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Your Comprehensive Guide to Buying Wheelchair Parts
Diving into the world of wheelchair parts can initially seem like a daunting task. After all, not all wheelchairs are built the same, and not having the right parts on hand when you need them could leave you stuck.
That’s why, if you own a wheelchair, you should feel comfortable knowing what you need from your spare parts. With that in mind, we’ve put together this guide to help you understand why spares are so valuable and how you should go about buying them.
The Importance of Having Spare Wheelchair Parts
Over time, components can wear out or malfunction. When this happens, it’s important to replace them promptly. This ensures that your wheelchair remains efficient and safe to use, while you can stay on the move. Furthermore, opting to repair with wheelchair spares instead of replacing the entire chair can be a more eco-friendly choice. This way, you’re not only saving money but also contributing to environmental sustainability.
However, it’s important to have the awareness of when you should fix individual issues with replacement parts, and when it’s a lost cause and a whole new chair is required. If your wheelchair has taken a certain amount of damage (whether that’s through normal wear-and-tear or an accident of some sort), then you may find it easier to replace the wheelchair as a whole.
That often happens as a result of not fixing the problems as they appear, though. Just like how car owners will often have a spare tire to hand, if you have spares for the most important parts of your wheelchair, you’ll be covered as soon as an issue appears – instead of having to wait for products to arrive.
Identifying The Spare Parts For Wheelchairs That You May Need
The first step in your journey to getting new wheelchair parts is determining what you need. This can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re new to using a wheelchair. But rest assured, it’s simpler than you might think.
For example, if your ride feels less smooth than before, it might be an indication that you need new tires. If the brakes aren’t working as effectively as they should, they could need a replacement.
Comfort is another critical factor, whether you’re using a foldable wheelchair or something like an Upwalker. If you find that you’re not as comfortable in your wheelchair as you’d like to be, you might require a different kind of armrest or cushion.
Prolonged discomfort can quickly turn into aches and genuine issues, so don’t grit your teeth and try to put up with the pain; try to address these solutions as soon as possible. This way, you can ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable ride every time you use your wheelchair, while being confident it’s still functional.
Adjustable armrests will make your arms more comfortable, but can also make it easier and safer to get in and out of your wheelchair. Something like anti-tip wheels may not make you feel twice as comfortable, but from a function perspective, they can be invaluable. It’s all about the balance of function and comfort.
Conducting regular checks on your wheelchair can also help you spot any parts that look worn or damaged. Early detection of any issues can prevent more expensive fixes down the line and this proactive approach can help extend the lifespan of your wheelchair by years.
It’s on you to decide whether what you’re buying is a replacement for today, or a spare for the future. We’d recommend always having the latter on hand at your home.
What To Look For In A Wheelchair Spares Provider
After identifying what parts you need, the next step is to find a reliable vendor. The quality of parts can greatly vary, and this can significantly impact how your wheelchair functions. That’s why choosing a vendor that offers high-quality parts is essential. For example, at Webster Wheelchairs, we offer a selection of top-notch wheelchair parts that are designed to deliver exceptional performance, but importantly, provide durability.
Moreover, the level of customer service a wheelchair parts shop provides is also important. A good vendor will assist you in making the right choices, answer any queries you may have, and provide you with the support you need throughout the buying process. After all, just because you might use a wheelchair all day, it doesn’t mean you should be expected to know the minutiae of how it works.
It’s also important to choose a vendor that offers reliable after-sales support. Things can sometimes go wrong, and when they do, having a shop that stands by its products and is willing to provide the necessary support is a huge plus. That’s why we offer a 12-month guarantee on our products, after all.
Whether you have concerns about installing your new wheelchair spares, maintaining a folding rollator, or you have any questions at all about our products, our team is always happy to help.
Why Compatibility Is So Important
Once you’ve found a reliable vendor, the next step is to ensure that the parts you’re considering are compatible with your wheelchair. Not all parts are designed to fit all models, so compatibility is a critical factor. If the parts you choose are not compatible with your wheelchair, it can lead to performance issues and even potential damage.
The right provider should offer a wide range of spare parts for wheelchairs, so no matter what wheelchair you have, they have compatible options for you. The customer service team should also be trained to help you find the right product, not just the most expensive one. It’s about giving you all the information you need to make the right decision that works for your wheelchair, so you don’t find yourself looking for parts again in just a few weeks’ time.
Catering to Your Unique Wheelchair Requirements
Finally, when selecting wheelchair parts, it’s important to consider your unique needs. This involves considering your lifestyle, daily routines, and specific mobility requirements. For example, if you frequently travel outdoors, you might need sturdier tires that can withstand different terrains. If you use your wheelchair predominantly indoors, softer, smoother tires might be more appropriate!
If you tend to spend most of your day in the wheelchair, then – as we said before – you need to prioritise comfort, too. You shouldn’t dread spending long hours in your chair. Thus, the elements that contribute to comfort, such as cushions, armrests, and footrests, should be chosen carefully. Not only will they make you feel more comfy, but they can give you valuable support as well.
At Webster Wheelchairs, our diverse selection of wheelchair spares means we can cater to each individual’s needs. We understand that each wheelchair user has unique requirements, and we strive to provide products that meet these requirements.
Wrapping Up
It’s better to have something and not need it, than to need something and not have it. This is the logic that all wheelchair users should have when it comes to spare parts.
A broken armrest or a burst tyre could mean you can’t move anywhere until a replacement arrives. By understanding the various components of a wheelchair, knowing your specific needs, and keeping spare parts at home for when you need them, you can successfully protect yourself from any shocks or surprises that could derail your plans in no time at all.
If that sounds complicated and you think you’ll need a hand, our team at Webster Wheelchairs are standing by. Not only do we have a wide range of products like stowaway parts and Webster Lite 2 parts, but we also offer fast and free UK delivery! Take a look for yourself and contact us if you need any help at all; your mobility is our concern.
