Proper use of equipment is always important around our homes or buildings, and this is doubly true when this equipment is involved in assisting people with movement or other basic daily needs. Wheelchair lift products are great examples here – ensuring equipment is being used and maintained properly is vital for these products, which often play a key role in movement assistance for older people and those with varying medical conditions or injuries.

At A+ Elevators & Lifts, we’re proud to offer the very best commercial and residential wheelchair lifts, home elevators and other mobility products to varying clients and their needs. We also provide regular expertise and assistance to clients on how to use and care for their lifts and other products, ensuring that they’re operating safely and effectively for their users. Here are some of the most common use or maintenance errors we see with wheelchair lift products, plus how to steer clear of them and keep your equipment (or that of a loved one) in great shape.

Weight Detected Outside Lift Boundaries

One of the most common operator-based issues we see with wheelchair lifts comes from a misunderstanding of how these items work. Wheelchair lifts are built with what are known as “lift boundaries” – these are the pre-set weight limits that are determined by the manufacturer. If a wheelchair or its occupant exceed these boundaries, then the lift will not activate and could cause serious damage to itself or other components of your home/building.

To avoid this issue, always ensure your wheelchair is within the lift boundaries specified for your particular model of lift – if in doubt, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for further advice about this.

Non-Level Surface

For wheelchair lifts being used in vehicles, another common issue we see is the surface of the lift not being level. This can cause problems when the lift tries to operate, and can lead to it malfunctioning or even becoming stuck in a particular position.

To combat this issue, make sure that you only use wheelchair lifts on surfaces that are as close to level as possible – any noticeable incline should be avoided. It’s also important to inspect the wheelchair lift for signs of wear or damage before using it, as this could create further issues with alignment and stability during use.

Lift is Not Turned On

It may seem overly simplistic to some people, but you’d be surprised how often this happens – many operators forget to turn the lift on or check that it’s connected properly before use. This can lead to all sorts of issues, from the lift not activating at all, to malfunctioning or running incorrectly during operating cycles.

To avoid this issue, always double-check your wheelchair lift is turned on and/or connected before using it. This also applies to any related items, such as power cords, remote controls or other components.

User Impatience

It’s a simple reality: For some people using a wheelchair lift for the first time, frustration or impatience can easily set in if they don’t understand the process properly. This often leads to people attempting to force their way through the lift operation, which is a huge risk and could cause damage or injury.

The best way to avoid this issue is by ensuring that all users of your wheelchair lift understand how it works and what the expected use patterns will be. Be prepared for any issues you might encounter, and make sure to have the contact details of a professional available in case any further assistance is needed.

Not Following Operator Guidelines

Wheelchair lifts will come with detailed instructions and operator guidelines from the manufacturer. These are designed to ensure that your lift remains safe and operates correctly – not following these instructions can lead to damage or other issues with your wheelchair lift.

It’s therefore important to make sure you have a good understanding of how your lift works, as well as any safety features associated with it. Read through the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and make sure to keep any relevant paperwork in a safe place.

Allowing Broken Parts to Sit

While it’s rare, certain parts of a wheelchair lift may become damaged during regular operation. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as wear and tear over time or even due to user error.

In the event that any part becomes broken or worn down, it’s essential to take action promptly – leaving broken parts in place on your lift can cause serious safety issues, or even further damage down the line.

Avoiding Standard Maintenance

Finally, it’s important to remember that all wheelchair lifts require regular maintenance and servicing. This should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, as failing to do so can cause significant problems with your lift.

Make sure you keep up-to-date on any recommended maintenance protocols, such as lubrication or checkups – these can help avoid bigger issues down the line.

In summary, it’s essential to take extra care when using a wheelchair lift in and around your home or building. Pay attention to potential hazards such as uneven surfaces, user impatience and broken parts, and make sure you follow all operator guidelines and maintenance protocols for your particular lift. Doing so will help ensure that you get the most out of your wheelchair lift, and enjoy a safe and hassle-free experience.

For more here, or to learn about any of our wheelchair lifts or other mobility products, speak to our team at A+ Elevators & Lifts today.