• You can increase the life and performance of your wheelchair batteries by adhering to the manufacturer's guidelines for care and charging. The larger the battery, the longer the wheelchair can operate. Consider your lifestyle needs to determine what battery is most suitable.
  
  

Types of Batteries

• A wheelchair battery is deep cycle, meaning you need to charge it daily. Dry gel batteries do not need water added, don't corrode and can't spill. Although more expensive, this battery is approved for air travel and has a longer life cycle. Wet Nickel-cadmium batteries have a life cycle of up to 50 years, but are not recommended for wheelchair use. AGM batteries (absorber glass mat) are ideal for your wheelchair. They have much higher power efficiency than gel cell and wet lead acid batteries and are approved for airline travel, but they're expensive. The U1 gel battery is used as a health care industry benchmark.
  
  

Top Ten Manufacturers

• Top brand name manufacturers of wheel chair batteries include Mobility, Sears, Braun, Invacare and Vector Mobility, Panasonic, Universal, Toyo, Marathon and Yuasa.
  
  

Tips for Longer Battery Life

• When plugging in the charger make sure the indicator light registers. Use your wheelchair only when it is fully charged. Incomplete charging will weaken batteries. If you properly care for your battery, it can last up to 18 months. Look for discount wheelchair batteries when you are ready for a replacement. Different types of terrain, such as carpet or rough surfaces, will drain your battery. Exposure to cold temperatures for long periods will reduce your battery's capacity.