If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your mobility scooter’s batteries until they start failing. And even then, it’s not always obvious when you should replace them.
This blog post will explain when to replace your mobility scooter’s batteries and offer some tips for prolonging their lifespan. So read on to learn more!
Most manufacturers suggest replacing your batteries every 500 charging cycles. So depending on how often you use your scooter, you may need to replace them anywhere from every 6 months to every 3 years.
However, you can do a few things to prolong your battery’s lifespan. First, always keep them fully charged and don’t let them run too low.
Also, avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or in extreme heat or cold. And finally, discharge and recharge the battery occasionally (once a month is usually enough). Following these tips should help you get the most out of your batteries!
Mobility Scooter Battery Construction
Most mobility scooters will have two different types of batteries: a “starter” battery and an “operating” or “housekeeping” battery. Starter batteries are used to turn the electric motor that propels the scooter into motion. Operating batteries are used to power other electrical components on your scooters, such as lights, horns, and the control panel.
The batteries work together to power your scooter. If one fails or isn’t working properly, it can cause problems with your other battery. So even though you may think that replacing just one battery will solve all of your problems – it won’t!
For best results, you should replace both batteries at the same time.
Signs That Your Mobility Scooter Batteries Need Replacing Generally
Three different signs indicate your scooter’s batteries need to be replaced. They have gone through their maximum life expectancy, can no longer hold a full charge, or are leaking acid.
The specific timeframe for when your batteries “expire” will depend on the quality of your individual scooter, its intended use, and how often you ride it.
For example, if you have a large scooter used quite frequently but only has cheap batteries installed, they may expire after just 6 months of use! On the flip side, if you have a small scooter that is only used occasionally, then your batteries may last up to two years or more.
Replace Mobility Scooter Batteries If They Have Reached Their Expiration Date
For most people, the best way to determine if your batteries need to be replaced is by performing regular inspections.
Every time you charge your scooter’s batteries, it’s crucial that you inspect them for leaks or damage. If you notice any abnormalities, I would recommend replacing them even if they aren’t expired! This way, you can prevent further problems down the line and ensure that your scooter is always running at full power.
As a general rule of thumb, you should replace your batteries before they expire if:
- Your scooter’s motor doesn’t turn on when you engage the throttle.
- You notice leaks or damage to your batteries.
Suppose you want to avoid replacing your batteries too often. In that case, I recommend checking them every 6 months to see if they need to be replaced.
Replace Mobility Scooter Batteries If They Are Not Holding A Full Charge
Another way to determine if your batteries need replacing is by seeing how long they last after being charged. If you charge your scooter’s batteries and then don’t use them for a full day, and the battery life doesn’t last more than 3 days (24 hours), then it’s time to replace them.
If you notice that your scooter’s batteries don’t seem to be holding their power for very long after a charge. Or, if they can no longer last through an entire day of use on a single charge, then it’s best to replace them as soon as possible. This is because if your batteries can’t hold a charge properly, then it will be hard for you to use your scooter, and you could even put yourself at risk of getting hurt!
So before going out one day and finding that your scooter has wholly died on you – check these signs and replace your batteries before something terrible happens!
Replace Mobility Scooter Batteries If They Have Leaked Acid
Suppose you’ve been keeping up with regular inspections and maintenance for your scooter’s batteries. In that case, you shouldn’t end up with acid leaking to the outside of them. However, if there is any indication that they have leaked, it’s time to replace them!
Although mobility scooter batteries are generally potent, they can leak acid if exposed to high temperatures. For example, live in sub-zero winters or even just high summer temperatures. Your batteries could be at risk of leaking!
Another way that your scooter batteries may be exposed to high temperatures is if one of the vents gets blocked, which could cause overheating.
Suppose you notice that your scooter battery has leaked or started smoking. In that case, it’s definitely time to replace the battery as soon as possible! This will prevent any more acid from leaking out and keep you safe.
Conclusion
So are you ready to get out there and ride your mobility scooter? If your batteries are more than 4 years old, then it may be the perfect time for a replacement!
If you want some ideas on what kind of scooters or batteries you should go for, check out this post here. Or, if you need any advice about anything mobility scooter-related, feel free to leave a comment or contact me, and I’ll be happy to help!
I hope you found this article helpful and that it has helped you learn more about when to replace your batteries.
