Just like everything else, your wheelchair needs regular care to stay in good shape. How often you maintain it depends on the type of wheelchair you have and how much you use it.
The most important thing to watch is the tires. Check the tire pressure every month to make sure your wheelchair rolls smoothly. Also, keep an eye on the brakes and make sure they’re in good condition.
Remember, if something doesn’t seem right or sounds strange, it’s probably a sign that something needs attention. Don’t wait; get it checked out sooner rather than later.
While you can do basic cleaning and checks often, it’s a good idea to take your wheelchair in for a thorough maintenance checkup every year. This helps ensure it stays in top condition.
Manual wheelchair maintenance tips
- Regularly check your brakes to ensure they’re in good working condition.
- Monitor your tire pressure at least once a month to maintain smooth mobility.
- Inspect for any loose screws or bolts and ensure all parts are secure.
- Clean your wheelchair with a mild detergent, avoiding upholstery and exposed bearing points. Rinse thoroughly before using. Pay extra attention to cleaning the backrest or cushion when needed.
- If you notice creaking sounds or something feels off, schedule a check-up at a service centre.
- Protect your wheelchair from the elements with a weather-proof cover if it will be outside for an extended period and try to keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent damage.
Electric wheelchair maintenance tips
- Listen for unusual sounds; they can be the first sign of a problem. Don’t wait for them to worsen. As soon as you hear something unusual, have it checked out promptly.
- Ensure that all bolts and connections are securely fastened. If you’re uncertain about any part, seek professional assistance.
- If you encounter issues, consider returning to the same place where you bought your wheelchair. This can help ensure you get the correct fittings and components.
- For electric wheelchairs, always keep the batteries charged to avoid unexpected power loss.
- To keep your wheelchair in top shape, regular cleaning is essential. Use a damp cloth to wipe it down, making sure it’s completely dry before using it. If you encounter stubborn stains, you can use a mild detergent, but be conservative with its use.
- Additionally, it’s wise to avoid exposing your wheelchair to wet weather whenever possible. Moisture can potentially harm specific wheelchair components.
Understanding your wheelchair better will enable you to maintain and clean it on your own. Generally, wheelchairs are low maintenance, requiring little more than occasional wipes to keep them in good working order. However, some issues, like malfunctioning brakes, may require professional attention. If you notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to have it checked by an expert.
A disability should not limit your possibilities
At Equip U, we are committed to promoting independence and mobility for people with disabilities and we have some great options for mobility aids in Townsville. Unlike other retailers, we don’t just offer standard products like mobility scooters and accessories. We also provide in-home trials to residents of Queensland, as well as maintenance and servicing for any mobility products. Our NDIS registration allows us to provide funding options so that access to these services isn’t limited based on where you live. Our goal is to work closely with you to bring your vision for improved mobility to life.
If you have any questions about the types of products we offer or how they work, or if you would like to schedule a free at-home product demonstration, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.
