Wheelchair Platform Lift Buyer’s Guide

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For wheelchair users, navigating vertical platforms or stairs can be something of an impossibility, but this shouldn’t mean that they are excluded from being able to access certain areas of the home or a public space.

The good news is that a wheelchair platform lift can be a viable and practical solution for this problem, yet there are a lot of things to consider before installing this type of equipment.

Whether you are planning to purchase a wheelchair platform lift for a domestic or commercial property you need to be sure that all of these factors are considered.

In this guide, we will be looking at what a wheelchair platform lift is and how it works, as well as exploring the things that should be taken into account when purchasing one.

Wheelchair Platform Lifts Comparison Chart

Ez-Access Passport Vertical Platform Lift

Trus-T-Lift 750 Vertical Platform Lift

AmerGlide Titan Incline Platform Lift

Weight Capacity

750 lbs

750 lbs

500 lbs

Max Travel Distance

52" or 72"

28" – 168"

16" – 40"

Platform Size

50.75 (L) x 36 (W) or 59.75 (L) x 38 (W)

50.75" (L) x 36" (W), 59.75" (L) x 38" (W)

25" (L) x 36" (W), 27.5" (L) x 36" (W), 27.5" (L) x 36" (W)

Platform Type

Straight, turn

Straight, turn

Straight

Lift Speed (FPM)

10 ft/min

8 ft/min

14 ft/min

Powered By?

DC powered, battery powered (20 complete cycles)

DC powered

DC powered, battery powered

Safety Features

Obstruction detector, emergency stop

Non-skid platform, emergency manual operation

Pressure controls, obstruction detector, emergency stop

Price

What is a Wheelchair Platform Lift?

Incline platform wheelchair lift

A wheelchair platform lift is a device that is designed to assist wheelchair users in accessing platforms or floors that are higher than the ground level. There are two types of platform lifts – one which is installed on a staircase and rises at an incline and another which is designed to lift the user vertically.

In contrast, a home elevator is a product that is installed in the home to aid those with limited mobility in accessing all floors. This is similar in design to an elevator that you would see in a commercial building or apartment block, for example. It is important to distinguish the two solutions from one another in order to avoid confusion.

Whereas a home elevator might take the user over larger distances, a wheelchair platform lift is designed to move the user over a much shorter distance.

Benefits of a Platform Lift

Using a wheelchair platform lift can be extremely beneficial to people who struggle to access certain areas of the home. There are many ways in which these pieces of equipment are advantageous from easy installation to their compact nature, they are, without a doubt, a device that will make life easier.

An Alternative to a Wheelchair Ramp

Wheelchair ramps are certainly an excellent choice for inclines that are not overly steep but these would pose a danger if installed on a much steeper incline. Therefore, a wheelchair platform lift makes a more practical solution. Furthermore, if the access required is of a vertical nature, a ramp would be completely impractical and impossible to use.

In some buildings, there may not be the space to install a ramp even if the incline is not very steep. For this reason, using a wheelchair platform lift is preferable thanks to their compact nature.

Easy to Install

In a similar way that fitting a stairlift, for example, is easy and does not require any costly or invasive building work, a wheelchair platform lift is simple and easy to install.

There will be no need for permanent changes to the structure of the building so this might be very beneficial if you are only going to be remaining in your home for a short period of time or only require the equipment on a temporary basis.

Takes Up Minimal Space

By design, platform lifts are extremely compact and convenient. This is excellent for those who are limited on space but also a great solution in general as the lift will not pose as an obstacle for other stair users.

Many wheelchair platform lifts can be folded away against the wall when they are not in use so are not only great space savers but also pose no risk of tripping or colliding with them.

Increased Independence

The lives of many wheelchair users are a struggle because they rely on other people to help them get to various parts of the house, or if there are stairs to tackle outside, they may even rely on others to leave the home.

By installing a wheelchair platform lift the user will be able to be a lot more independent and will be able to come and go from their home more easily. There is sufficient evidence to show that having a greater sense of independence can have a direct and positive impact on mental health.

Types of Platform Lifts

Platform lifts for wheelchairs and scooters

Vertical Platform Lift (VPL)

A vertical platform lift is designed to assist the user in moving between two points above and below one another. They are for use over shorter distances, and are often used in commercial spaces but can be used as a domestic solution to cover distances that are not as lengthy as a set of stairs.

