Pride Mobility JAZZY 1400 - Manual (Page 36)

36 www.pridemobility.com Jazzy 1400/Rev C/Sept02
I X . B A T T E R I E S A N D C H A R G I N G
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ
S
) ABOUT BATTERIES AND CHARGING
How does the charger work?
The battery charger takes the standard wall outlet voltage of 120 VAC (alternating current) and converts it to 24
VDC (direct current). The Jazzy 1400 batteries use direct current to run your power wheelchair. When the battery
voltage is low, the charger works harder to charge the battery. This is why the charging ammeter initially reads 5 or
more amps. As the battery voltage approaches full charge, the charger doesn’t work as hard to complete the
charging cycle. This explains why the charging ammeter drops as it approaches a full charge. When the battery is
fully charged, the amperage from the charger is nearly at zero. This is how the charger maintains a charge but does
not overcharge the battery.
Can I use a different battery charger?
You must use the charger supplied by Pride with the Jazzy 1400. It is the safest, most efficient tool to charge
the batteries. We do not recommend using other types of chargers, such as an automotive battery charger.
Your Jazzy 1400’s charger will not operate after the batteries have been discharged to nearly zero voltage.
If this happens, call your authorised Pride provider for assistance.
How often must I charge the batteries?
Many factors come into play when deciding how often to charge the batteries. You may use your Jazzy
1400 all day on a daily basis or you may not use it for weeks at a time.
n
Daily Use
If you use your Jazzy 1400 on a daily basis, charge the batteries as soon as you are finished. Your Jazzy
1400 will be ready each morning to give you a full day’s service. It is recommended that you charge the
batteries 8 to 14 hours after daily use. Do not charge the batteries for more than 24 hours at a charging cycle.
n
Infrequent Use
If you use your Jazzy 1400 infrequently (once a week or less), you should charge the batteries at least
once per week for 12 to 14 hours.
NOTE: Keep your batteries fully charged and avoid deeply discharging your batteries. Do not charge the
batteries for more than 24 hours at a charging cycle.
How can I get maximum range or distance per charge?
Rarely do you have an ideal driving situation such as smooth, flat, hard terrain with no wind, hills, or
curves. More often you are presented with hills, pavement cracks, uneven and loosely packed surfaces,
curves, and wind. All of these factors affect the distance or running time per battery charge. Below are a
few suggestions for obtaining the maximum range per charge:
n Always charge the batteries fully prior to your trip.
n Maintain 30–35 psi in pneumatic drive wheels.
n Plan your trip in advance to avoid inclines if possible.
n Limit baggage weight to essential items.
n Try to maintain an even speed and avoid stop-and-go driving.