Monday, April 23, 2012

What to Look for When Buying Home Wheelchair Lifts

Home wheelchair lifts are becoming popular nowadays as they help handicapped individuals move around from place to place easily. There are many types of wheelchair lifts you can choose from such as portable wheelchair lifts, vertical wheelchair lifts and inclined wheelchair lifts.

Things to Consider When Purchasing Home Wheelchair Lifts

Following are some of the important points to consider when purchasing residential wheelchair lifts.

•    Models: Decide on the model you want before buying residential wheelchair lifts. A wide range of wheelchair lift options are available for transporting wheelchairs up and down the floors. Select one that meets your requirements. 
  
•    Features: Make a list of the features you need in the model. You can ask for a lot of additional security features to ensure safety of the users.

•    Loading capacity and space consumption: Consider the factors such as loading capacity and space consumption which vary from model to model.

•    Quality – Look for the quality of the residential wheelchair lift model. Quality products come with manufacturer warranty ensuring the durability of the product. While purchasing these products, also make sure that they are free from manufacturing defects. ThyssenKrupp Access and Savaria are the well-known manufacturers that offer quality wheelchair lifts.

•    Safety features: Residential stair lifts are integrated with a wide range of advanced safety features. Make sure that the lifts you purchase are equipped with all safe operational features. To ensure safe and reliable operation, most of the residential wheelchair lifts are integrated with advanced safety features such as anti-skid flooring, cable safety device, manual lowering device, continuous pressure controls, emergency alarm button, safety under-panel sensors, emergency stop switch, grab rails, automatic folding access ramps and obstruction sensors. Also ensure that they are ADA compliant.

The other important factors to be considered while buying a home wheelchair lift are the maintenance cost and availability of spare parts.

Take Full Note of Your Requirements

Understand your requirements well before purchasing wheelchair lifts. You can request the help of a technician from the lift manufacturing company who can advise you on selecting the wheelchair lift suitable for your home. As home wheelchair lifts are meant for residential purposes, the users are free to buy models of their choice. They should ensure that the lift is compatible with his/her wheelchair.

Many people are installing wheelchair lifts in their homes mainly because of the greater mobility they ensure for their loved ones. Try to locate an established dealer of accessibility equipment to choose a model that best fits your home settings. Only a reliable dealer would offer you quality products and also provide installation support as well as prompt maintenance and repair service.

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Enjoy Safe and Comfortable Movement Up and Down the Stairs with a Wheelchair Stair Lift

Wheelchair stair lifts can help individuals confined to the wheelchair enjoy safe and comfortable movement up and down the stairs. These aren’t cumbersome devices, but ones that can be professionally installed through the services provided by the wheelchair lift suppliers. With features such as noiseless travel, remote controls, non-skid platform, great lifting capabilities and ADA compliance, residential wheelchair lifts and commercial wheelchair lifts are safe and reliable equipment that can serve you for years, particularly with the flawless service of the wheelchair stair lift dealers ensuring you have a great ownership experience.   

Hydraulic and Electric Wheelchair Stair Lifts

Wheelchair lifts are available for indoor as well as outdoor applications. There are two common kinds of wheelchair lifts – the hydraulic wheelchair lift and the electric wheelchair lift. Hydraulic wheelchair lifts are more expensive than the electric versions on account of their hydraulic mechanism. But they are really efficient in detecting surface and speed changes, and level the differences accordingly. They are also safe. Electric wheelchair lifts are probably more practical in that they are cheaper, easier to use and can also be customized. In the event of a power cut, electric lifts can function with battery power.
  
Wheelchair stair lifts can be of great help to customers visiting your business, while public buildings and schools are required to install these ADA-compliant devices. Home wheelchair lifts can help your loved ones using the wheelchair to move about freely.

Commercial and Home Wheelchair Lifts from TK Access and Savaria

The following are well known residential wheelchair lifts and commercial wheelchair lifts from reputable manufacturers:

ThyssenKrupp Access’ Porch-Lift PL-RA

The Porch-Lift PL-RA Residential Wheelchair Platform Lift from ThyssenKrupp Access has attractive features such as:

•    Ability to accommodate any wheelchair size
•    750 lbs lifting capacity
•    Smooth and quiet ride
•    Non-skid platform
•    Emergency stop button
•    Constant pressure up/ down control switch on the platform
•    Highly sensitive obstruction sensors: these stop the lift instantly when an obstruction is encountered on its travel path, and protect the user from injuries and the lift from damage.
•    Key lock to protect the lift from unauthorized use
•    VDRTM mechanical interlocks prevent the lift from moving until the gate is securely closed
•    Directional paddle
•    Optional remote controls to provide instant access

