Molly Ayala
Electric wheelchairs can usually be pushed manually, although this is not recommended on a regular basis due to the weight of the chair. Most electric wheelchairs can be manually pushed by disengaging the drive motors, which can be done by pushing down on the bright yellow freewheel levers. This allows you to push the chair manually without affecting the motor function. This feature is useful if your battery runs out, your chair breaks down, or if you want to save battery. However, it is important to note that when the power chair is in freewheel mode, the braking system is disengaged, so it is important to take precautions when disengaging and reengaging the freewheel levers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to manually push an electric wheelchair | When the battery runs out, the chair breaks down, or when you want to save the battery |
| How to manually push an electric wheelchair | Disengage the drive motors by turning off the power, then push down on the yellow freewheel levers to put the chair in freewheel mode |
| How to re-engage the drive motors | Pull up both manual freewheel levers to put the power chair back in drive mode |
| Precautions | Avoid disengaging the motors on an incline to prevent the wheelchair from rolling on its own, and stand on the side of the chair rather than in front or behind it |
| Downsides of manually pushing an electric wheelchair | Electric wheelchairs can be heavy and difficult to push, especially on inclines or challenging terrain |
| Alternatives to manual pushing | Choose a lightweight model, use a powerpack or power add-on kit to assist with pushing, or carry a spare battery |
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What You'll Learn
Identify the freewheel lever
To identify the freewheel lever, look for a bright yellow tip. Electric wheelchairs are equipped with a manual freewheel lever mounted on each motor. These levers allow you to disengage the drive motors so that the chair can be pushed manually.
The freewheel lever is used to switch between electric and manual mode. When the levers are pushed down, the wheelchair enters freewheel mode, meaning the drive motor is disengaged and the chair can be pushed manually. It is important to turn off the power before pushing down the levers to avoid an error message. Once the levers are pushed down, the chair can be manually pushed or moved.
When you are done pushing the chair and want to switch back to electric mode, simply pull up both levers to put the chair back in drive mode. This requires bending down and pushing and pulling the levers. You may need assistance with this, especially if you are the one sitting in the chair.
It is important to note that when the chair is in freewheel mode, the braking system is disengaged. For safety, when disengaging or re-engaging the levers, stand on the side of the chair, not in front or behind it. Be gentle with the levers, as applying too much force can damage them or the chair's brakes or motors.
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Disengage the drive motors
Disengaging the drive motors of an electric wheelchair is a simple process, but it is important to follow the correct steps to avoid any potential issues. Firstly, it is imperative to turn off the wheelchair's power before attempting to disengage the drive motors. Failing to do so may result in an error message appearing on the controller. This error code can be cleared by turning off the controller, placing the wheelchair in drive mode, and then turning the controller on again.
Once the power is off, you can locate the freewheel levers or switches to disengage the drive motors. These levers or switches will vary depending on the make and model of your wheelchair. For example, Pride power wheelchairs have yellow switches located at the front of the wheelchair's frame, while Quickie power wheelchairs have either red switches or black levers that can be twisted or flipped. Quantum power wheelchairs have yellow freewheel levers, and Permobil power wheelchairs have one of four different types of switches. Consult your wheelchair's owner's manual for specific instructions on locating and operating the freewheel levers or switches.
After locating the correct levers or switches, push them down or pull them to disengage the drive motors. This will put your wheelchair in "Free Wheel" or "Freewheel" mode, allowing you to push the wheelchair manually. It is important to note that when the wheelchair is in this mode, the braking system is disengaged, so be sure to stand to the side of the wheelchair instead of in front or behind it. Additionally, avoid disengaging the motors on an incline, as this may cause the wheelchair to roll on its own.
When you are ready to reengage the drive motors, simply pull up on the manual freewheel levers or switches to put the wheelchair back into drive mode. As with disengaging, you may need assistance from a caregiver or loved one when reengaging the drive motors, especially if you are unable to bend down or push and pull the levers or switches yourself. Remember to exercise caution and follow the recommended procedures to ensure your safety and the proper functioning of your electric wheelchair.
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Avoid inclines
Electric wheelchairs can be heavy, and even slight inclines can make them seem heavier. For example, when pushing a power chair up a ramp, it is safer and requires less strength to push the wheelchair from behind.
If you are pushing a wheelchair up or down a ramp, it is important to take breaks if necessary to avoid fatigue. Before taking a break, engage the wheelchair's brakes and ensure it is on a flat surface before releasing the handles.
