When you search online for “How long do mobility scooter batteries last,” you’ll get varied answers based on different battery types and models.
The key thing to note is that each mobility scooter battery is unique. And so are rider dynamics.
While one scooter battery may serve occasional riders for years, the same battery type would barely last six months for frequent scooter users. Therefore, it’s best to pick a battery depending on a scooter’s rated performance and your overall needs.
Read below to understand the lifespan of mobility scooter batteries and what affects their average longevity.
Unpacking the Lifespan of Mobility Scooter Batteries
Battery life is a top consideration when shopping for mobility scooters. You deserve a battery that can power your three- or four-wheel scooter for a maximum duration before subjecting you to costly repairs or replacements.
The good news is that there’s an abundance of dealerships where you can find a durable mobility scooter battery. A little research is all you need to hunker down on long-lasting scooter battery models.
However, even the most durable mobility scooter battery will degrade over time. So, it’s important to understand the battery’s average lifespan before purchasing it. And that brings us back to the question – how long do mobility scooter batteries last?
Mobility scooter batteries typically last eighteen to twenty-four months with proper care and maintenance. Depending on the conditions, some batteries can power your scooter for up to five years, while others may require replacing within a few months.
Factors Determining the Durability of Mobility Scooter Batteries
1. Lithium-ion versus Lead-acid Batteries
Mobility scooter batteries can be lithium-ion or lead-acid. Each option comes with unique perks and drawbacks.
Lithium-acid batteries can last up to three or four times longer than their lead-acid counterparts.
Lithium-ion scooter batteries also tend to be up to 95% efficient, whereas lead-acid batteries are usually 80-85% efficient. Efficiency is determined primarily by charging time and charge duration.
Meanwhile, lead-acid batteries are remarkably resilient and can withstand frequent electrical malfunctions. They can also handle more charge cycles without overheating.
2. AGM versus GEL Batteries
Lead-acid batteries may further be classified into AGM/SLA or GEL.
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or SLA (Sealed Lead Acid) batteries utilize fiberglass that’s soaked in electrolytes and placed between the battery plates. The fiberglass creates a buffer between electrolytes, preventing acid spillage.
Conversely, GEL batteries prevent the acid in mobility scooter batteries from spilling by converting it into a thick liquid using silica.
GEL batteries discharge slower and produce more cycles than AGM batteries, making them excellent for daily riders. However, the gel component is fragile and can be burned during overcharge or overuse.
3. Driving Conditions
Inappropriate Tire Pressure
Low tire pressure not only increases the risks of punctures and blowouts. It can also reduce your mobility scooter’s battery life and overall efficiency.
Therefore, always stick to the recommended tire pressure before embarking on any trip.
Most mobility scooter tires operate optimally at 25 pounds per square inch (psi) and 30 psi for front and rear tires, respectively.
Blistering Speeds
Speeding is a leading cause of mobility scooter accidents in the United States. Besides, high-speed rides can wreak havoc on your scooter battery.
Note that speeding requires more amps. A higher amp draw can shorten your battery life and efficiency over time.
Unsteady Speed
Unsteady riding speed can be as detrimental to your mobility scooter’s battery life as high-speed rides.
Hard accelerations, hard braking, and stop-starting a mobility scooter can all damage its battery and wear down the brake pads.
4. Environmental Factors
Temperature
Extreme heat and cold can interfere with the movement of ions in your mobility scooter’s battery, reducing its performance and lifespan.
Winter months are notably harder on mobility scooter batteries. The colder conditions slow down the chemical reactions required for the batteries to properly charge and discharge.
Humidity
Corrosion is perhaps the biggest moisture-related concern with mobility scooter batteries.
Rust on the terminals can prevent your scooter batteries from charging properly. It also impedes the transfer of power to the scooter’s other electrical components.
Moreover, humid conditions may cause moisture to seep into the battery’s internal components. The water droplets can dilute the battery’s chemicals and degrade it further.
5. Charging Habits
How you charge your mobility scooter battery impacts its durability.
First, stick to the recommended chargers. Other chargers may undercharge or overcharge the battery, reducing its efficiency.
Besides, recharge your scooter’s battery to full capacity after each trip.
Most mobility scooter batteries typically reach full charge in 8 – 10 hours. Consider a smart charger, which automatically shuts off the charging system when the battery reaches full charge.
Experts also advise against letting your mobility scooter battery discharge fully. Instead, recharge the battery with about 25% charge remaining.
Lastly, recharge your mobility scooter to about 40% and clean the battery thoroughly before storing it. Dirt, oil, and grime can all reduce the battery’s performance and lifespan.
Wrap Up
Mobility scooter batteries have an average lifespan of 18 – 24 months. But as you may have gathered, this duration isn’t cast in stone.
Numerous aspects will determine the actual durability of your scooter battery. Depending on the factors, your mobility scooter battery may outlive its original lifespan or degrade much sooner.
The trick is to research widely and choose a top-rated battery from a trusted mobility scooter dealer. Then, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines to keep your battery at peak performance.
Founder Dinis Guarda
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