How do I know if I need to replace my battery?

You should consider changing your mobility scooter battery only when:

●  Your scooter seems sluggish.
●  The range or amount of time your scooter runs is decreasing.
●  Your scooter does not start efficiently after a full charge.
●  Your scooter shuts down abruptly and refuses to get going again.

If these are some of the problems that you face regularly, you should be aware that the battery may be the problem in your mobility scooter or power wheelchair. To make sure that it does not give you any other problems, you must replace your mobility scooter batteries as soon as possible with new batteries.

Make sure your mobility scooter batteries are the same ones that you have been using so that
you are not presented with any new problems as well.

Choosing and changing your mobility scooter or power wheelchair batteries:

1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on removing your batteries. If using a battery pack then remove screws on the underside of the pack and open it up. Your batteries will be located inside.
2. Unhook battery connectors to the device before trying to remove the battery leads
3. Unhook the battery leads
4. Read the Battery Label to find out what size battery your scooter is currently using.
5. Reorder the same style and same size batteries from HomeTown Mobility and we will ship them out directly to you! CLICK HERE TO ORDER BATTERIES!
6. Attach the battery leads to the new batteries and if using a battery pack then reattach in the same fashion that they were originally and screw together the pack
7. Reattach connectors to device or if using a battery pack then put the pack(s) on the scooter as instructed by manufacturer.
8. Power up the scooter or power chair

9. It is recommended to initially charge the new batteries overnight for best results.

What do the numbers mean on my battery?

Almost all scooter and electric wheelchairs have 12-volt batteries, but they are generally fitted in pairs to give an output of 24 volts. It is highly recommended that you make sure to swap out both batteries when changing or charging them to keep the pairs together. The battery outputis usually written on the side of the battery. It’s extremely important that you never mix and match batteries that have come from different battery manufacturers or technologies, and you also never match batteries that have different or expirations dates. Lastly, you should never mix GEL batteries with AGM or SLA batteries.

There are two major kinds of batteries that are used in mobility scooters: a Lithium IonBattery or an SLA (sealed lead acid) battery. Both batteries come sealed and are non-spillable and maintenance-free, but the main difference between them are their longevity and performance. 

Mobility Scooter batteries also designed with a specific Amp Hour (AH) rating that determines how long the battery charge will last when fully charged. The higher the AH rating the longer range you will generally get out the battery. Smaller scooters generally have lower AH batteries like 12AH or 18AH and the larger scooters have larger AH batteries like 35AH, 50AH, 75AH or 100AH.

What is a Lithium Ion Battery or Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Battery?

Unlike a car battery where it’s just designed to start the car and support some other functions, the battery in your mobility scooter is designed to be the sole fuel source of the machine. A Lithium Ion Battery or SLA battery are designed to give a constant flow of power to the machine for a longer period of time. The battery has to be recharged fully after its power gets exhausted or afterANY use.

Most scooters use the SLA batteries but a select few use the Lithium Ion Battery. Lithium Ion Batteries generally have a long range but also have an increased risk of spontaneous fires and restrictions on travel on airplanes.

Active users of the wheelchairs or mobility scooters recharge their vehicles every day, so
you should make sure that the battery is completely charged before each use.

12AH

18AH

35AH

50AH

100AH

How do I know which scooter is best for me and what are the different types of mobility scooters?

     Folding Scooters, Travel/Portable Scooters, Full Sized Scooters, and Heavy Duty Scooters are the four main categories of mobility scooters available for sale by HomeTown Mobility.

     It's important to know where you will be riding your scooter most often, and if it will be used mostly indoors or outdoors. Also weight limit plays a big role in deciding which scooter is best for you.  We've broken it down for you to make your shopping as easy and enjoyable as possible.  Knowing the weight of the operator of the scooter is important as well as knowing how many wheels you would like the scooter to have. 

You will also want to decide if you want a portable scooter or a larger scooter.  If you plan on getting a larger scooter you may need a carrier or lift for the scooter.  The carrier or lift would be on your vehicle's hitch or mounted inside the back of your vehicle.  You could also get a portable mobility ramp that allows you to load the scooter into the back of your vehicle.

     3-Wheel versus 4-Wheel scooters.  The general rule of thumb is that 3-Wheel Scooters have tighter turning radiuses and are better in narrow spaces and sharp turns.  4-Wheel Scooters provide more stability and evenly distribute your weight. Foldable scooters and travel scooters can generally be used indoors and out.  4-wheel scooters provide more stability than 3-wheel models when used outdoors. If you use a walking aid, such as a cane or a walker, 4-wheel scooters are recommended due to added stability.

Folding Scooters (click here)

Discover the convenience of how a folding mobility scooter can enhance your mobility. When you need an electric scooter for your busy lifestyle, consider a folding motorized scooter. They are compact, lightweight, highly durable, and dependable. The folding mobility scooter folds with just a few simple steps and comes standard with a full lighting package and an easily adjustable tiller, making it the perfect choice for life on-the-go.

Portable/Travel Scooters

Portable scooters are available in 3-Wheel Portable scooters and 4-Wheel Portable scooters.  Explore your world with a travel scooter that offers maximum convenience and peace of mind. Travel motorized scooters easily disassemble and feature a drop-in battery box.  When disassembled they can easily fit in the trunk of a car or the back of a van or suv.  For the smoothest ride in travel mobility, some models come with an available CTS suspension. Travel electric scooters are extremely lightweight and compact. From cruising the seas to riding the rails, there is a travel scooter designed to meet your needs. 

