Winter weather can be a challenge for those needing elevators and lifts for accessibility. Reliable elevators in public buildings are critical for those with mobility challenges, but for home accessibility, the safety and efficiency of residential elevators and lifts also are a major concern during inclement weather.
Vertical platform lifts situated on the exterior of homes and small office buildings are designed for outdoor use, including inclement weather and cold temperatures. Nevertheless, winter weather and extreme temperatures can lead to some issues for vertical platform lifts as well as for enclosed elevators that rely on more predictable temperatures within their elevator rooms. Some extra attention and pre-planning can ensure elevators and lifts are safely reachable and comfortable for those who need them and may help prevent those inconvenient breakdowns.
Winter safety for your vertical platform lift
Snow and cold should not stop you from having the freedom that comes with a vertical platform lift that provides safe access to your home. Keep the following in mind during winter weather:
- Regular maintenance by a professional is the best way to ensure your lift is ready to withstand freezing temperatures and potential ice and snow accumulation. Schedule a service call just before winter if possible.
- Be sure both landings are clear of snow and ice before using a vertical lift. Arrange for help if needed to shovel snow and keep ice melt on hand to ensure safety on decks and porches.
- Use a wire broom to clear snow and ice from your lift platform and entry ramp to maintain safety without scratching the lift.
- Check for snow accumulation beneath the lift and drifting against the exterior of the lift, both of which can impact safety sensors during operation.
If extreme weather is a concern for you or your loved ones using a vertical platform lift, consider options for installation inside a garage or covered area to at least reduce the accumulation of ice and snow. For extreme temperature concerns, some outdoor lifts also include optional packages to withstand temperatures as low as -20 degrees.
Tips for lift and elevator winter maintenance
Even enclosed elevators can be vulnerable to extreme weather because elevator rooms are frequently on exterior walls and excluded from the climate control provided for the rest of the building. Whatever the size or style of your elevator or lift, consider the following tips to ensure yours operates efficiently:
- The optimal temperature for hydraulic oil to operate an elevator effectively is between 45 and 90 degrees. If possible, install and maintain some climate control in the machine room or enclosed space that houses the elevator. Otherwise, the addition of a tank heater will keep oil in the reservoir at an appropriate temperature.
- Whenever possible, run a hydraulic elevator a few times prior to use to warm up the oil and ensure smooth operation.
- Arrange for inspection of weather stripping and seals that protect equipment from cold weather and wind.
- Keep guide rails running smoothly with a lubricant designed to perform in extreme temperatures.
- Protect against flooding and standing water beneath and around elevators and lifts to prevent corrosion of cables.
- Have backup power and/or a hydraulic battery to ensure safety in the event of a power outage.
If you need a professional to help with your home elevator or lift, or you are looking for a high quality elevator package for residential or commercial use in Kent, Ohio, or the surrounding area, contact Handel & Son Elevator Lift. For more information about residential and commercial elevators, including dumbwaiters and material lifts, incline and vertical platform lifts, and stairlifts from Handel & Son, click here.