Winter is hard on any mobility device, and a little prep in October pays off when the temperature drops. Running through this checklist now helps you avoid getting stranded on a cold morning.
Battery Health
Cold weather reduces battery range, sometimes significantly. Check your battery's charge cycle and consider a full charge-discharge cycle to gauge remaining capacity. If your range has dropped noticeably over the past year, now is the time to look at a replacement before winter demand pushes it further.
Tires and Tread
Inspect tread depth and look for cracking, especially if your chair spends time outdoors. Worn tread combined with wet leaves, frost, or early snow is a real slip risk. Consider textured or all-weather tires if you live somewhere that gets consistent winter precipitation.
Brakes and Motor Response
Test your brakes on a flat, safe surface and note any delay or grinding. Cold can make mechanical parts stiffen slightly, so it's worth having any sluggish response checked by a technician before it becomes a bigger issue mid-winter.
Electrical Connections
Moisture and salt from winter roads can corrode electrical contacts over time. Wipe down connectors and check that all covers and seals are intact. A dielectric grease application on exposed contacts adds a layer of protection.
Seating and Frame
Check your seat cushion for wear and your frame for any small cracks or loose bolts that vibration may have worked loose over the year. Tighten hardware as needed, and replace cushions that have lost their support.
Build a Winter Kit
Keep a small emergency kit on your chair: a charged phone, hand warmers, a reflective vest, and your service contact's phone number. If you rely on your wheelchair daily, a few minutes of preparation each fall is the best insurance you can buy.
Not sure what your chair needs? Our support team can walk you through a pre-winter inspection specific to your model.
