To help make sure you install the right wheelchair lift for your needs, here are factors you should consider when installing one.
For people who have disabilities or have injured themselves, wheelchairs are perfect for giving them the mobility needed to get around the house. In cases for those who will need this kind of help regularly, it can be helpful to install a wheelchair lift in your abode. To help make sure you install the right wheelchair lift for your needs, here are factors you should consider when installing one.
First of All, How Does a Wheelchair Lift Function?
A wheelchair lift isn’t quite the same as your traditional type of elevator. Wheelchair lifts tend to be powered with the help of a screw drive or a hydraulic drive. It’s the drive system that will either raise or lower your lift’s platform to your desired stop.
It’s ideal to install a wheelchair lift if it only goes up a few steps. Typically, these elevators cannot travel further than fourteen feet vertically.
Lastly, there’s a difference in the controls that traditional elevators versus wheelchair lifts have. For traditional elevators, people who use them can get to their destination just by pressing a single button. Wheelchair lifts, on the other hand, require the buttons to be depressed the entire time while the unit is in use. Otherwise, the lift stops entirely.
Consider the Size and Type of Wheelchair You Have
Think about what kind of wheelchair you have. Some wheelchairs require another person to push from behind, while others allow the user of the wheelchair to move it using their arms to propel the wheelchair forwards or backwards. The size of your wheelchair should also be taken into account, and based on the type and size of wheelchair you have, the dimensions of your wheelchair lift may change.
You also have to keep in mind that you might get a new wheelchair in the future, so the lift you install should be bought in anticipation of future needs as well.
Home Elevator Configuration
You want your wheelchair lift to fit into your home nicely. On top of that, it should also be aesthetically pleasing and flow with the style of your home. Along with fitting the lift into your home, you’ll also want to make sure your wheelchair can fit comfortably inside of your lift.
The entrance should have enough space to allow your wheelchair to get through with ease. Your lift’s platform should allow not just the wheelchair to fit, but also an additional person if the wheelchair requires someone to push from behind. Lastly, to make your lift as convenient as possible for wheelchair users, occupants should be able to enter the elevator through one side, and exit through the opposite side, so they do not have to back on or off the unit.
Preferred Elevator: We’re On the Up and Up!
For over a decade, Preferred Elevator has served residents in Central Maryland, Baltimore, and Washington, DC. You can rely on our experienced home installation team and quality products.
For our commercial elevator clients, we also provide annual inspections of your equipment to adhere to standards established by the state of Maryland. During these inspections, we make sure that your commercial mobility product is functioning correctly and efficiently. We’ll also go over all safety devices and customized features offered within your plan!
Get in touch with us! Our business hours are Monday-Friday 8 am -5 pm. Reach us by phone at 410-238-2555, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
