bring you three examples whose characteristics make them a good option if you are looking for versatility.
These three electric wheelchairs have in common their good load capacity, rear wheel drive and possibility of folding. All important qualities to be able to use them in various circumstances. The fact that the rear wheels move the chair gives it good maneuverability, while still allowing it to overcome certain irregularities in the terrain. In addition, these models can carry a person weighing between 100 and 120 kg and have a range of between 13 and 20 km. That it is a suitable scope for daily use with the odd ride.
Comparison of the best electric wheelchairs
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Tripaide Wheelchair... | See features | 6 reviews | View deals |
| Price quality |
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Mobiclinic, Cenit model, ... | See features | 46 reviews | View deals |
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DeVilbiss Disc... | See features | 68 reviews | View deals |
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Power Chair Electric Wheelchair
We start with the Power Chair electric wheelchair. A model that stands out for its load capacity despite not being too cumbersome to be able to maneuver with it. It is capable of safely transporting a person weighing up to 120 kg. Which makes it one of the most capable within its typology.
Its two 20 Ah capacity batteries allow it to be autonomy of up to 15 km and with its 340 W motor it is capable of reaching 7 km / h forward and 4 km / h in reverse. These benefits are more than valid for walks of a moderate distance. Although, if it is going to be used for this, it is advisable to opt for the solid rear wheels. They cost 48 euros more, but they will allow you to forget about the typical punctures when driving it outside.
Regarding its manageability inside the house, its measurements are the most contained in the comparison, 1 meter long with the footrests included (76 cm if folded down), 64 cm wide with the wheels included and 90 cm high. In addition, its turning radius is 75 cm, making it a good option for maneuvering in tight spaces, such as those that can be found inside the home or at work.
Queraltó Cenit electric wheelchair
The second electric wheelchair that we bring you is the Cenit model from the Queraltó brand. The best option for walks outside from home of this comparison. Its autonomy is 20 km with its two 20 Ah batteries fully charged. In return, he has a maximum speed of 6 km / h, which is slightly lower than the Power Chair.
Apart from its autonomy, the Queraltó Cenit is a good option to move away from home because it has solid rear wheels as standard, supported by anti-roll wheels. This allows you to tackle hills and uneven terrain without worrying about falling backwards.
Su manageability indoors is good, but slightly worse than the Power Chair, due to its somewhat larger dimensions. In closed spaces every inch counts. It measures 105 cm long including footrests, 65 cm wide and 99 cm high.
Qwhome Electric Wheelchair
The third option in this electric wheelchair comparison is the Qwhome. A model that stands out for its low weight and contained dimensions once folded. Although the previous ones can also be folded, this chair is the one that occupies the least and the one that weighs the least. About half in both data.
Obviously, to achieve this, it sacrifices several things, but where it is most noticeable is in its autonomy. Batteries are the heaviest component in a wheelchair of these characteristics. With them 100% charged it is capable of traveling between 13 and 15 km, because they have a capacity of 13 Ah, which is the smallest in this comparison. Despite this, and perhaps because of its lower weight, it is also the one that climbs the slopes the best. The manufacturer announces that you can upload slopes up to 13º incline. Luckily, it also has anti-tip wheels to tackle them safely. Its low weight and folding system also takes a slight toll on its load capacity, which is a maximum of 100 kg.
Tips when buying an electric wheelchair
This type of transport for the elderly or disabled usually requires some level of customization. That is why it is better that even if you buy them online, you contact the seller to explain the specific characteristics you need. Indicate the degree of disability or reduced mobility that the person who is going to use it has. This way he will be able to advise you properly.
For example, the control knob can often be configured right or left handed and even so that I can control someone else, like a nurse. It can also be placed to be able to be used with the mouth or any need that the user has. Do not skimp on modifications so that the chair fulfills its function in the best possible way.
How to take care of batteries
As you have seen in the description of these chairs, each one has different autonomy and benefits. But, if you want these stay as they are for as long as possible, it is advisable to take care of them by following the following tips:
- Charge them longer than indicated the first time you use them. IF, for example, they take 8 hours to charge, it doesn't hurt that you let them charge about 12 when you go to release them.
- Always charge them to the maximum. This should be done regardless of the type of batteries. Although lithium batteries are better able to withstand partial recharges, it is not advisable to leave them halfway all the time.
- Never download them completely. As with mobile, reaching 0% is not good. That is why they notify you when there is more or less 15% of the plugs left. Do the same with the wheelchair.
- Don't leave them unused for too long. Recharge and use them at least once a month, otherwise the battery will degrade until it is useless.
Solid or pneumatic wheels
You have already seen it in the Power Chair electric wheelchair, you can use solid wheels (a rubber block) or pneumatic (filled with air like those of a bicycle). Each has its advantages and disadvantages. The primera it's more resistant and cannot be punctured. In other words, even if they are pricked, nothing happens to them.
La second yes it can deflate if something goes through them, but in return better absorb irregularities in the pavement. This second option is interesting if you are driving fast on certain sidewalks or terrain, but it will force you to be more careful where you go.
Rear-wheel drive, the best option?
The electric wheelchairs that we have presented to you all have rear wheel drive. That is why they are the most similar to a manual wheelchair in terms of handling. In addition, the fact that it is the rear wheels that push allows a greater and more intuitive maneuverability than for example the front-wheel drive.
On the other hand, this type of traction maintains a good ability to go over slightly uneven terrain. It is true that in this they are worse than front-wheel drive, because those have the big wheel in front. But they are better for example than the central drive (six wheels).
