SECTION 2—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING
20
Checking Battery Charge Level
The following “Do’s” and “Don’ts” are provided for your convenience and safety.
Field Load Test
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.1.
NOTE: The following test can also be performed through the controller of the wheelchair along
with a remote programmer. Refer to the electronics manual supplied with each wheelchair.
Old batteries lose their ability to store and release power, due to increased internal
resistance. This means that as you try to take power from the battery, some of that power
is used up in the process of passing through the battery, resulting in less voltage at the
posts. The more power drawn, the lower the voltage available. When this lost voltage
drops the output 1.0 volts under load (2.0 for a pair), replace the batteries.
To spot this problem, test batteries under load.
Use a digital voltmeter to check battery charge level at the charger connector. It is located
on the joystick.
NOTE: READ these instructions and the manufacturer’s instructions CAREFULLY on the
digital voltmeter before using the digital voltmeter.
NOTE: Invacare recommends that ONLY a qualified technician perform this test.
1. Ensure that power is OFF.
2. Make sure battery is fully charged. An extremely discharged battery will exhibit the
same symptoms as a bad one.
3. Remove the footrests from the wheelchair
4. Connect the voltmeter leads to the charger port on the wheelchair as shown in
FIGURE 2.1. Most digital voltmeters are not affected by polarity, however, analog
meters (meters with swinging needles) can be and should be used carefully. A good
meter reading should be 25.5 to 26 VDC.
DO
DON’T
Read and understand this manual and any service
information that accompanies a battery and charger
before operating the wheelchair.
DO NOT perform any installation or maintenance
without first reading this manual.
Move the wheelchair to a work area before opening
battery box or installing service batteries.
DO NOT perform installation or maintenance of
batteries in an area that could be damaged by
battery spills.
Recharge as frequently as possible to maintain a high
charge level and extend battery life.
DO NOT make it a habit to discharge batteries to the
lowest level.
Follow recommendations in this manual when select-
ing a battery or charger.
DO NOT use randomly chosen batteries or chargers.
Fully charge new batteries before using.
DO NOT put new batteries into service before charging.
