7 Best Wheelchair Batteries

Have you been looking for the best wheelchair battery for your power chair?

Things to Keep in Mind When Purchasing a Battery, for an Electric Wheelchair

Selecting the battery for a wheelchair is a significant decision that can affect the wheelchair’s performance and dependability. Whether you are replacing a battery or buying one for the first time, here are important aspects to think about to make a well-informed decision.

Types of Batteries

1. Lead Acid Batteries;

These are the most widely used batteries in electric wheelchairs. They are dependable and relatively cost effective and come in two types; wet cell (flooded) and sealed (gel or AGM). Sealed batteries require no maintenance while wet cell batteries may need regular upkeep but can offer slightly longer ranges.

2. Lithium Ion Batteries;

These batteries are lighter and more compact compared to lead acid batteries offering more energy density. They tend to be pricier but have longer lifespans and shorter charging times. However, it is important to confirm their compatibility with your wheelchair model before making a purchase

3. Compatibility

Make sure that the wheelchair battery you select is compatible with your wheelchair model. Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications. Seek advice from the wheelchair provider to ensure that the battery meets the required voltage and amp-hour specifications.

Battery Capacity, in Amp Hours

The wheelchair battery capacity, measured in amp hours (Ah), determines how long the wheelchair can run on a charge. A higher amp-hour rating usually means the wheelchair can travel longer distances. When choosing a battery capacity, it’s important to consider your usage and travel requirements.

Charging Time

Different batteries have charging times. Generally, lithium-ion batteries charge faster than lead-acid batteries. If you need your wheelchair to be ready for use quickly, it’s worth considering the battery charging time and whether a fast charger is an option.

Weight

The weight of the battery is another factor to consider, especially if you need to transport the wheelchair. While heavier batteries may offer power, they can be difficult to handle during travel or maintenance.

Life Span and Durability

The lifespan of the wheelchair battery is crucial to consider. Lead acid batteries typically last around 1 to 2 years depending on usage whereas lithium ion batteries can last up to 5 years or more. It’s also important to think about the batterys durability, how well it can withstand factors, like temperature changes and physical impact.

Maintenance Needs

Some types of batteries, like wet cell lead-acid ones, need upkeep, such as monitoring electrolyte levels and topping up with distilled water. In contrast, sealed lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries typically don’t require maintenance. It’s important to consider your willingness and ability to perform maintenance when selecting a battery.

Cost Considerations

Battery prices can vary widely depending on the type, capacity and brand. While opting for an option might seem appealing it’s crucial to strike a balance between cost and factors like quality, reliability and lifespan. Investing in a high quality battery could ultimately save you money by reducing the need for replacements.

Warranty Assistance

Review the warranty provided with the wheelchair battery you’re considering. A solid warranty can offer peace of mind. Safeguard you against defects or premature failures. Additionally assess the level of customer support offered by the manufacturer or supplier.

Environmental Factors

For those concerned about impact it’s worth looking into the recycling options for your chosen battery. Certain batteries, lithium ion ones are eco friendly, in terms of energy efficiency and recyclability.

Safety Measures

Make sure the battery comes with safety measures such, as protection against overcharging, short circuits and temperature control to avoid overheating. These safeguards play a role in preventing mishaps and guaranteeing the functioning of your wheelchair.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the battery for your wheelchair is crucial to ensure consistent performance and comfort.

By taking into account factors like battery type, compatibility, capacity, charging duration, weight, lifespan, maintenance needs, expenses, warranty coverage, environmental impact, and safety precautions, you can make a decision that caters to your requirements and improves your mobility.

It’s advisable to seek advice from your wheelchair provider or a knowledgeable individual to confirm that the chosen battery best suits your circumstances.

If you’re confused and tired of reading specifications, let us help you.

We reviewed the five best wheelchair batteries to deliver a detailed report on who they’re best for, their features, benefits, and drawbacks.

First, you can glance at the comparison table to familiarize yourself with the five products, then dive into the comprehensive review to find your best option.