If you are pushing a wheelchair up a ramp, lean your body weight into the wheelchair and push it forward, using your legs and back muscles to provide power. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and maintain good posture to avoid strain on your back.
If you are pushing a wheelchair down a ramp, lean back slightly and use your body weight to control the speed of the wheelchair. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and maintain good posture to avoid strain on your back.
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Re-engage the drive motors
Electric wheelchairs, also known as power or motorized wheelchairs, are propelled by in-built motors. These motors can be disengaged to allow for manual pushing of the wheelchair. Re-engaging the drive motors of an electric wheelchair is a simple process, but it requires some physical effort and caution. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Locate the Freewheel Levers:
Electric wheelchairs are equipped with manual freewheel levers mounted on each drive motor. These levers are typically identified by their bright yellow tips. The levers are used to engage and disengage the drive motors. Before attempting to re-engage the motors, ensure that you have located both of these levers.
Position Yourself Safely:
When working with the freewheel levers, it is important to position yourself correctly for safety. Stand on the side of the wheelchair, not directly in front or behind it. This positioning reduces the risk of injury in case the wheelchair moves unexpectedly.
Pull Up the Levers:
To re-engage the drive motors, pull up on both freewheel levers simultaneously. This action will require bending down and applying some force to the levers. Ensure that you are on level ground before attempting this, as engaging the motors on an incline could cause the wheelchair to roll. You may need assistance with this step, especially if you have limited mobility or strength.
Check the Power Status:
After re-engaging the drive motors, confirm that the wheelchair's power is on. If the power was previously turned off, turn it back on. Check the controller for any error messages. If an error code appears, turn off the controller, ensure the levers are in the correct position, and turn the controller on again. This should clear the error.
Test the Wheelchair:
Once the drive motors are re-engaged and the power is on, test the wheelchair to ensure it is functioning properly. Try operating the controls to move the wheelchair forward and backward, and in different directions. Ensure that the wheelchair responds as expected and that the motors are engaged securely.
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively re-engage the drive motors of an electric wheelchair, allowing the user to resume normal operation and mobility. Remember to exercise caution and, if needed, don't be afraid to ask for assistance.
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Consider a lightweight model
Electric wheelchairs can be heavy, with some models weighing up to 300 lbs (136 kg). This weight can become a problem when manually pushing the wheelchair, especially when faced with steep hills or inclines, or when navigating varied terrain. The weight of the chair can compound and quickly start to feel heavier, and even the slightest inclines or changes in the environment can make it seem like a great difficulty to manually push a heavier power chair.
Therefore, if you think you will need to manually push your electric wheelchair frequently, it would be beneficial to consider a lightweight model. Lightweight electric wheelchairs generally weigh less than 100 lbs (45 kg), making them much easier to push and transport. These wheelchairs are designed to be compact and easily foldable or disassembled into manageable pieces, making them ideal for confined spaces, narrow doorways, and travel.
When choosing a lightweight electric wheelchair, it is important to consider not only the weight of the chair but also its durability and performance. Look for a model that combines being lightweight with being hardwearing, so that it can withstand challenging terrains and perform both electronically and manually. For example, the LITH-TECH Compact is a powerful motorized wheelchair that can also be easily folded, lifted, or operated manually. Similarly, Pride's Go-Chair offers the strength and solid feel of a traditional chair while remaining lightweight and portable.
Additionally, consider the features that will make the wheelchair easier to push and transport. For example, the LiteRider Envy has a compact design that allows for easy maneuverability in narrow indoor spaces and crowded areas. The BuzzAbout features a robust frame and powerful motor, enabling smooth navigation over varied terrain. Some wheelchairs also offer enhanced legroom, adjustable backrests and armrests, and remote control for seamless mobility.
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Frequently asked questions
Most electric wheelchairs can be pushed manually. To do this, you must first disengage the drive motors by turning off the power and then pushing down on the yellow freewheel levers. This puts the chair in freewheel mode, allowing you to push it manually. Be aware that the braking system will also be disengaged in this mode.
There are several reasons why you might need to manually push an electric wheelchair. This could be because your battery has run out, or because you want to save battery if you are going to be out for a prolonged period. You may also need to push it manually to transport or store the chair, such as when wheeling it up a ramp into a vehicle.
Electric wheelchairs can be heavy, and the weight can be further compounded by inclines or changes in terrain, making it difficult to push. Additionally, electric wheelchairs should not get wet as this could cause the chair to malfunction electronically and mechanically.