The great thing about VPLs is that they can be installed either indoors or outdoors so are a very versatile piece of equipment. If the wheelchair user has a porch that they find difficult to navigate then a vertical wheelchair lift can be an excellent aide.

Incline Platform Lift (IPL)

In areas where an elevator or ramp cannot be installed due to limitations on space or other factors, an incline wheelchair lift can be fitted to a staircase to help wheelchair users gain access to higher floors.

They are ideal if a ramp would be too steep and can be used inside and out so can provide a range of solutions in different spaces. Incline wheelchair lifts make a great addition to both public buildings and homes and are easy to install.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Platform Lift

If you are considering installing a platform lift, it is important that you think about how and where the lift will be used. This will enable you to make the correct choice, as well as choosing something that is going to be safe and provide the user with the most benefit.

Outdoor or Indoor Use?

Fortunately, most wheelchair platform lifts have been designed with both outdoor and indoor use in mind but there are still some that aren’t. For this reason, it is important to check with the manufacturer to ensure that the lift you are selecting will meet your requirements.

A lot of outdoor lifts are extremely hard-wearing and are able to be used in even the harshest weather conditions making them ideal for outdoor use in any climate or location.

Stairway Shape

If you are planning to install an incline wheelchair platform lift then it pays to think about the shape of the staircase. Whilst many staircases feature a simple up and down design, there are some which are curved or have right-angle turns.

Thanks to the railing on which the lift is fitted, there is an option to have a custom made lift that can be designed to perfectly fit your stairs, but you should discuss this with the supplier and installation team prior to making a final decision.

Power Source

Wheelchair platform lifts come with a variety of power options and your needs will determine which option will work best for you.

The lift can be connected to the mains power which could be a good choice for wheelchair users who live alone – this will prevent the user from having to charge batteries which may be difficult. However, the disadvantage of this type of power is that if there is a power outage, the lift will be rendered useless, for this reason, it is worth investing in a battery pack for use in emergencies.

On the other hand, you may opt for a battery-operated unit which will not rely on the mains power. It does mean that you will need to ensure the batteries remain charged for uninterrupted use.

Load Capacity

When we think about the load capacity of a wheelchair lift, it is important to take into consideration that the lift will not only be carrying the user but their wheelchair and any other necessary equipment as well. For this reason, you should choose a lift that is generous enough to accommodate all of these things.

Most platform lifts come with a very good load capacity, some of which go up to 1500lbs so make a great choice for larger users or those who require large amounts of additional equipment. However, it is always important to check with the manufacturer to ensure the correct load capacity is selected, this will also ensure the safe use of the lift and prevent accidents from occurring.

Lifting Height

The lifting height needs to be measured before installing the wheelchair lift and this is usually done by measuring the floor to ceiling height if you are installing indoors. However, if the lift is for outdoor use then either the stair or floor height must be measured.

A wheelchair lift will come with a lift height – the smallest starting at 24 inches and then ranging all the way up to 14 feet so it is important to check that you are purchasing a lift that will meet your needs. You should always opt for a lift that is a size larger than the lifting height you measured as purchasing a shorter lift will not allow you to reach where you need to be.

Platform Size

Wheelchair lifts can either be accessed with a straight through feature or there are adjacent access lifts – the width of these two platforms is not the same. An adjacent lift will require more space since it is wider owing to the access point. No matter what kind of lift you choose, it is vital that the access space is wide enough to easily fit the wheelchair through. Be sure to take ample measurements to get this right.

Furthermore, you should ensure that the platform size will be wide and deep enough to comfortably accommodate the wheelchair.

In addition to the wheelchair being able to easily fit inside the lift, it is important that you factor in the space that the user will need to adjust their position so leaving a little free space is essential.

Available Space

Whilst wheelchair lifts are a space-saving alternative when compared to ramps, they will require some space and so looking at the available room you have is a must before committing to a purchase.

For example if you are fitting a wheelchair lift to a stairway that has sharp turns, it may be beneficial to speak to the supplier about finding a more compact model that will still meet your needs. There are plenty of options available for smaller spaces such as lifts that do not require bulky pieces of equipment.

