Buying an Electric Wheelchair? Top 11 Questions Answered by Our Experts

Regaining your freedom of movement is a powerful feeling. If mobility challenges have kept you from living life to the fullest, an electric wheelchair—also known as a power chair—can be a life-changing solution. It represents a new chapter of independence and possibility.

However, investing in a power chair is a big decision, and it’s natural to have questions. To help you navigate this journey with confidence, our mobility experts have compiled answers to the eleven most common questions we hear from customers. Let’s dive in and find the right path to your new mobility.

1. Finding Your Perfect Fit: Why One Size Doesn't Fit All

A frequent first question is whether electric wheelchairs are universal. The answer is a definitive no. A proper fit is crucial not just for comfort, but for your health and safety. Power chairs are highly customizable to support different body types, weights, and medical needs. Key adjustments include seat width, depth, back height, and armrest position. Using a chair that’s too large or too small can lead to poor posture, pressure sores, and difficulty maneuvering. Our goal is to find the chair that feels like it was built just for you.

2. Can I Test Drive an Electric Wheelchair Before Buying?

Absolutely. We believe that you should feel completely confident in your choice. Making a significant purchase like this without trying it first is a major concern for many. That’s why reputable dealers and some manufacturers offer trial periods or in-home demonstrations. This allows you to experience how the chair handles in your own environment—navigating your hallways, doorways, and local sidewalks. This hands-on experience is the best way to ensure the model you’re considering truly meets your daily needs.

(At our company, we partner with leading brands to offer flexible trial options. Contact us to learn more.)

3. Indoor vs. Outdoor Models: What's the Real Difference?

Electric wheelchairs are generally designed for specific environments.

• Indoor Chairs: These are built with a smaller frame and a tighter turning radius, making them perfect for navigating furniture, narrow corridors, and tight corners inside a home. They typically have smaller, non-marking wheels.
• Outdoor Chairs: These are more robust. They feature larger, more durable tires with better tread for handling uneven terrain like grass, gravel, and cracked pavement. They also have more powerful motors, advanced suspension systems to absorb shock, and longer-lasting batteries to cover greater distances.

While some "hybrid" models perform well in both settings, understanding where you'll spend most of your time is key to choosing the right one.

4. Understanding the Cost of an Electric Wheelchair

The price of an electric wheelchair can range significantly, typically from around $1,500 for a basic, portable model to over $15,000 for a highly customized, heavy-duty chair. What causes this wide range?

• Basic Models ($1,500 - $4,000): Good for simple indoor use, with standard seating and limited range.
• Mid-Range Models ($4,000 - $9,000): Offer better suspension, more comfortable seating options, longer battery life, and suitability for some outdoor use.
• Advanced/Complex Rehab Models ($9,000+): Feature power seating functions (like tilt, recline, and seat elevation), advanced suspension, and are custom-built to the user's specific medical requirements.

5. How Far Can I Go? A Look at Battery Life and Range

Battery performance is a top concern. On average, you can expect a power chair to travel between 10 to 20 miles (16-32 km) on a single charge. However, this range is affected by several factors:

• User Weight: Heavier loads require more power.
• Terrain: Driving uphill or on rough surfaces consumes more battery.
• Battery Type & Age: Lithium-ion batteries are lighter and often last longer than traditional sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries. All batteries lose capacity over time.
• Tire Pressure: Properly inflated tires reduce drag and improve efficiency.

6. What Kind of Maintenance is Required?

To keep your electric wheelchair running safely and reliably, regular maintenance is essential. Here’s a simple checklist:

• Daily/Weekly: Wipe down the frame and upholstery. Check the joystick for responsiveness.
• Monthly: Check tire pressure. Inspect for any loose nuts or bolts. Clean battery terminals to ensure a good connection.
• Annually: Schedule a professional service. A technician will inspect the motors, batteries, wiring, and overall frame integrity.

Preventative care is the best way to avoid unexpected repairs and extend the life of your chair.

7. What Do Electric Wheelchair Warranties Cover?

Warranties provide peace of mind and are a critical part of your purchase. Most manufacturers offer a "limited warranty" that is broken down by component. A typical structure looks like this:

• Frame: Often covered for 5 years or even a lifetime.
• Electronics (Motor, Joystick): Typically covered for 1-2 years.
• Batteries: Usually covered for 6 months to 1 year.

Always read the warranty details for the specific model you're interested in, as coverage can vary significantly between brands. You can usually find this information on the product page or by asking one of our experts.

8. Should I Choose a Basic or an Advanced Power Chair?

The right choice depends entirely on your needs.

• A Basic Electric Wheelchair is an excellent choice if you need simple mobility assistance, primarily indoors or on smooth surfaces, and don't require specialized seating support. They are straightforward to operate and more budget-friendly.
• An Advanced Electric Wheelchair is necessary if you have complex medical needs. These chairs offer features like power tilt (to relieve pressure), recline, leg elevation, and seat elevation (to reach high shelves). They are essential for users who spend most of their day in the chair and require postural support.

9. How Do I Find the Right Size Wheelchair?

Proper sizing is non-negotiable. The three most critical measurements are:

1. Seat Width: Measure the widest point of the hips or thighs while seated and add 1-2 inches. This prevents rubbing but ensures you’re snug and supported.
2. Seat Depth: Measure from the back of the pelvis to the back of the knee and subtract 2 inches. This prevents pressure on the back of the knees and encourages proper posture.
3. Back Height: This depends on your level of trunk support needed.

While you can take these measurements at home, we strongly recommend a professional fitting to ensure all aspects of the chair are tailored to you.

10. What Are the Most Helpful Features to Look For?

Beyond the basics, certain features can dramatically improve your daily life:

• Turning Radius: A smaller turning radius is crucial for indoor maneuverability.
• Suspension System: Good suspension provides a smoother, more comfortable ride, especially outdoors.
• Seat Elevator: This feature raises the entire seat, allowing you to be at eye-level in conversations and reach countertops or cabinets.
• Portability: If you travel frequently, look for models that are lightweight or can be easily disassembled to fit in a car trunk.

11. How Can I Pay for My Electric Wheelchair?

The cost can seem high, but there are several ways to fund your purchase:

• Insurance: Many private insurance plans, as well as Medicare and Medicaid, may cover a portion or all of the cost if it's deemed a "medical necessity." This requires a prescription and documentation from your doctor.
• Financing: Many providers offer payment plans that allow you to spread the cost over several months. We partner with services like Klarna to offer flexible, low-interest financing.
• Grants & Non-Profits: Organizations dedicated to specific disabilities or conditions often provide grants to help with the cost of mobility equipment.
• Veterans Affairs (VA): Eligible veterans can receive mobility devices through their VA benefits.