If you’re in the market for a used power wheelchair, it’s important to know what you’re getting into before you buy. A used power wheelchair can be an affordable alternative to brand new, but as with anything else, there are risks involved when you’re buying secondhand. Buying without knowing exactly what you need can lead to disappointment down the road and, in some cases, if your used wheelchair doesn’t meet your needs and cause injury or impairment of function that couldn’t have been predicted before you bought it.
Buying a second-hand wheelchair is a great way to access mobility devices with distinctive features that your insurance might not cover. The following guide will walk you through everything you should know about buying a used power wheelchair.
Why Buying a Used Power Wheelchair Makes Sense?
When it comes to accessibility equipment, power wheelchairs are typically one of the more expensive pieces of equipment. While considering the ease of convenience they offer, they are worth the price tag. However, if you’re looking for something at a reasonable price, a pre-owned power wheelchair can cost at least 30% less than brand new, which is enough of a discount to make it worth considering.
It is worth noting that buying used doesn’t mean you’ll be missing out on features; today’s top-of-the-line models can be purchased secondhand. No matter how much money you want to spend, buying used is certainly worth considering, as long as you know what to look for before taking delivery of your wheelchair.
What are the Things That You Should Consider Before Buying a Used Wheelchair?
Understand Your Needs
If you need to buy a used power wheelchair, then one of your first priorities should be figuring out exactly what your needs are. In order to do that, you have to spend some time thinking about how it will actually be used and identifying any specific features that would benefit your personal situation. For instance, if you often use ramps on a daily basis, then it might be best to look for power wheelchairs that are heavy-duty and can handle certain types of terrains.
Consider the Condition of The Wheelchair
Unlike traditional mobility equipment, used power wheelchairs typically come with battery and tire options. As you might imagine, those options will dictate a wheelchair’s value and performance. If you’re looking to buy a used power wheelchair, it’s essential to consider how batteries and tires will affect your purchase price. You don’t want to be spending on a wheelchair that is on its last legs. Not only will it impede your independence, but it can also lead to severe injuries and accidents.
Make Sure the Wheelchair Has All Its Parts
If you’re buying from an authorized reseller like us, there’s little to worry about, but if you’re getting your used wheelchair directly from an individual or through eBay, it pays to make sure that all of its parts are accounted for. You can look for things that indicate potential problems with construction, like the electrical cords and power ports should be secure and in good condition. Seats should be firm; they shouldn’t sag or feel overly loose. If anything looks amiss or out of place, hold off on making a purchase until you can get some answers first.
There is a common misunderstanding that buying pre-owned mobility equipment is a gamble and can cost you more than you intend to save. While this paradigm cannot be dismissed altogether, you don’t have to worry about the authenticity or the quality of your mobility equipment as long as you’re buying it from a reliable dealer. If you’re looking for used power wheelchairs for sale, get in touch with us today!
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