About Hydraulic Wheelchair Lifts

Wheelchair lifts can be hydraulic or electric. Hydraulic lifts are ones which use fluid filled cylinders to provide the motion. When the lift is activated, fluid moves into the cylinders. This forces the rods inside the cylinders to move out and lift the platform. They are preferred over electric lifts because they are much safer and smoother, providing a more comfortable ride. One disadvantage is that hydraulic lifts are much more expensive then electric lifts. However, this cost can eventually even out as you will not have higher electric bills.

The main benefit to a wheelchair lift is to provide access to areas that are normally inaccessible to wheelchairs. This includes automobiles, areas of the home that are upstairs, platforms, beaches and public areas. It also allows the user to be more independent and not need help with transfers. Hydraulic lifts are a good choice over electric lifts as they can work even during a power outage. These types of lifts are also much quieter, as there is no running motor.

Hydraulic wheelchair lifts can be made for cars, commercial areas or home use, like the one shown here. Automobile lifts can be made for most types of cars and vans. Most hydraulic wheelchair lifts can be operated by one person. Residential or home stair lifts can be used inside or outside the home. They can rise up to 23 feet and hold up to 500 pounds. Commercial lifts come in a much wider variety. Some are very large and made to stay in one place. Other models are portable and are designed to easily be set up in a variety of settings.

When deciding on what type of hydraulic wheelchair lift to purchase, consider the type of wheelchair you use. The size and weight of the chair must be considered. Some lifts need to be manually folded up after use, and others will be folded hydraulically as well. The ones that fold themselves may be larger and heavier and need more space for installation and use. Some hydraulic vehicle lifts can fold out of the way, making the doors usable even without the lift. On other models you need to exit and enter the door though the lift. It is also important to make sure that when the lift is folded up inside the vehicle that it does not block your view. For residential hydraulic stair lifts, you can purchase lifts that go straight and other models are designed to go around corners.

Hydraulic lifts can be quite expensive and need to be professionally installed. It is also important to look at several types of lifts to find the right one. Some are very open which may pose a safety issue. Some models have grab bars while others are fully enclosed. Some have flat bottoms, and others have a slight ramp to assist the user in rolling off and on the platform. If you are dealing with a permanent disability, check with your doctor, insurance company or an organization that works with your disability, to find out what kind of financial help is available. Some local rehabilitation organizations and senior centers sometimes have grant money available to ease the cost.