READ MORE: Top Manual Wheelchair Brands

Best Batteries for Wheelchair at a Glance

• Interstate Batteries 12V 55Ah Deep Cycle Battery (DCM0055) – Best Perfomance
• UB-24 GEL Lead Acid Gel Battery – WINNER
• Weize 12V 35AH Deep Cycle Battery- Best Package
• UB12350 Sealed Lead Acid Battery- Best For Long Hour Use
• K22NF Kinetik Pro Gel Battery- Best Gel Product

Check this comparison table for a quick guide. Read the review for further details.

7 Best Wheelchair Batteries [with Complete Reviews]

Ever since the first electric wheelchair was produced in 1956, it’s been an essential and significant means of transport for people with impaired mobility.

Getting from one spot to another requires energy that this type of wheelchair gets from its batteries.

Below you’ll find reviews of the five devices for power wheelchairs that you should know about.

1. Interstate Batteries 12V 55Ah Deep Cycle Battery (DCM0055) – Best Performance

The DCM0055 is a maintenance-free, rechargeable DCM battery with a capacity of 12V 55AH. This wheelchair battery is constructed using VRLA Technology to minimize spillage and over-pressurization, and it has a long life for deep discharge applications.

Physical Attributes

• 12V 55AH, 20H Deep Cycle Mobility Battery
• 9.02L x 5.43W x 8.27H (in inches)
• 37.50LBS

Quantitative Measurements

• Capacity: High capacity lasts long
• Size: Small size and lightweight
• Fit: Fits several popular wheelchair and electric scooter manufacturers, including Jazzy Chairs, Leisure Lift, Pride Mobility Scooters, Invacare battery, Hoveround, and Bruno wheelchairs, among others.

How it Compares to Others and Why

The AGM and VRLA (valve-regulated) technology minimize spills and overpressure, making it rechargeable, maintenance-free, and spill-resistant.

This professional-grade product was designed exclusively for wheelchairs and scooters. Its long battery life for intense discharge use provides the best performance for high-demand mobility/wheelchairs.

Expert Tips

• It is recommended that you use your battery in applications that will deplete and recharge it regularly to get the most life out of it.

2. UB-24 GEL Lead Acid Gel Battery – WINNER

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line hands-off battery that will last you a very long time, the UB-24 GEL is the perfect pick. Let’s find out what makes it so special. 

Physical Attributes

• Weighs: 51.5 lbs.
• Voltage: 12 volts
• Amp Hours: 75 Ah
• Length: 7.79”
• Width: 6.54”
• Height: 7.09” 

Quantitative Measurements

Capacity: With 75 amp hours, the UB24 Gel battery is capable of running for a solid 20 hours on a full charge.  

Size: As you can see, this is among the largest batteries, with a hefty weight of 51.5 lbs. It’s also longer and wider than most other batteries. 

Fit: The UB24 fits a wide range of popular models, including Braun, Chauffeur Mobility, Pride Mobility (Jazzy), Medline, Invacare, and more. 

How it Compares to Others and Why

The UB-24 Gel will keep you going long after the other batteries on our list need recharging. It lasts twice as long as the Weize, the battery with the second-longest-running time on our list. 

As the name implies, it’s also one of the few batteries on the market to fix the acid that makes the battery function inside a gel mat. 

Expert Tip

• While the UB24 Gel operates longer on a full charge than others and features a maintenance-free design, it’s still important to follow good practices for extending the life of your battery. 

3. Weize 12V 35AH Deep Cycle Battery – Best Package

The 12 V 35 AH deep cycle battery comes in a pack of two. It has a high electric capacity of 35 Ah, meaning that it can power your wheelchair for many hours.

Staying busy has never been easier, thanks to a product like this one.

Physical Attributes

• Weighs: 42.1 lbs.
• Voltage: 12 volts
• Amp Hours: 35 Ah
• Length: 7.79”
• Width: 6.54”
• Height: 7.09” 

Quantitative Measurements

• Capacity: The Weize deep cycle battery has a high capacity and long battery life, perfect for users who need their power wheelchair throughout the day. If you opt for this product, you’ll need to charge it less often.
• Size: It’s heftier and weightier than power units with 12 Ah and 15 Ah capacity and heavier than the Kinetik Pro gel power cell.
• Fit: This battery is commonly used for motors and wheelchairs, such as the Jazzy Select GT Power Chair, Pride Mobility Jazzy Select 6, Trolling Motor, Power Patrol SLA1156, Lawn Garden Tractor Riding Mower, and Invacare Pronto M50 M51 M61 M71 Booster.

