Everything There Is To Know About Wheelchair Lifts
A wheelchair lift is a powered platform designed to elevate a wheelchair user over obstacles like steps. Wheelchair lifts can be installed outside or indoors, and buses and other forms of transportation can employ specific models.
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A residential wheelchair lift can be built within a home using a variety of techniques, or it can be safely mounted or installed outside the home to go from ground level to the entrance.
Wheelchair Lift Types
Wheelchair platform lifts come in two main varieties: inclined platform lifts and vertical platform lifts.
Lifts with inclined platforms are designed to traverse the steps by adjusting to their inclination. An inclined lift is comparable to a stair lift in this regard, except it has a wheelchair-accessible platform. Additionally, inclined platform elevators that are specially made for curving or twisting steps are available. Usually, they are utilized in public or commercial structures.
Depending on the available area, a vertical platform lift can be placed next to or away from stairs because it glides straight up and down. This kind of lift can be fitted into a built-in hoistway within a house, or it can be provided as a normal unenclosed lift with an enclosure built in at the manufacturer.
The majority of vertical platform lifts may be put outdoors, and depending on the temperature, certain incline platform lifts can also be used outside. A porch lift or deck lift are common names for a vertical platform lift for a house. Another name for it is a “VPL,” which stands for vertical platform lift.
The Operation of a Wheelchair Lift
Wheelchair lifts are required to have continuous pressure functioning, which means that in order for the lift to move, the user must continuously push a button; if the button is not pressed, the lift will stop. This is a wheelchair platform lift safety feature.
Drive systems for wheelchair platform lifts come in a variety of configurations. A screw drive raises and lowers a platform by rotating a big screw and nut using a motor.
To move the platform, a hydraulic drive circulates hydraulic fluid in and out of a cylinder that has a reservoir. When compared to screw drives, hydraulic drive lifts are recognized for offering a quieter and more comfortable ride. Their construction is more expensive.
Typically, wire haul, rope sprocket, or rack and pinion systems power inclined platform lifts. These mechanisms raise and lower the platform along the rail that goes along the staircase.
FAQs for Wheelchair Platform Lifts
What is the operation of a wheelchair platform lift?
A vertical platform lift is made up of three primary parts:
1. A lift tower equipped with a ball screw or hydraulic driving system
2. A solid-sided platform that travels vertically (up or down) and is attached to the lift tower
3. The equipment is operated via key driven controls.
How far is a platform lift able to travel?
Usually between four and ten feet for residential areas. Certain commercial units, when constructed in a hoistway, have a 14′ travel capacity.
What powers wheelchair platform lifts?
Our vertical platform lifts are powered by standard AC current, but you may also choose to upgrade to a DC battery-powered motor that runs continuously. Selecting the battery-operated device might prove to be beneficial as it offers many “round trips” in case of a power disruption. In the event of an electrical outage, a platform lift powered by AC will not operate.
What powers wheelchair platform lifts?
Our vertical platform lifts are powered by standard AC current, but you may also choose to upgrade to a DC battery-powered motor that runs continuously. Selecting the battery-operated device might prove to be beneficial as it offers many “round trips” in case of a power disruption. In the event of an electrical outage, a platform lift powered by AC will not operate.
Does the installation of a wheelchair platform lift need site preparation?
For a wheelchair platform lift to be installed and used properly and safely, at least a concrete pad must be present. Installing the landing gate and providing electricity to the lift could also need further effort.
What is the price of a platform lift?
The wheelchair platform lift’s price will vary based on the type, configuration, site preparation, permissions, and extra safety features. Prices often fall between $12,000 and $35,000. Get in touch with your neighborhood Lifeway Mobility to schedule a meeting with one of our accessibility specialists and obtain a free quotation. After evaluating the space and your accessibility requirements, we will offer a suggested solution and a cost.
What makes a wheelchair lift preferable to a wheelchair ramp?
A wheelchair lift is a good substitute for a ramp when it comes to giving people safe access to a house or structure. A wheelchair lift is a preferable option when there is limited space or when the access barrier is higher than a particular height.
Do wheelchair lifts withstand bad weather?
Our wheelchair platform lifts have a unique covering that shields the device from the elements and comes with weather-resistant controls. There is also an alternative cold-weather package available for areas with lower temperatures.
What distinguishes a Vertical Platform Lift (VPL) from a Porch Lift or a Wheelchair Lift?
No. The same kind of product is referred to by the phrases wheelchair lift, porch lift, and vertical platform lift (abbreviated VPL). Because this kind of lift is perfect for giving access from ground level to a porch or deck in situations where a ramp is impractical, the term “porch lift” is frequently used.