Wheelchair scales are designed to provide safe, accurate weight measurements for patients who remain seated during weighing. Commonly used in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities, these scales reduce the need for patient transfers while improving comfort and safety. The wheelchair scales available on Hogentogler.com range from portable folding models to stationary, high-capacity platforms with integrated ramps and handrails. This guide explains how to choose the right wheelchair scale based on the capacities, readabilities, and features of the products Hogentogler offers.
TL;DR
• Wheelchair scales allow patients to be weighed while seated in a wheelchair
• Hogentogler wheelchair scales typically support capacities up to 800 lb (360 kg)
• Readability commonly ranges down to 0.1 lb or 0.05 kg, depending on model
• Available in portable, folding, and stationary platform designs
• Ideal for hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities
Body
Wheelchair scales are built around wide, low-profile platforms that accommodate most standard and bariatric wheelchairs. Many models feature integrated ramps, handrails, and safety rails to ensure stable access and positioning during weighing. When selecting a wheelchair scale, it’s important to consider capacity, readability, platform size, and workflow requirements.
Capacity and Readability
The wheelchair scales sold by Hogentogler are designed to handle a wide range of patient and wheelchair combinations.
Typical specifications include:
• Maximum capacities up to 800 lb (360 kg) on high-capacity and multifunction models
• Common capacity ratings in the 500 lb to 800 lb range
• Readability as fine as 0.1 lb or 0.05 kg, providing clinically useful resolution
Higher-capacity models are especially important for bariatric wheelchairs and powered mobility devices, while fine readability supports accurate weight tracking in clinical settings.
Platform Size and Accessibility
Platform dimensions vary by model, but all wheelchair scales feature enlarged weighing surfaces designed to accommodate wheelchairs safely. Many models include:
• Extra-wide platforms to support bariatric wheelchairs
• Single or dual ramp configurations for smooth entry and exit
• Low-profile designs that minimize effort when rolling onto the scale
Some scales also include stop barriers or edge guards to help position the wheelchair securely during weighing.
Portable vs. Stationary Designs
Hogentogler offers both portable and stationary wheelchair scales to match different facility needs. Portable and folding models are ideal for clinics that need to move equipment between rooms or store scales when not in use. Stationary wheelchair scales are typically installed in dedicated weighing areas and offer higher capacities, larger platforms, and added safety features such as handrails.
Tare, Pre-Tare, and Clinical Functions
Most wheelchair scales include tare and pre-tare functions, allowing the weight of the wheelchair to be deducted so only the patient’s net weight is recorded. Additional clinical features commonly include hold functions, BMI calculation, damping for patient movement, and unit switching between pounds and kilograms. Some models also offer connectivity options for EMR/EHR systems to streamline data recording.
Construction and Durability
Wheelchair scales are built with robust frames and durable platforms to withstand frequent use in medical environments. Heavy-duty construction, non-slip surfaces, and sealed electronics contribute to long-term reliability. Many models include transport wheels or handles for easier repositioning within a facility.
Typical Applications
Wheelchair scales are widely used in:
• Hospitals and medical centers
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy clinics
• Long-term care and assisted living facilities
• Outpatient and specialty care practices
They are particularly valuable for patients with limited mobility, balance concerns, or post-surgical restrictions.
FAQs
Do wheelchair scales require transferring the patient?
No. Wheelchair scales are designed to weigh patients while they remain seated in their wheelchair.
How is wheelchair weight accounted for?
Most models include tare or pre-tare functions that subtract the wheelchair’s weight automatically.
Are wheelchair scales suitable for bariatric patients?
Yes. Many models support capacities up to 800 lb and feature extra-wide platforms for bariatric wheelchairs.
Can wheelchair scales be moved easily?
Portable and folding models are designed for mobility, while stationary models are best for fixed locations.