Of course, you will also need to ensure that there is enough space at either end of the space for the wheelchair user to get in and out of the lift. It can be extremely advantageous to have a professional come and take measurements who can also work with you to find an accessibility solution that fits in with your available space.

Drive System

There are three main types of drive system that are used with wheelchair platform lifts – screw drive, hydraulic and guided chains. One of the first things to think about is that screw drives are not compatible with battery operated lifts so if you have opted for this power type, this drive system will have to be eliminated from your choices.

That being said, whilst a hydraulic drive system will work well with a battery operated lift, they can be a little more pricey, so it pays to think about your budget and be flexible in making compromises if needed. This system will also give a smoother ride and this is something else that should be taken into account when selecting your drive system.

The space that you will need for each drive system will depend on the type that you use, for example, if you opt for a hydraulic system, there must be ample space to store the fluid tank.

Safety Features

One of, if not the most important factors to think about when installing a wheelchair platform lift is the safety of the user – this is paramount above all else. If a lift cannot be used safely, then it should not be used at all.

Your lift will come with various safety features depending on the manufacturer, but there are certain features that you should be looking out for.

An emergency stop button is vital, but other operation safety features such as making the lift key operated to prevent children playing with it can be invaluable. You might also add a remote control for easy operation for both the user or an assistant.

Some lifts come installed with a safety sensor that will alert you to any obstructions which could cause an accident or injury and furthermore, you will find many designs that have a non-slip surface to ensure good grip and prevent the user slipping. In addition to this safe surface, some models come with safety flaps.

A great feature of certain wheelchair lifts is an in-cab telephone which is ideal for users who live alone, especially in an emergency situation.

Budget

The average cost of installing a wheelchair platform list is around $5000, but of course, this can vary greatly depending on any additional features that you might have installed.

Your budget should be taken into serious consideration when choosing a lift. You want to be sure that you are getting the best possible equipment without going over what you can comfortably afford.

It may also be worth talking to your supplier about a payment plan if you feel that this is something that will help you in getting a suitable piece of equipment.

In the U.S., for the most part, many disabled or eldlerly people may be covered by Medicaid so it is worth looking at whether you can get assistance with this. Furthermore, for veterans there is a program which is run by the VBA through which you are able to obtain financial assistance for mobility aids such as a platform lift.

Best Wheelchair Platform Lifts for Indoor & Outdoor Use

1. Ez-Access Passport Vertical Platform Lift

Ez-Access Passport vertical platform lift

Best Overall Vertical Platform Lift – Ez-Access Passport Vertical Platform Lift

The Passport vertical platform lift from Ez-Access is an excellent choice for those looking to improve accessibility to a raised entryway, elevated porch, or pathway.

The residential vertical platform lift is available in a choice of lifting heights, including a 52-inch or 72-inch option. You can choose between different platform configurations, including straight, turn, or dual access platforms to suit a range of structures.

With a hefty weight capacity of up to 750 lbs, the platform lift is suitable for all types of mobility vehicles, from motorized scooters or powered wheelchairs, to manual wheelchairs.

Due to its weather-resistant design and slip-resistant surface, the porch lift is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Constructed from aluminum, the lift weighs just under 400 lbs, which makes it incredibly lightweight and portable, as well as durable.

Installing this vertical platform lift is a breeze. As it is prewired, it means you can simply plug it in a standout outlet, allowing it to be quickly installed without the need of an electrician. As it is also energy efficient, you don’t need to worry about costly energy bills.

The lift features mushroom head control switches, which are easy to operate, even by those with limited strength or dexterity. The wireless remote control allows the lift to be operated, either by the patient or their caregiver.

Once the wheelchair is wheeled onto the platform, the entry ramp will automatically fold up to protect the user while the lift is in motion. In the event of a power outage, the battery back-up will allow the lift to still be operational (up to 20 complete cycles). If the lift malfunctions for any reason, a hand crank can be operated to lower the lift manually. To protect the lift from accidental damage, a safety sensor is also fitted which will stop it in case it encounters any obstructions or obstacles.

