Sealed Gel Batteries, What You Need To Know …
All mobility batteries are not created equal
Do you know the difference between an SLI (starting light and ignition) versus a “deep-cycle” battery? What about a “wet lead-acid” versus a sealed Gel or AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) battery?
In virtually all wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility applications a DEEP CYCLE sealed gel or AGM battery is best, and here’s why:
SLI’s are automotive- type “starting” batteries designed to provide rapid bursts of power. While they can be recharged quickly via alternator, the number of times they can be recharged is relatively few.
Deep Cycle batteries, unlike SLI’s are specially designed to be charged and recharged hundreds of times.
Wet lead acid batteries need to have water added on a regular basis and are not recommended for mobility use.
Sealed Gel or AGM batteries are exactly that – sealed and need no additional water. Truly “maintenance free”, they provide extra convenience and safety.
NOTE OF CAUTION: Many Marine batteries are actually SLI batteries which have no application in wheelchair or scooter use. Also, not all Gel and AGM batteries are approved for air transportation as non-hazardous cargo. MK’s sealed Gel and AGM batteries are approved for airline travel.
Proper Battery Charging Procedures
To properly charge your mobility battery, follow these simple procedures:
· Use the manufacturer’s automatic charger for all routine charging
· Never use an automotive or wet type charger on sealed Gel batteries. (This will damage your battery)
· Never run your battery completely flat.
· Don’t top off the battery with frequent charging.
How Often Should A Battery Be Charged?
DAILY USERS: charge nightly. This applies to anyone who actually uses their equipment for community mobility outside their home. OCCATIONAL USERS: Charge your battery before an outing and always after active use (ideally when the battery gauge is at 50%)
How Should A Battery Be Stored?
• Always store your batteries fully charged
• Check all batteries once a month and recharge as needed.
• Sealed Gel batteries can hold a charge for up to six months.
• When storing a chair or scooter for more than two weeks, charge the batteries then disconnect them.
• Avoid hot and cold extremes when storing.
The Benefit of an advanced Sealed Gel Battery
Battery technology has changed tremendously in just the past few years. In fact, size for size MK’s advanced sealed gel batteries deliver more power and more consistent performance than other types and brands of batteries used for mobility. MK’s performance-proven sealed Gel designs
• Can last longer than other batteries with proper maintenance due to high quality manufacturing standards.
• Are a-67 DOT/FAA/IATA standard approved for airline and public transportation
• Do not need to be fully discharged before recharging
• Do not develop a memory that limits their recharging
• Will not automatically discharge if put on concrete.
You’ll cover more ground with an MK battery
Although a wet lead-acid design is initially less expensive, it has a much shorter shelf like, requires regular maintenance and poses a much higher safety risk because of potential battery acid contact and/or explosion.
An MK Gel battery features an inherently safer, truly maintenance free design. MK gel batteries have provided years of proven performance and a significantly longer life – averaging 1-2 years longer when properly charged.
Getting started with your New GEL BATTERIES.
Active users of power wheelchairs and scooters cycle their batteries daily (deep cycling). This stringent application requires a unique battery design that will sometimes compromise initial capacity in return for longer battery life. Gel battery performance improves once the battery has cycled (discharged and recharged) 15 – 20 times. This break in period is necessary to fully activate the battery for maximum performance and longevity. Thus range and running time of your mobility device could initially increase with use.
SAFETY: First, Last, and Always!
All batteries can be hazardous so always read and follow the instructions as well as the warnings attached to any battery you purchase.
All mobility batteries contain lead and sulfuric acid. Both elements are toxic and considered dangerous. In addition; when they are charged batteries produce hydrogen gas which is highly flammable and can cause an explosion.
Proper handling of batteries is mandatory at all times. Improper handling may result in any of the following:
EXPLOSION - Improper charging, poor maintenance or battery failure can cause low acid/electrolyte levels, resulting in high concentrations of hydrogen gas within the battery. This could potentially cause an explosion. While possible with all batteries, an explosion is much less likely in sealed gel batteries.
FIRE – Dropping a tool or touching a watch or bracelet across the terminals can result in shock, sparks, smoke, and even an explosion.
POLLUTION – All old batteries must be recycled through an approved agency to prevent improper disposal. MK batteries use only EPA certified smelters. Improperly disposed batteries can result in major fines and criminal prosecution.
Remember: Always have your batteries installed by a properly trained wheelchair or scooter technician. They have the training and tools required to do the job safely and correctly.
Take A Tip From Top Mobility Equipment Makers
There’s a single reason why MK is the number one brand of mobility battery among all major wheelchair manufacturers and leading rehab equipment suppliers. These industry leaders cannot afford to have their reputations riding on anything but the best power source available.
That’s why MK powered name is your assurance of getting the best battery available for your wheelchair, scooter, or other mobility device.