Routine care can help keep a power wheelchair clean, dependable, and ready for everyday use. Maintenance needs vary by manufacturer and model, so always begin with the owner’s manual and follow its inspection, charging, cleaning, and service instructions.
Daily and weekly checks
Before using the chair, take a moment to look for anything unusual. A quick visual check can identify concerns before they become larger problems.
- Confirm that the joystick and controls respond normally.
- Check the battery indicator before leaving home.
- Look for visible damage, loose components, or unusual wear.
- Make sure armrests, footrests, seating components, and positioning supports are secure.
- Inspect tires and casters for damage, debris, excessive wear, or low pressure when pneumatic tires are used.
- Listen for new noises and notice any change in steering, braking, vibration, or performance.
Charge and care for the batteries correctly
Use only the charger specified or approved for your wheelchair and battery system. Follow the manufacturer’s charging schedule, connect the charger in a dry and ventilated area, and inspect the charger and accessible cables for visible damage before use.
Avoid opening battery housings or attempting electrical repairs yourself. Battery type, charging requirements, and storage procedures differ between chairs. If the battery range drops unexpectedly, the chair will not charge, or the charger becomes damaged or unusually hot, stop and contact an authorized service professional.
Keep the chair clean and dry
Wipe exposed surfaces using the cleaning method recommended in the owner’s manual. Remove dust and debris from accessible areas around the seat, frame, wheels, and casters. Do not spray water directly onto controls, motors, charging ports, or electrical components, and do not use cleaners that the manufacturer has not approved.
If the chair becomes wet, follow the manufacturer’s drying and inspection instructions before operating or charging it.
Check seating and positioning components
Inspect cushions, covers, belts, lateral supports, headrests, armrests, and foot supports for wear or damage. Confirm that removable components are installed correctly. Seating changes can affect comfort, posture, pressure management, and safe operation, so consult an appropriate healthcare or seating professional before changing prescribed positioning equipment.
Store and transport the chair safely
Store the wheelchair in a dry location within the temperature range specified by the manufacturer. For extended storage, follow the manual’s battery-charging instructions. When transporting the chair, use only approved securement points and follow the vehicle, lift, ramp, and wheelchair manufacturers’ instructions.
When to stop using the wheelchair
Do not continue using the chair if you notice unreliable controls, braking problems, exposed wiring, smoke, unusual heat or odor, severe tire damage, structural damage, or a major change in stability or performance. Turn the chair off when it is safe to do so and contact an authorized service professional.
Information to have ready when requesting help
- Wheelchair manufacturer and model
- Serial number
- Battery and charger information
- A description of the issue and when it began
- Any error code shown by the controls
- Photos of visible damage, when safe to obtain
- The replacement-part number, if known
Contact Suncoast Medical Supply with these details if you need help identifying available maintenance supplies, replacement components, or appropriate next steps. Call us at 727-821-7015, if further assistance is needed.
Important: This guide provides general educational information. It does not replace the wheelchair manufacturer’s instructions or service by a qualified technician. Do not modify safety systems or attempt internal electrical, battery, motor, controller, or brake repairs unless specifically authorized and trained to do so.
