Owner`s manual
18
6 . B AT T E R Y C H A R G I N G A N D C A R E
BATTERIES
◆ The Sunfire Plus EC Power Wheelchair uses two long- lasting, 12 volt, deep-cycle batteries. These
batteries are sealed and maintenance free. Since they are sealed, there is no need to check the
electrolyte (fluid) level. Deep-cycle batteries are designed to handle a longer and deeper discharge.
Though they are similar in appearance to automotive batteries, they are not interchangeable.
Automotive batteries are not designed to handle a long, deep discharge and are unsafe for use in
powered power wheelchairs.
◆ These batteries are maintenance free and there is no need to refill with water.
◆ Do not expose the battery to temperatures below 10C or above 50C when charging or storing
the power wheelchair. Under the above temperature range can cause the battery either to freeze or
overheat, causing damage and shortening its life.
▇ Use proper batteries
◆ Your power wheelchair operates on two 12 volt batteries.
◆ They should be U1 size with minimum of 36ampere hour rating . Only deep cycle sealed case
construction batteries should be used in the power wheelchair.
◆ When you buy a replacement, insist on a deep cycle sealed case. Do not use any other type.
CHARGING THE BATTERIES
The battery charger is essential in providing long battery life. Located underneath the utility tray, it is
designed to optimize your Sunfire Plus EC performance by charging safely, quickly and easily. The
power wheelchair amp meter and charger plug are located on the utility tray for easy viewing. The
Amp meter indicates the rate of charge being administered to fully recharge the batteries. It is also a
good indication of whether or not the charger is working. The Amp meter and the charger are only
functional when the charger power cord is plugged into a wall outlet.
▇ To charge the batteries using the onboard charger
◆ Position the rear of Sunfire Plus EC close to a standard wall outlet.
◆ Be certain the controller power is turned off and the freewheel levers are in the engaged position.
◆ Slide the cover of charger plug.
◆ Extend the charger power cord and plug it into the wall outlet.
◆ The Amp meter indicates how much charge is needed to fully charge the batteries. Wait about a
minute for the charger to warm up. The Amp meter may move as high as 3 amps, then gradually
move back down to 0 amps as the batteries charge.
We recommended you charge the batteries for 8 to 14 hours. As the batteries charge, the Amp
meter needle slowly drops to zero. When the batteries are fully charged, the needle vibrates on or
near the zero mark on the Amp meter scale.
◆ When the batteries are fully charged, unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
◆ Replace the cover of charger plug.
Warning!
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds.
Wash hands after handling!