Lift Engineering and Construction Industry

Jill Pinciotti asked:


There are many different types of stair lifts available from a variety of different companies. When deciding to buy a stair lift, there are a few key things to consider.

Safety should be top priority for any stair lift. When looking for a unit, be sure that it has plenty of safety features and that it meets ASME standards. Some companies provide safety sensors to prevent the stair lift from hitting something in the way, as well as failsafe mechanisms which prevent operation until the seat is in the correct position. Always review safety features of the different models provided.

Always make sure that you are buying from a reputable company. Check that the company is a member of the Better Business Bureau or the Better Business Bureau Online. Also, check that the retailer offers a secure shopping cart on their website if purchasing online.

Stair lifts are available in both AC and DC units. DC stairlifts are equipped with a battery backup and are generally a little more expensive than an equivalent AC stairlift. If you live in an area where the power goes out frequently it would be beneficial to spend the extra money get the DC unit.

Most customers shopping for a stair lift probably do not want a model that will require a lot of maintenance. Always inquire with the dealer or manufacturer as to what type of maintenance is involved with the particular stair lift you are looking at. A quality stair lift should be reliable and require very little maintenance. If you are installing in a public area such as a church or community center, make sure that the unit you are buying has a top and bottom call switch. This makes it convenient for multiple users to use the stair lift.

When purchasing online, make sure that the warranty for the specific model is clearly stated. If the warranty is confusing or there are parts that are unclear, call the dealer directly and clarify the details before purchasing.

Remember that value is not just the selling price but a combination of price, quality, service, support, reliability and warranty. Always try to buy a new stair lift, as you get the full warranty, full support as well as making sure that the stair lift is the correct length for your stair case. To ensure that you have the best buying experience, be sure to speak with a company representative to make sure you have the best product for your needs.



platform lifts

Robert asked:

Many people who are elderly, suffer from arthritis, or muscular related diseases use mobility devices like mobility scooters and wheelchairs. These types of mobility aids can greatly increase mobility and the areas that are accessible. These types of devices can be used to travel many different types of terrains, but they are almost never outfitted to travel over the stairs. In these instances a vertical platform lift can be installed to help with this problem.

Vertical platform lifts are often called porch lifts because they are commonly installed on the front steps of houses. They, using a small platform, support the person and their personal mobility device and move them up and down the stairs. Most can support over 500 pounds, which is generally enough to transport 2 individuals and one mobility scooter at a time. There are several units available commercially and residentially that can support up to 750 pounds.

Porch lifts can be installed fairly easily. They typically only require a solid base of concrete or wood and are easily secured to this base. Depending on the lifting height and the model of porch lift, it may be necessary to also secure the unit to the wall of the stairs. Some porch lifts are portable and can be moved easily and in a matter of minutes. These portable vertical platform lifts are commonly used at schools and in churches. A portable unit typically has a lower lifting height and also may not be able to support as much weight as a non-portable unit.

Vertical platform lifts provide a very valuable service for those who use mobility scooters, electric power wheelchairs, or other personal mobility vehicles. It can open your home up with the rest of the world, or ensure that your business is accessible to those who are mobility challenged.

platform lifts