With a little TLC and regular maintenance, your power scooter will provide you with years of worry-free performance. Here are five simple ways you can help keep your scooter running smoothly:
1) Take care of the batteries
Your power scooter batteries will deliver optimal performance and reliability with the proper care. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended battery maintenance outlined in your scooter manual — some batteries should be continuously topped up. In contrast, others should only be charged when the charge levels drop below a certain level. All batteries will need to be replaced at some point, so if your scooter doesn’t perform as it should, it’s time to have the batteries tested.
Keep in mind that extreme temperatures can decrease the lifespan of your scooter batteries and, in some cases, even ruin the batteries. Try to park your scooter in a dry, temperature-controlled space rather than outside on a deck, patio, or parking garage.
2) Keep the tiler dry
Protect the electronic controls from rain, snow, and dirt if you use your mobility scooter outside or transport it on an exterior vehicle lift. This means covering up the handles, throttle levers, and charging port with a tiler cover specially made for your particular make and model. You can slip a clear plastic bag over the tiler in a pinch and secure it with elastic bands or tape.
3) Check your tires
Inspect your tires daily, looking for cracks, punctures, and air loss. Use a handheld air pressure gauge to ensure your tires are inflated to the PSI recommended in your owner’s manual or stamped on the side of each tire. If you notice a damaged or deflated tire, stop using your scooter until you can have the faulty tire replaced.
And if your power scooter has solid tires, you won’t need to worry about adding air, but you should still check for cracks or wobbling that can be a sign of a worn wheel bearing.
4) Wipe down your scooter
Take the time to dust off all the exposed parts on your scooter with a clean, dry cloth to keep your device in like-new condition. Not only does this help maintain the resale value of your mobility scooter, but it helps to protect the finish and electrical components against premature wear.
When cleaning your scooter, never use harsh products, and always keep any moisture from electrical components.
5) Have regular tune-ups done by a certified mobility technician
Today’s power scooters are faster, lighter, and more complex than ever. We have extensive experience in maintaining and repairing all makes and models, and we stock a wide assortment of replacement batteries, circuit boards, and other parts. Having your machine checked by our Certified Mobility Technician will give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your mobility device is tuned up and ready to roll.
At Copper Star Home Medical, you can bring your scooter anytime for a service appointment or take advantage of our Phoenix-wide mobile mobility scooter repair service.