The Weize battery pack includes two cells that last for many hours. It is a rechargeable product with a one-year warranty.

Although it comes with screws, it doesn’t include a wire harness or mounting. It’s one of the most affordable picks on this list since it contains two units.

Keep in mind that these cells are larger and weigh more. Check your wheelchair before deciding to purchase it to see if it can accommodate a cell with these dimensions.

How it Compares to Others and Why

This is the only product that includes two units in the package. All the other products on the list of our top picks feature a single cell.

The thing about power wheelchair batteries is that it’s recommended that you change both, even if one of the units performs well.

You should always consider buying two cells to preserve the health of your wheelchair.

The Weize 12 V 35Ah deep cycle unit is a 35-amp-hour cell. The only other product on the list with the same electric charge is the UB12350 Sealed Lead Acid Battery.

When comparing these two in the price category, the Weize is an absolute winner since it’s a package of two devices.

How the Product Evolved

Weize has a wide variety of rechargeable 12 V sealed lead-acid batteries. The difference between them is the capacity.

This product has predecessors with lower capacity, units that will last fewer hours before having to be recharged again.

Expert Tips

• This Weize product is compatible with 24-volt electric chairs, solar chairs, electric scooters, golf carts, emergency lighting, portable tools, leisure RV camping, and more. If something happens to your new purchase, you get a one-year warranty.
• If you’re looking for a power unit that will take you far and will serve you long, you should consider this one. Its main feature, the large capacity, delivers great performance and is excellent for a customer who needs a wheelchair daily for long hours during the day and needs to stay mobile and travel continuously. But, if you have a power wheelchair that you only use for a few hours, you can opt for a 12 Ah battery.

CHECK: Best Stair Climbing Wheelchair

4. UB12350 Sealed Lead Acid Battery- Best For Long Hour Use

The moment you find out that your winner in the electric vs. manual wheelchair battle is a power wheelchair, you need to start thinking about power sources.

Charging and buying new ones will become a regular part of your life, so if you’re a regular wheelchair user for many hours of the day, you should see the features of the UB12350 sealed lead acid battery.

Physical Attributes

• Weighs: 24.5 lbs
• Voltage: 12 volts
• Amp Hours: 35 Ah
• Length: 7.7”
• Width: 5.2”
• Height: 7.1”

Quantitative Measurements

• Capacity: a capacity of 35 Ah is great for regular, long-hour wheelchair users.
• Size: This product is heavy and large. To be sure that it works for your wheelchair, check with the manufacturer or the instruction manual.
• Fit: This cell is compatible with Escape LX HP8 Power Wheelchair by EV Rider, Escape DX HP5 Folding Power Wheelchair by EV Rider, Rumba P4R Power Wheelchair by EV Rider, Drive Image EC Powerchair, Cirrus Plus Power Wheelchair by Drive, Drive Cobalt X23 Standard Power Wheelchair, Drive Trident Front Wheel Drive Power Chair, Compact Mid-Wheel Drive Power Chair by CTM, HS-1000 Compact Rear Wheel Drive Power Chair by CTM, CTM HS-6200 Folding Power Chair with Drop-In Cell, CTM HS-2850 Compact Mid Wheel Drive Power Chair, Invacare Nutron R51 Motorized Wheelchair, Invacare Pronto M51 Power Wheelchair, Invacare Pronto P31 Power Wheelchair, Invacare Pronto M41 Power Wheelchair, Pride Portable Jazzy Elite ES, Pride Jazzy Select 6 Power Chair, Pride Jazzy Select Elite, Pride Jazzy Elite ES 1, Zip’r PC Power Wheelchair, and more. It’s also compatible with most mobility scooters.

