Power
Wheelchair FAQ

It is extremely important that all sizing, seating and drive configurations are considered for your power chair user to achieve maximum benefit.  

Please reach out to us to schedule a free in-home assessment, or to speak with a knowledgeable customer service representative. 

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Getting Started

Customer questions about our power wheelchairs.

There are four main types of Power Wheelchairs in which Cental HME has extensive expertise:

  • Consumer power chairs
  • Portable power chairs 
  • Rehabilitation power chairs
  • Bariatric and high weight capacity power chairs

Many of the above models are available with multiple drive options, including front wheel, mid wheel and rear wheel drive. 

Each person is unique!  However, the following questions should be explored:

  • Where will I primarily use the chair?
  • Will I use it outdoors? If so, what type of terrain might I cover?
  • Am I left or right handed?
  • How much does the user weigh?
  • How tall is the user?
  • Will I need to transport the chair?
  • Does the user use public transportation?
  • Does the user have any special needs?
  • Does the user have skin problems?
  • Does the user have posture correction needs?

This is a few of the items to consider when purchasing a power wheelchair. Please be assured that Central HME is here to help you with this process!

Front Wheel Drive chairs are powered by the front wheels of the Chair.  You get a sensation of being “pulled” by the chair. This system is ideal for rugged terrain, going thru snow, and climbing curbs.

Mid Wheel Drive chairs have the drive wheels positioned in the middle of the chair, directly below the user. Mid Wheel Drive offers the most compact footprint and tightest turning radius. This chair is ideal for indoor use as well as outdoor use. 

Rear Wheel Drive chairs are powered from the back of the chair. The drive system feels very intuitive.  At one time, most power chairs were Rear Wheel Drive.

Central HME recommends starting with a Mid Wheel Drive Power Chair. It is very easy to operate for most people!

Yes. These essential products are included in your purchase price!

Yes, and this is very important! Here are some tips:

  1. If you use your battery powered mobility product every day, we recommend you fully charge your product when you go to bed. It normally takes 6 to 8 hours to fully charge your battery. 
  2. Never partially charge your battery. If you don’t use your mobility product every day, you may charge less often. If you are not going to use your product for an extended length of time, (over 30 days) we recommend fully charging the batteries and then disconnecting and storing in a dry place protected from temperature extremes. 
  3. Do not allow your batteries to become fully depleted. This will ruin your batteries.  Check with your owner’s manual or contact Central HME for additional details on this important topic.

Many factors come into play when determining how far a mobility device can go on a single charge. Conditions such as user weight, battery condition, temperature and terrain traveled are all items to consider.  

Each mobility device is different. But as a rule, you can expect around 10 miles per charge. Consult your owner’s manual or contact Central HME for details!

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