Key Specs:

  • Weight capacity: 750 lbs
  • Max travel distance: 52″ or 72″
  • Platform size: 50.75 (L) x 36 (W) or 59.75 (L) x 38 (W)
  • Lift speed: 10 ft/min

2. Trus-T-Lift 750 Vertical Platform Lift

Trus-T-Lift 750 vertical platform lift

Best Budget Vertical Platform Lift – Trus-T-Lift 750 Vertical Platform Lift

The Trus-T-Lift 750 from RAM is a good option for those looking for a cost-effective vertical platform lift that can be installed in a residential property, to provide wheelchair or mobility scooter users easy access to an elevated platform.

With its small footprint, the lift takes up minimal space. This makes it ideal if you have a limited area. Being weatherproof, it is both suited for outdoor and indoor use. Installing the lift is a simple and straightforward process. It just needs to be plugged into a standard outlet, therefore saving you time and effort.

The Trus-T-Lift 750 lift has a weight capacity of 750 lbs, making it suitable for heavier mobility devices, such as powered mobility scooters or wheelchairs. The platform lift is available in a wide range of lifting heights, ranging from 28″ up to 168″, making it suitable for most needs.

The vertical platform lift is easy to use. To operate it, you press either up or down on the control pad. Once at the landing, the lift will stop automatically. If you need to stop it for any reason when it is moving, you just need to depress the control pad, and it will stop immediately. An emergency stop button can also be used in case the lift needs to be stopped quickly.

The non-skid platform flooring ensures good traction, especially in wet conditions. The lift is also fitted with a guard rail and an 8-inch folding ramp that ensures the patient’s safety when the lift is operational. The ramp remains in an upright position until the lift returns back down to the ground.

To prevent the user from becoming stuck in case of a power outage, a hand crank can be used to manually lower the lift.

Purchasing a platform lift is a sizeable investment, so you will want to ensure that it will provide you with many years of trouble-free service. You can be assured that the Trus-T-Lift 750 has been built to last. It is extremely sturdy, and it has been designed to withstand the harshest of conditions due to its advanced corrosion protection. The lift is fitted with an electric drive system that is both reliable as well as very quiet.

Key Specs:

  • Weight capacity: 750 lbs
  • Max travel distance: 28″ – 168″
  • Platform size: 50.75″ (L) x 36″ (W), 59.75″ (L) x 38″ (W)
  • Lift speed: 8 ft/min

3. AmerGlide Titan Incline Platform Lift

AmerGlide Titan Incline Platform Lift

Best Indoor Incline Platform Lift – AmerGlide Titan Incline Platform Lift

This Titan incline platform lift from AmerGlide is the perfect solution to transport a wheelchair user up a flight of stairs if you have insufficient space to install a vertical platform lift indoors.

The incline platform lift has a 500 lbs weight capacity, so it can carry a wide range of mobility devices up a straight stairway without compromising on safety. The Titan indoor lift is available with a track length ranging from 16″ up to 40″, and the platform is available in two different widths, either 25″ or 27.5″.

The lift is available with an optional integrated seat. This is particularly suited for those who may not use a mobility device, but still require the use of a platform lift.

The Titan incline platform lift is simple to install, it just needs to be mounted to the existing stair tracks, and it does not need to be wall-mounted. This means the cost of installing the lift is kept to a minimum, as it can be installed more quickly by a single person and with less disruption.

When the platform lift is not in use, it folds up to a compact 13″ against the wall to conserve space, allowing able-bodied people to use the staircase as well.

To ensure the patient’s safety, the lift is fitted with a powered entry and exit folding ramp. There is a stop button that will stop it instantly in case of an emergency. Safety sensors are fitted as well, that automatically stops the lift if it encounters any obstacles in its path.

Key Specs:

  • Weight capacity: 500 lbs
  • Max travel distance: 16″ – 40″
  • Platform size: 25″ (L) x 36″ (W), 27.5″ (L) x 36″ (W), 27.5″ (L) x 36″ (W)
  • Lift speed: 14 ft/min

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

For people who struggle to access certain floors or raised platforms either in the home or in a public space, a wheelchair lift can be life-changing. With two different types of lift to choose from – the vertical or the incline lift, a versatile variety of areas can be made accessible.

It is, however, important to think about the intended use of the lift, and the needs of the wheelchair user as this will ensure that you are able to source and install a product that will be beneficial.

Varying widths, lifts for outdoor use and important safety features are just some of the things that you should take into account when shopping for a wheelchair platform lift.

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