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What are our key tips on looking after your batteries?

Here are the key tips for looking after mobility equipment batteries (most use sealed lead-acid or lithium batteries):

Charging

  • Charge regularly — don’t wait until the battery is fully depleted. Top up after each use.
  • Use the manufacturer’s charger — third-party chargers can damage batteries or create safety risks.
  • Charge overnight or for the recommended duration — don’t interrupt charging cycles unnecessarily.
  • Don’t overcharge — if your charger isn’t “smart” (auto-shutoff), unplug once fully charged.
  • Change tactics – let your batteries run lowevery two months as this can rejuvenate them for a while.

Daily Use

  • Avoid completely draining the battery — deep discharges shorten lifespan, especially for lead-acid batteries.
  • Warm up before heavy use — batteries perform better at operating temperature.
  • Distribute load sensibly — avoid excessive inclines or carrying very heavy loads unnecessarily.
  • Transportation– Most gel and sealed batteries can be transported by plane and your supplier can provide an IATA Certificate to prove this, if required.

Storage

  • Store at partial charge (around 50–80%) if not using for a while — not full, not empty.
  • Keep in a cool, dry place — heat is a battery’s worst enemy. Avoid garages in summer or direct sunlight.
  • If storing long-term, check the charge every 4–6 weeks and top up if needed.
  • Always dispose of any batteries carefully– through a reputable source.

Temperature

  • Avoid extreme cold — batteries lose significant capacity in cold weather. Bring equipment indoors when not in use.
  • Never charge a frozen battery — bring it to room temperature first.

Maintenance

  • Keep terminals clean — a little corrosion on terminals increases resistance and reduces performance. Wipe with a dry cloth.
  • Check connections periodically for looseness or damage.
  • Monitor range — a noticeable drop in how far you can travel on a charge is a sign the battery is ageing and may need replacing.

Lifespan Expectations

  • Lead-acid batteries: typically 1–2 years with good care.
  • Lithium batteries: typically 3–5 years.

When it’s time to replace, always use batteries specified by the manufacturer — fitting the wrong type or capacity can damage the equipment or be unsafe.

It is important that a battery is fitted correctly so always best to use a reputable properly trained and insured mobility specialist.