Page 70 - Norco Patient Orientation Handbook e-book

(AH).The bigger the battery the greater the capacity (amp hours). Some batteries with the same group
(size) may differ slightly in capacity.
♦ The owner’s manual that was included with your power wheelchair or scooter will identify the size(s) of
batteries that are recommended. Some models come standard with lower capacity batteries but may be
able to accept larger size and/or capacity. If you cannot identify the required battery contact your local
Norco Branch and they will assist you in finding the correct battery.

BATTERY CHARGING AND STORAGE

*In the past there was the issue of batteries having a “memory”. The resolution was to fully discharge the
battery. Today’s battery technology has eliminated this issue. Deep Cycle batteries DO NOT have a memory
and fully discharging will lead to early battery failure. Also batteries will not discharge when stored on
concrete.

♦ Charging the batteries is by far the most important procedure to maintaining the battery life. The
frequency in which you charge the batteries is going to depend on use. Although it is important to use
the batteries to a certain extent before charging them, it is very detrimental to the batteries if they get too
low. All power wheelchair and scooters have some form of battery meter. A good rule of thumb is to
charge the batteries before the indicator moves into the red.
♦ The charger can either be separate from (off-board) or installed (on-board) on your power wheelchair or
scooter, see your owner’s manual.
♦ Charges can either be manual or fully automatic. Manual chargers require supervision so that the
batteries do not become permanently damaged due to being overcharged. Automatic chargers monitor
the charge in the batteries and automatically shut off when fully charged.
♦ Chargers should not be left plugged into the battery for more than 24 hours. It can permanently damage
the battery or cause incidents like battery acid leaks or fire.
♦ Gel Cell and AGM batteries also charge at a lower voltage than sealed liquid or wet lead-acid batteries
making it critical to use only appropriate chargers. When attempting to recharge a Gel Cell battery, be
sure that the charger is capable of recharging Gel Cell batteries, some older model chargers may not be
Gel Cell compatible. The chargers supplied with your power wheelchair or scooter will be compatible to
the batteries that were originally installed.
♦ If the batteries are going to be stored for a long period of time (more than a month), the batteries must be
fully charged before storage, batteries will naturally discharge over time. Battery connections or power
cables should be disconnected. If the batteries are in storage for more than a month it is a good practice
to check the batteries every month. You can have the batteries tested at your local Norco Branch or
battery dealers. If the batteries are not tested and recharged (as necessary) during storage, they may
become damaged due to extensive discharge.
♦ Gel Cell and AGM batteries can be left in temperatures below 32 degrees F. Gel Cell batteries contain
chemicals that do not freeze and AGM batteries do not contain any liquid. However, batteries should
not be stored below 32 degrees F.
♦ Storing batteries in a cool dry place will slow the rate of self-discharge.
♦ AGM batteries will store for longer periods of time vs. Gel Cell and other deep cycle batteries.
♦ Keeping the batteries clean helps sustain the life of the batteries. If a battery has a layer of debris (dirt,
dust, grime, etc…) on top of the battery, it may become conductive (depending on the debris).
Conductive debris can cause the battery to self-discharge at a much higher rate that normal. If the debris
is not conductive it will not allow proper airflow to cool the battery. Most batteries are manufactured to
operate at 80 degrees F. When the temperature is higher than 80 degrees F it will reduce the life of the
battery.
♦ Whenever possible, turn off the charger and chair when plugging or unplugging the charger from the
chair.