•  - Disassemble into smaller pieces for easy transport

•  - Fit easily in the trunks of most cars, SUV’s, and vans

•  - Allow you to travel when you might not otherwise be able too

•  - Cost less than mid-sized and full-sized scooters

•  - Feature a universal accessory hitch for scooter accessories

•  - Are easy to operate

• -  Do not need a vehicle lift

Full Sized Mobility Scooters

 Full sized mobility scooters are available in 3-wheel full sized scooter or 4-wheel full sized scooter options.  Enjoy maximum stability and superior performance with full sized mobility scooter.  Our Full size mobility scooters are engineered and factory tested to ensure consistent and top performance. For motorized scooters that are easy to use and extremely versatile, consider a full sized mobility scooter.

•  Are designed for full-time regular use

•  Offer more advanced features for comfort and performance

•  Feature longer driving ranges and higher weight capacities

•  Feature a universal accessory hitch for scooter accessories

•  May need a vehicle lift for transport or a portable ramp for loading into the back of an SUV, Van or Pickup.

Heavy Duty Scooters

        Heavy Duty Scooters are available in 3-Wheel Heavy Duty Scooters and 4-Wheel Heavy Duty Scooter options.  Mobility scooters that are heavy duty are ideal for bariatric users and for those who use their scooter frequently outdoors.  They are available with a Max Weight capacity of up to 500lbs and have deep comfortable seating with an ergonomically enhanced design to ensure the best ride possible. Available in multiple options, from portable to all-terrain. Heavy Duty motorized scooters allow you to maintain your mobility and independence.

•   - Longer Driving Ranges

•   - Feature a universal accessory hitch

•   - Offer more leg and foot room

•   - Ideal for outdoor use

•   - Feature higher ground clearance

•   - Come standard with illuminating lighting packages

•   - Often feature full suspension for a smoother ride

•   - Need a compatible vehicle lift for transport.  

Only Top Rated Brands offered by HomeTown Mobility

Pride Mobility, Drive Medical, Golden Technology, and Shoprider.

Contact Us...

     If you have any questions, our Mobility Experts are happy to answer any and all of your questions. Call us at 1-877-928-5388 or stop in and see our showroom at HomeTown Mobility, 101 Jackson Street, Merrill, IA 51038. You can also email us at tammya1@hometownmobilityia.com

Mobility scooters were introduced in the late 60’s and have been a game changer ever since. With an emphasis on utility and comfortability, anybody can get where they need to go by themselves with ease. 

An Independent Lifestyle

The problem with basic wheelchairs is that they lack versatility and can be time consuming and difficult to use. Simple tasks like getting a glass of water from the kitchen or picking up the television remote can become a hassle for many people. 

That’s where mobility scooters come in. These scooters are great for improving mobility to help you with all of your daily activities and errands. They also encourage independent living so that you can handle life better on your own without assistance.

Portability

The majority of scooters nowadays are highly adjustable and can easily break down for quick storage. Folding and portable scooters are especially lightweight and compact, and can be highly beneficial for busy people who are always on the move. A lot of these models are able to compress to the size of a small suitcase to store in your car, and can even be taken on most flights as long as their battery meets the airline’s regulations. These scooters are usually more affordable than their full sized counterparts and do not require a vehicle lift.

Great Speeds & Longevity

Most mobility scooters offer an excellent range of speeds suitable for any occasion. Whether it’s basic home usage or enjoying a stroll in the park with your loved ones, keeping pace will be a breeze. Furthermore, most scooter batteries can last up to an entire day on a single charge, ensuring that you can handle all of your daily activities without recharging. Enjoying a stroll around town has never been so convenient.

A Wide Variety of Models

There’s a mobility scooter out there for everyone, catering to different factors such as age, size, and utility. Midsize options like folding and portable scooters are great for travelling and everyday usage, while full-size and heavy duty scooters offer longer driving ranges and increased weight capacities. 

The number of wheels you prefer can make a huge difference in your experience as well. 3-wheel scooters are better for navigating through smaller spaces and feature tighter turning radiuses, while 4-wheel scooters provide great stability and can distribute your weight more evenly. Regardless of the model you choose, your scooter will definitely make life a lot easier for you to navigate.

Style & Accessories

Although most people prefer simplicity when choosing a mobility scooter, most models come standard with great features like premium seats and armrests. These seats are generally very comfortable and are easily adjustable to cater to your body. In addition to these, there are plenty of additional options and upgrades for you to choose from. Whether it’s simple features like color selections and baskets, or premium features like rearview mirrors and headlights, your scooter can be easily customized to be more stylish and to better support your needs. 

No Registration Needed!

The best part about mobility scooters is that you do not need any registration or license to operate them. Scooters have manufacturing regulations on speed which makes them safe to use around other people in public spaces. 

Affordability

With a large number of manufacturers that can make specialized products for anyone, the market is filled with tons of excellent options for you to choose from. Some models are even coverable by health insurance. It’s all about just finding what scooter will be the best value for you and will fit your needs the best.

Overall, these mobility scooters are perfect for anybody needing assistance moving around and taking care of business. Be sure to check out our website to explore plenty of great options and to find more information about what a mobile scooter can do for you!