A Hoveround's battery range is a crucial consideration for anyone who relies on a power chair for daily mobility. While manufacturers provide a maximum distance, this number is often an estimate based on ideal conditions. Your actual mileage will vary based on a combination of factors related to the chair, the user, and the environment.
Factors affecting your Hoveround's range
To understand how far your Hoveround can truly go, it's important to consider these key variables:
- Battery Type and Age: Standard lead-acid batteries offer a solid range but will degrade over time, with their performance decreasing after about 18 months. Newer battery technologies, like lithium-ion, can offer a superior range and longer lifespan, though they come with a higher upfront cost.
- Weight Load: This includes both the user's weight and any additional items being carried. A heavier load requires more battery power to move, which reduces the overall range. This is why a 300-pound capacity chair with a 150-pound user will go farther than one with a 290-pound user.
- Terrain and Surface: Driving on smooth, flat surfaces is the most energy-efficient. Navigating inclines, uneven ground, grass, or plush carpets uses significantly more power and will quickly decrease your available range.
- Driving Habits: A stop-and-go driving style with frequent starts, stops, and turns consumes more energy than maintaining a consistent speed. The same applies to using powered features like the tilt or recline functions.
- Tire Condition: For models with pneumatic tires, keeping them properly inflated reduces rolling resistance, improving overall efficiency and range. Under-inflated tires cause the motor to work harder.
- Environmental Temperature: Batteries perform optimally within a specific temperature range, typically 64-77°F. Extreme cold can temporarily reduce the battery's capacity, while extreme heat can cause long-term damage.
Tips for maximizing your Hoveround's battery range
Getting the most out of your Hoveround's battery is a matter of adopting smart usage and charging habits. Here are some proven strategies:
- Charge daily: Make it a habit to charge your Hoveround overnight after daily use. Regular, full charges are better for battery health than letting the charge drop completely or performing frequent, short top-offs.
- Avoid deep discharge: While batteries are deep cycle, running them down to zero can be damaging. Charge your chair when the indicator lights move into the yellow zone, and never let it fully drain.
- Use the correct charger: Always use the multi-stage battery charger supplied by Hoveround or a manufacturer-approved replacement. Using the wrong charger can damage the batteries.
- Drive smoothly: Reduce aggressive starts, stops, and turns. Plan your route to take advantage of flat, smooth surfaces whenever possible to conserve energy.
- Maintain proper tire pressure: For chairs with air-filled tires, regularly check and maintain the proper inflation level as specified in your user manual.
Comparison of Hoveround model ranges
| Model | Maximum Range (Manufacturer's Estimate) | Battery Type (Common) | Weight Capacity | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hoveround MPV5 | 12 miles | (2) 12V 35Ah GEL | 300 lbs | Compact, Round for a Reason® design for tight spaces |
| Hoveround LX-5 | 12 miles | (2) 12V 35Ah Sealed Lead Acid | 300 lbs | Rear-wheel drive maneuverability |
| Hoveround Teknique FWD | Up to 15 miles | (2) 12V 35Ah Sealed Lead Acid | 300 lbs | Enhanced suspension for smooth outdoor rides |
| Hoveround LiteRider Envy | Up to 15.5 miles | (2) 12V 22Ah | 300 lbs | Lightweight and easily disassembled for transport |
Conclusion
While a Hoveround MPV5 is rated for a 12-mile range, several factors from user weight to terrain can affect this. By consistently practicing good charging habits and driving efficiently, you can maximize your chair's performance and ensure you always have enough power to get where you need to go. Remember that the manufacturer's range is a guideline, and real-world results will fluctuate. Regular maintenance, including keeping your batteries healthy and tires properly inflated, is key to reliable, long-distance mobility. When in doubt about your range, it is always safer to charge more frequently, particularly before longer outings.
Visit Hoveround.com for more detailed specifications and user manuals on their various models.
Frequently asked questions about Hoveround battery range
How often should I charge my Hoveround?
For daily users, it is recommended to charge your Hoveround every night for at least 8 to 12 hours. Even if you don't use it frequently, charging it once or twice a week will keep the batteries maintained.
Can my weight affect the battery range?
Yes, your weight and any other items you are carrying directly impact the battery range. A heavier load requires more energy, leading to a shorter travel distance on a single charge.
Do hills and rough terrain reduce my Hoveround's range?
Yes, navigating inclines, uneven surfaces, or grass uses significantly more battery power than driving on flat, paved ground. This increased power consumption will decrease your total range.
How long do Hoveround batteries last before they need to be replaced?
Hoveround batteries typically last between one and two years with proper care. After 18 months, you may start to notice a decrease in their overall capacity and range.
Can extreme temperatures harm my Hoveround's battery?
Yes, extreme heat can cause long-term battery degradation, while extreme cold can temporarily reduce performance. For best results, charge and store your Hoveround at room temperature.
What are the main differences between GEL and AGM batteries?
GEL batteries are known for their deep cycle capabilities and resistance to deep discharge, while AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are maintenance-free and provide consistent power delivery. Both are types of sealed lead-acid batteries, but their performance characteristics differ slightly.
What should I do if my battery range seems to be getting shorter?
If you notice a consistent decrease in range, first ensure you are charging the battery fully each time and driving efficiently. If the problem persists, it may be a sign that the batteries are aging and need to be replaced.
Can I upgrade my batteries for a longer range?
Depending on your Hoveround model, it may be possible to upgrade to higher-capacity batteries, which can increase your maximum travel range. Consult a mobility specialist to ensure compatibility and safety.
Is it okay to leave my Hoveround plugged in all the time?
No, you should not leave your Hoveround plugged in continuously for more than 24 hours at a time, as this can potentially damage the batteries. Following a daily or bi-weekly charge schedule is best for battery health.
