Mobility scooters can be complex, and understanding the different types of battery, the compatibility and the power options available can be confusing. If you’ve recently bought a new mobility scooter or you’re new to using them entirely, you may be wondering what to do if your scooter needs a new battery – in this guide, we’ll explain the types of batteries you can choose from and what the best replacement is for your scooter.
Scooter batteries are usually fitted in pairs, so it’s recommended that you fit batteries in this way if you’re replacing them. All scooter batteries are 12 volts to provide a 24-volt output. So, you may see the power listed as 12-volt 35Ah, as an example. The most important factor to check is the physical size of the battery, as the amp hour rate can vary between manufacturers.
You also need to consider whether you need a GEL or AGM battery or Absorbed Glass Mat battery. The latter is sometimes referred to as a sealed lead acid battery. The key difference between these two types of battery is the longevity – the battery is the only source of power you’ll have in your scooter, so they are designed to work differently to other batteries.
Scooter batteries provide a consistent flow of power for a longer period of time, before being recharged fully, which is known as a cycle. Although it’s worth remembering that mobility scooter batteries last longer if you charge them before they run all the way down. You shouldn’t leave dead batteries for longer than a day before recharging them.
There are four main types of batteries for scooters:
It’s important to charge your scooter batteries properly – you will be able to see how much power your scooter has left by checking the battery gauge on your scooter’s control panel. It’s a good idea to get into the habit of checking this each time you set off so you can ensure the batteries are fully charged before you start driving.
Many models can be charged without needing to remove the batteries, for added convenience. However, bear in mind that when you’re charging, you’ll need ample space to charge them and easy access to a power socket. You should also take the increase in your electricity bill into account when you’re budgeting for a scooter, as you will need to charge the batteries regularly.
Charging the batteries is easy to do – here’s a step-by-step guide: