Collaborative Post
Wheelchairs require regular maintenance checks and professional service checks to operate at their optimum performance. Mobility scooters and wheelchairs can provide individuals who independence and freedom. A wheelchair needs to be comfortable, reliable and safe to use.
Carrying out small weekly maintenance checks can significantly diminish your risk of an expensive repair bill later down the line. You should be especially vigilant with maintenance checks during the cold winter months. Hire an authorised supplier to do an annual check on your mobility scooter or wheelchair and make sure they are familiar with the exact model. Every wheelchair has a different set of mechanics and individual parts.
Here are a few checks you can do to keep your wheelchair in the best shape possible.
Wheels
Check your tyres for wear and tear, especially if you ride over rough surfaces on a weekly basis. Uneven pavements can cut, deflate and puncture your wheels.
Consider investing in a mobility car for longer journeys that could damage your mobility scooter or chair’s wheels.
Check your chair’s tyre pressure every month, and make sure your wheels are correctly aligned. In colder conditions, you must keep an eye on the tread of your tyres. A worn-down tread can make you more liable to skidding on ice and injuring yourself.
If you are using the mobility scooter every day, you will probably notice any issues with the breaks. Breaks can be impaired by low tyre pressure, wet conditions and incorrectly adjusted parts.
Mud and dirt
Over time mud and dirt can collect on your scooter. It is essential to wash and wipe down your chair weekly, especially if you have been somewhere particularly muggy. Do not store your wheelchair when it’s wet and dirty.
When you are cleaning the chair, make sure to inspect the equipment as well. Run a soft, damp cloth over the upholstery and muddy areas.
Use lubrication where needed
It’s normal for parts of your wheelchair to become a little stiff over time. Use a small amount of oil or special lubricant sprayto avoid a creaking chair. All the parts should pivot and fold as normal.
Check the upholstery
If you use the chair frequently, the upholstery is likely to experience a little wear and tear. Cleaning and correct maintenance can help to keep your seat in top condition. Replace any damaged upholstery that has begun to crack and tear. If you rely on a seat cushion for support, make sure the padding is still in good condition.
Make sure your wheelchair or mobility scooter is comfortable and safe to use at all times. Consider keeping a list of emergency contacts on your phone in case your wheelchair needs immediate repair.
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