Is there such a thing as overcharging? Can I leave my batteries charging overnight? If you’re asking yourself these questions, then MK Battery has the answers. In today’s blogs, we’ll delve into our most frequently asked questions about charging batteries used in power mobility equipment and how to do it properly. 

How Do I Charge My Batteries? 

If you use a scooter or power wheelchair, then charging your batteries is of utmost importance for safety and to extend the life of your battery for as long as possible. Below are simple procedures to follow to properly charge your batteries. Always refer to the owner’s manual for the most appropriate instructions. 

  1. Use the manufacturer’s automatic charger or a comparable charger for all routine charging. 
  2. Never use an automotive or wet-type charger on sealed Gel or AGM batteries (this will damage your battery). 
  3. Never run your batteries completely flat. 
  4. Don’t “top off” your batteries with frequent charging. 

How Often Should My Batteries Be Charged? 

Daily Users: Charge nightly. MK Battery recommends that you charge your batteries for a minimum of 8 hours per night and charge them 12 hours a night at least once weekly. 

Occasional Users: Charge your batteries before an outing and always after active use. 

How Should My Batteries Be Stored? 

It’s important to store your batteries properly to ensure that they don't become damaged and to maximize overall battery life. 

  • Always store your batteries fully charged. 
  • Check all batteries once a month and recharge as needed. 
  • When storing a power wheelchair or scooter for more than two weeks, charge the batteries and then disconnect them from the wheelchair or scooter.
  • If you store your equipment for more than two weeks, reconnect the batteries and charge for 12 hours prior to using the equipment. 
  • Avoid hot and cold extremes when storing. 

At What Temperature Do the Batteries Freeze? 

If you’re considering storing your MK Gel batteries outside for the winter, keep reading. MK Gel batteries can be stored in sub-freezing temperatures as low as -25°F without freezing as long as they are fully charged prior to storage. The self-discharge rate of fully charged batteries is so low in these conditions that they will not require charging for many months; however, if your Gel batteries are frozen … they will not always recover. 

To attempt recovery the following is the best plan of action: 

  1. Bring them inside and let them sit at room temperature for two days (they must reach 60°F). 
  2. Charge the batteries normally (follow standard safety procedures). 
  3. Run a capacity check either through a quality discharge tester or by operating your power wheelchair in a controlled environment. 
  4. If you don’t get enough run time then repeat steps 2 and 3. 

If you have more questions about your battery, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts! You can also find user manuals, guides, FAQs and more on our website here: https://www.mkbattery.com/resources/faqs