How it Compares to Others and Why

Considering that this is a 35 Ah device, it’s heavier and bigger than units with 12 Ah and 15 Ah.

This is something you need to keep in mind when choosing the best wheelchair batteries for your power wheelchair. Also, the price listed is for a single battery.

How the Product Evolved

Universal Power Group has several 12 V devices with a lower capacity than the UB12350 sealed lead acid battery.

Expert Tips

• Everyone who needs a power wheelchair for a long period of time also needs a power unit with a high Ah and long battery life. This product makes things easier because you won’t have to charge it as often, it’s sealed, plus it doesn’t need water additions.

5. K22NF Kinetik Pro Gel Battery- Best Gel Product

The K2NF Kinetik Pro gel unit might be the only gel-cell battery on the list, but according to customers, it’s an amazing purchase for power wheelchairs.

Physical Attributes

• Weighs: 39 lbs.
• Voltage: 12 volts
• Amp Hours: 55 Ah
• Length: 19”
• Width: 50”
• Height: 8.4″

Quantitative Measurements

• Capacity: High capacity, great for a user who needs the wheelchair during the entire day.
• Size: It’s heavy and large, so check if your power chair supports it.
• Fit: The K22NF Kinetik Pro gel is compatible with the following wheelchair and scooter models: Invacare Pronto M94 Heavy Duty Powerchair, Pride Maxima Heavy Duty 3-Wheel Electric Scooter, Pride Maxima Heavy Duty 4-Wheel Scooter, Pride Jazzy Elite HD, Pride Jazzy 614HD Bariatric Power Chair, Pride Jazzy 600 ES, Fits Pride Jazzy Elite 14.

How it Compares to Others and Why

This is a different product compared to the others because of the technology that it uses in the production.

It’s more durable in terms of the number of charges. But, it’s also more expensive compared to AGM cells.

How the Product Evolved

The predecessor of the Kinetik Pro 55 Ah cell is the Kinetik Pro 33 Ah. The improvement is most notable in the higher capacity of the power unit.

Expert Tips

• Since it has the highest Ah, you can rely on this product to keep your wheelchair going for many hours with superior performance. In general, these devices outperform AGM units in the number of charges before they need a replacement. The initial cost of gel products is higher, but that will balance out because you’ll need to buy this product less often compared to AGM products.

6. UB12150 Sealed Lead-Acid Battery- Best Capacity For Money

The UB12150 is a standard sealed lead-acid battery that fits all power wheelchairs. This product is where units with a high capacity and units with a low capacity meet.

It’s an excellent purchase for people who don’t spend the entire day on a wheelchair, however, they spend more than 5 hours.

Physical Attributes

• Weighs 8.5 lbs.
• Voltage: 12 volts
• Amp Hours: 15 Ah
• Length: 5.95″
• Width: 3.89″
• Height: 3.70″
• Thickness: 3.94″

Quantitative Measurements

• Capacity: the higher the capacity, the more hours your chair will last. The lowest one on this list has a 12 Ah capacity, while the highest one has a 35 Ah capacity. The UB12150 sealed lead acid battery is somewhere in the middle between the two. If you use your wheelchair for several hours per day, but you don’t spend the entire day in it, 15 Ah capacity should be enough.
• Size: This is a product with larger dimensions compared to the standard 12 Ah power units. The best way to know it will fit your wheelchair is to measure or check with the manufacturer.
• Fits: a standard cell that fits most power wheelchairs: CTM Portable Power Chair, EZ Lite Cruiser Powerchair, EZ Lite Cruiser Deluxe DX12 Powerchair, EZ Lite Cruiser Deluxe DX10 Powerchair, EZ Lite Cruiser Deluxe DX8 Powerchair, and more.

How it Compares to Others and Why

Although the capacity of this cell is not the highest among other products on this list, it will still keep your wheelchair going for a long time.

The price is reasonable, but remember that you need two units for a power chair.

How the Product Evolved

One of the products that are comparable to this device is the brand’s 12 Ah product. It has a lower electric capacity and will power the wheelchair for fewer hours than the UB12150 power unit.

