With the warmest season here and summer heatwaves occurring more regularly, knowing how to properly maintain your mobility scooter in the higher temperatures is important. Caring for your vehicle will help it last longer and ensure it’s performing optimally throughout the summer months. If you’re going to be travelling more or simply want to get outside and make the most of the sunshine, use these tips to make sure your scooter stays running smoothly.
Battery
Hot weather can affect your mobility scooter’s battery life, as it causes the batteries to work harder. This means they may not be as efficient as usual, so be aware of this before heading out on longer journeys. If your scooter is in direct sunlight for too long, there is a risk of the batteries overheating. Therefore, it’s recommended to keep your vehicle stored in a cool, shaded area if possible. Ensure your battery is topped up by regularly charging it – this is better to do during cooler hours of the day, for example earlier in the morning or at night to avoid overheating.
Protection
Direct sunlight can be damaging to your mobility scooter’s plastic parts and also cause the paintwork to fade. Try to store your vehicle in a cool area out of the sunlight, or you can use a protective cover. There are UV resistant options which are also a great way to keep everything protected. If you have a canopy or covered area at your home, this is the perfect place to put your mobility scooter.
Tyre Pressure
You should check your tyres regularly in all seasons, however in summer this is particularly necessary as heat can cause the air inside pneumatic tyres to expand. This could mean your scooter wheels become overinflated which can be dangerous. Ensure the tyres stay the pressure recommended by the manufacturer. As well as this, it’s useful to give your tyres a once over every time you use your scooter – this is just to check for any punctures, cracks or anything else that could affect you. A good tip is to carry a puncture kit with you on journeys to make sure you’re covered if anything does happen when out and about.
Keep Everything Clean
In the summer months dirt and grime can build-up on your scooter, especially if you’re taking it out more regularly. Take the time to clean off your mobility scooter, this can also give you an opportunity to inspect it for any faults. From time to time, a deep clean can be beneficial to prevent dirt building up in areas that can affect the mechanics of the vehicle.
Servicing
Even with consistent maintenance, regular servicing carried out by professionals are key to ensuring any issues are dealt with. This can prevent more serious problems from occurring, keeping your scooter running at its best for longer!
At East Coast Mobility, we also provide expert repair and maintenance services that will keep your mobility equipment in top condition. This includes routine services as well as any unexpected faults that come your way, so you can keep moving safely and efficiently. You can browse our range of mobility scooters, or speak to a member of our team for help.