Wheelchair powerpacks have been available for many years and have become far more popular in recent years due to their improved output and overall performance. These powerpacks convert manual wheelchairs and are relatively simple pieces of equipment that allow you to motorise your wheelchair. Thanks to huge improvements in battery technology these are now fantastic additions to a manual wheelchair and open up a new realm of travel and freedom with longer ranges and fewer charges.

Wheelchair powerpacks are made up of 3 main parts, including the controller, the motor or motors and the battery. Battery’s are becoming smaller lighter with more available powerful improving the scope and performance making them equal to a purpose build electric wheelchair when it comes to pulling power and range.

The powerpack controllers are available to with the the user or the attendant and occasionally both. The controller used by the wheelchair user can be fitted to either arm rest. The controller available to the attendant is fitted to one of the wheelchair push handles allowing the attendant to control the speed and direction of the wheelchair. These controls can be used in conjunction with attendant brakes where appropriate.

If the wheelchair user has limited dexterity in their hands then an attendant controller may be the most suitable form. This allows greater and safer control of the wheelchair without limiting the users freedom.

Types of wheelchair powerpack

Single wheel or solo powerpacks

These are the most basic form and have a single drive wheel. These are typically suited to conditions which are not too hilly and where the user weight is under 18 stone. A single wheel provides less grip than twin wheels and is therefore less able to apply power due to the smaller footprint of the tyre.

See the TGA single wheel powerpack here

Duo or twin wheel powerpacks

As their name suggests, these wheelchair powerpacks have two drive wheels sharing the work of propelling the wheelchair. This allows them to transfer more power making them more suitable for heavier users and more demanding conditions such as stepper hills. Some of the twin wheel powerpacks also offer a reverse gear that can help manoeuvre the wheelchair in tight spaces.

See the TGA twin wheel powerpack here

Heavy duty bariatric powerpacks

These are designed to deal with heavier loads. Essentially they offer increased power and performance. This will help with larger heavier users and their uprated wheelchairs which typically weigh more. These are generally 24 volt powerpacks and pack more power than the 18 volt versions.

See the TGA heavy duty bariatric wheelchair powerpack here

Other considerations when buying a wheelchair powerpack:

Speed
when buying a wheelchair powerpack are the speed capabilities which are generally between 3mph and 4 mph which is adequate.

Range
Although most powerpack manufacturers quote a range capability, this is affected by many factors and should be considered as a guide only. A smooth and level road is going to provide a far grater range than a rough track on an incline. Please consider this when you are looking to buy a wheelchair powerpack.

Fitting
In general terms most wheelchair powerpacks will fit most manual wheelchairs. It is worth checking however with the sales team of the manufacturer to ensure that you are marrying up suitable components. Once fitted many users will leave the powerpack in place. However if you are likely to want to transport the wheelchair frequently then it would be worth looking for one that is quick to fit.

Charging
Most powerpacks can be left in place while charging. Some models have removable batteries which might be more suitable in some circumstances. It is worth thinking about where you will charge and how easy it is to access a suitable plug.

Watch a video on the fitting of a standard wheelchair powerpack

To view our entire range of wheelchair powerpacks please click here. If you require any further advice then please feel free to call us on 0800 633 5377