Expert Tips

• This rechargeable battery works great for power wheelchairs, portable tools, engine starters, golf carts, and much more. It’s a universal battery compatible with most wheelchairs.
• Since it has a 15 Ah capacity, it’s great for a customer who doesn’t depend on their wheelchair during the entire day but still spends a few hours in their power wheelchair. If you need to be active for long hours on any terrain, we recommend getting a power unit with a higher capacity. The fact that it offers a one-year warranty is a huge plus.

7. UB12120 Sealed Lead Acid Battery Type- Best Budget

Last but not least, the UB12120 sealed lead-acid battery is the best budget option if you don’t want to splurge too much but still need to power your electric wheelchair.

During our research, we discovered that it’s an excellent alternative for a user who doesn’t mind charging their device often or people who don’t use the power chair for many hours.

Physical Attributes

• Weighs: 16 lbs.
• Voltage: 12 volts
• Amp Hours: 12 Ah
• Length: 6.0”
• Width: 3.9”
• Height: 3.8”

Quantitative Measurements

• Capacity: low capacity that doesn’t last too long.
• Size: small size and lightweight.
• Fit: some of the wheelchairs that use it are Pride Mobility Sonic Electric Scooter, Dart Travel Vehicle, Go-Chair Travel Powerchair, Go-Go Elite Traveler, Go-Go Ultra X3 & X4, Z Chair, Shoprider Jimmie Power Chair, XtraLite 3 and 4 wheel Portable Mobility Electric Scooter and Scootie, Sunrise Medical Quickie P-11 Maneuverable Power Chair, Microlite Ruby Electric Chair, Shoprider Smartie Power Wheelchair.

How it Compares to Others and Why

This is the product with the lowest capacity on the list, but also with the lowest price. If you use the power motor as a rehabilitation tool for a short time, you don’t need a high-capacity battery.

The performance might not be the highest, however, our research shows that it’s still good enough for daily use.

How the Product Evolved

There are versions of this product with a lower capacity, but they will be suitable for a power wheelchair since they will need to be charged too often; otherwise, they will end up with a dead battery.

Expert Tips

• Using a low-capacity SLA replacement battery means charging it more often and having to calculate the miles before you start driving it. If you only use the power chair for a few hours, you can invest in this battery.

READ MORE: Tips on How to Extend the Life of Your Power Chair Battery

FAQs for the Wheelchair Battery

Conclusion

Did you know that the electric wheelchair market size is expected to reach 5.8 billion by 2027? More and more users decide to improve their mobility by using power chairs that use batteries.

These cells are not eternal; instead, they need to be replaced from time to time.

Finding the best wheelchair battery is not simple, especially if you’re new to this world.

Even if this isn’t your first time purchasing, it’s hard to figure out what all the numbers mean and how they will benefit your wheelchair.

After reading these five suggestions, can you decide which product will be the most suitable purchase for your power chair and your budget? We already know our favorite!

Our Top Pick/Recommendation

Although all of the above recommendations deliver excellent overall performance, the UB-24 GEL Lead Acid Gel Battery is the one that stands out and according to our research is the best battery for a wheelchair.

The UB-24 Gel will keep you going long after the other batteries.

References:

• “% of Normal Capacity at 77^o F (25^o C.” n.d. Accessed May 24, 2021. https://www.1800wheelchair.com/media/manuals/K22NF_Battery_Specifications_47601.pdf
• “Battery Powered Wheelchair and Mobility Aid Guidance Document.” n.d. Accessed May 24, 2021. https://www.iata.org/contentassets/6fea26dd84d24b26a7a1fd5788561d6e/mobility-aid-guidance-document.pdf
• “Power Wheelchair Batteries: Understanding How the Battery Works.” n.d. Karman® Wheelchairs. https://www.karmanhealthcare.com/power-wheelchair-batteries-understanding-how-the-battery-works/.
• “Testing Your Mobility Scooter Batteries.” 2017. MobilityWorks. September 20, 2017. https://www.wmscooters.com/news/how-to-test-a-mobility-scooter-battery/

What is your top pick for wheelchair batteries? Share with us below!