FAQ Power Wheelchairs

Here at All Star Medical, we do everything possible to ensure each and every customer loves the power wheelchair they purchase from us by educating them on all options available, determining where the unit will be used and for what purpose. Below are tips for you to select the best power wheelchair for your need.

Weight Capacity – This is crucial for determining which powerchair fits your needs. Most Electric wheelchairs have a 300 lb weight capacity but some have a weight capacity of 450 lbs. We even have one model that goes up to 600 lbs. The weight capacity is the total weight that the unit can handle according to the manufacturer. Selecting a power wheelchair which does not support the user’s weight can void the warranty, and can cause costly repairs.

Front, Rear or Mid-wheel Drive Powerchairs – The position of the drive wheels significantly affects the space needed for the chair to turn around, and the way the chair maneuvers in tight spaces. There are two measurements that usually are referred to in wheelchair specifications. The 360-degree turning circumference is the entire area needed by the wheelchair to turn in a complete circle. The turning radius is the distance from the center of the chair between the drive wheels (pivot point) to the furthest point on the chair.

A mid-wheel drive power wheelchair has caster wheels on the front and back of the base, helping to prevent the powerchair from tipping forward or backward. Power wheelchairs with mid-wheel drive also have good traction on most surfaces, inclines and side slopes.

Front-wheel drives have a turning radius of 25 to 28 inches and a larger 360-degree circumference than mid-wheel drives. However, they actually navigate around tight corners better than the other two drive systems because the position of the pivot point gives them a very short front end. But turning around in a small space is tricky because of the long back end.

Rear Wheel Drive – Rear-wheel drives have the largest 360-degree circumference and turning radius (30 to 33 inches depending on the unit selected) of the three drive systems, making them more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Seat Width – The dimensions of the seat are important based on the user’s measurements. Most seats DO come with adjustable armrests, so you can adjust them outwards or inwards for comfort.

Weight of Heaviest Piece (when disassembled) – If you are considering a unit that disassembles, pay close attention to the weight of the heaviest piece to ensure it will be manageable for the person storing the unit.

Travel Range – This is the total distance a unit can travel on a full battery charge.