Mobile scooters enable their users to maintain their independence and a renewed sense of freedom. A common question, however, is how much does it cost to run them?
In this guide, we’ve used the average cost of electricity per Kilowatt hour (kWh) in the UK to estimate exactly how much charging your mobility scooter will set you back weekly, monthly, and yearly. The cost efficiency of your scooter may surprise you!
Quick Summary: Our calculations show that the cost to charge a mobility scooter is roughly £14 – £28 per year, depending on the size of your mobility scooter’s battery. This is based on the assumption you’ll be charging your scooter twice a week for roughly 8 – 14 hours per charge (i.e. overnight).
Here we take a closer look at the charging timelines, frequency, and, ultimately, the financial implications attached to charging a mobility scooter.
Read next: How To Store Your Mobility Scooter Securely
How Often Should I Charge My Scooter & For How Long?
The duration needed to fully charge a mobility scooter’s battery typically varies between 8 and 14 hours. However, this is largely dependent on the specific model and battery capacity. The exact specifications will be available in your scooter’s manual or from the manufacturer.
An average mobility scooter user will generally need to charge their scooter twice a week to keep your mobility scooter charged up sufficiently for day-to-day use.
How Much Does It Cost To Charge a Mobility Scooter?
Let’s assume a scenario to calculate an average cost, keeping in mind the UK’s average electricity rate of 24.50 pence per kWh (1 April – 30 June 2024).
The battery size commonly used in road legal Mobility scooters is 50 amp and approximately 12 volts, which would give a mobility scooter an approximate kWh of 0.6kWh.
This means that the average cost to charge a mobility scooter breaks down to:
- Weekly: £0.29
- Monthly: £1.17
- Annually: £14.11
For a large battery, for example at 24volts and 50Ah, the costs come to:
- Weekly: £0.58
- Monthly: £2.35
- Annually: £28.22
Your Costs May Vary
It’s worth noting that, while we’ve calculated an average here, the actual cost can vary based on model, usage, and electric tariff fluctuations.
However, with these costs as a benchmark, not only are mobility scooters a vital lifeline but also a remarkably cost-efficient way to get around! With prices like that, why would you travel any other way?!
Mobility Scooter Battery Life Expectancy
A mobility scooter’s battery life expectancy will typically be between 18 months and two years, although this can depend on how often you use it, the weather conditions it is stored in (for example, if your scooter is stored in cold temperatures often), your mobility scooter’s age, and more.
Find out more about How Long Mobility Scooter Batteries Last.
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Tips For Charging Your Mobility Scooter
To ensure the longevity and efficiency of your adult mobility scooter’s battery, adhere to the following refined charging guidelines:
- Utilise the Recommended Charger: Always use the charger provided with your scooter or one that the manufacturer has endorsed to maintain your battery’s longevity.
- Regular Charging Post-Use: It’s advisable to charge your mobility scooter after every use, irrespective of the battery level. This approach helps preserve the battery’s charge capacity and prevents complete depletion, which can be detrimental to its longevity.
- Keep Your Scooter Ventilated: Always charge your scooter in an area with ample ventilation to avoid overheating, which may harm the battery and reduce its lifespan.
- Avoid Overcharging: Disconnect the charger once the battery reaches full capacity. Overcharging can diminish the battery’s lifespan and may pose a risk to the scooter’s operational integrity.
- Proper Battery Storage: If you’re not planning to use the mobility scooter for a while, store the battery in a cool and dry environment. To maintain battery health, charge it at least once a month during periods of extended storage.
- Maintain a Clean Charging Port: Regularly inspect and clean the charging port to remove any dirt or debris. A clean port ensures effective charging and prevents potential connectivity issues.
- Regular Inspections: Periodically examine the battery and charger for any signs of wear, damage, or deterioration. Should you encounter any concerns, cease using the scooter immediately and seek advice from the manufacturer or a qualified repair technician.
By implementing these enhanced practices, you can significantly contribute to the optimal performance and longevity of your adult mobility scooter’s battery, ensuring it remains reliable and efficient for your mobility needs.