Savaria’s Multilift

The Multilift Vertical Platform Lift from Savaria is ideal for residential as well as commercial use. It can be used indoors and outdoors, and come with durable design and non-skid platform. The underpan obstruction sensors automatically stop the lift when an obstruction is sensed on its travel path. Other features include:

•    Emergency stop button on car
•    Automatic access ramps
•    Manual lowering crank
•    Slack cable switch
•    Keyed cab buttons
•    Keyed call stations
•    Continuous pressure operation
•    42 1/8" (1070 mm) side panels

These are examples of vertical wheelchair lifts, but there are also inclined platform lifts and portable wheelchair lifts on offer. With wheelchair stair lifts one can enjoy safe and comfortable movement up and down the stairs.

Friday, April 6, 2012

Residential Wheelchair Lifts Provide Comfortable Access

Residential wheelchair lifts provide comfortable access to different parts of the home for those individuals who find it difficult to move around on their own. They are available in a wide range of unique elegant and compact designs that would compliment your home settings. Residential wheelchair lifts can be customized and configured according to your specifications.

Residential wheelchair lifts are available in different models, including portable wheelchair lifts, vertical platform lifts and inclined wheelchair lifts that can be used both indoors and outdoors. Residential wheelchair lifts are designed with strong platforms in such a way that they can accommodate wheelchairs of different sizes including adult wheelchairs, powered wheelchairs, sports wheelchairs and child wheelchairs.

Basically, residential wheelchair lifts are available in two different operating modes - hydraulic and electrically powered. Hydraulic wheelchair lifts run on liquid and it can be used in remote areas where there is no electric power. These generate less noise and provide smooth and comfortable access.  In addition, they are easy to install.

Compared to hydraulic wheelchair lifts, electrically powered wheelchair lifts are more flexible, less expensive and are built with battery backup facility. These can be operated even when there is power failure.

 Safety Features of a Residential Wheelchair Lift

To ensure maximum safety and comfort to the users, residential wheelchair lifts are integrated with advanced safety measures and easy to operate controls. These include:

•    Safety under panel sensor
•    Automatic dual access ramps
•    Continuous pressure control buttons
•    Electro-mechanical braking system with motor
•    Folding seats with armrests
•    Safety belts
•    Obstruction sensors
•    Audio visual alarm
•    Emergency stop switch
•    Grab rails
•    Emergency alarm
•    Anti-skid flooring
•    Manual lowering device
•    Cable safety device
Residential wheelchair lift models are provided with optional remote controls to ensure easy operation. Apart from this, they also feature a key lock to prevent any kind of unauthorized access. Regarding the maintenance part, residential wheelchair lifts require less maintenance services and are long-lasting too.
Before purchasing residential wheel chair lifts, it is very important to acquire a general understanding of the different models available in the market, the various manufacturers and well-known dealers in the industry. Savaria Concord, Garaventa and Thyssenkrupp Access are the competent manufacturers that offer quality residential wheelchair lifts. Utilize the service of reliable dealers for getting the best products in the industry. You also need to make sure that they offer trouble-free installation and timely maintenance services.

Monday, April 2, 2012

Home Wheelchair Lifts - Enjoy Greater Freedom and Independence in Homes

Known also as residential wheelchair lifts, home wheelchair lifts assist physically challenged disabled and aged persons in your home by providing them comfortable access to multiple levels of their homes. This easy to use lift provides safe transportation thus making it possible for your loved ones to move independently, and enjoy greater freedom and independence in homes. With a home wheelchair lift installed, the value of your home automatically increases.
These are available in a wide range of models such as portable wheelchair lifts, vertical platform lifts and inclined wheelchair lifts. You can buy these products for use both indoors and outdoors. The platforms of these wheelchair lifts are designed in such a way that they can accommodate wheelchairs of different sizes. The pricing would depend on the various features incorporated and the particular model chosen, among other factors.

Advanced Safety Features for Safe and Reliable Operation

To ensure safe and reliable operation, home wheelchair lifts are integrated with advanced safety features including:

•    Anti-skid flooring
•    Cable safety device
•    Manual lowering device
•    Continuous pressure controls
•    Emergency alarm button
•    Safety under-panel sensors
•    Emergency stop switch
•    Grab rails
•    Automatic folding access ramps
•    Electromechanical braking system
•    Obstruction sensors
You can remain assured that your family members enjoy greater freedom and independence without being overly concerned about their safety.

Benefits of Home Wheelchair Lifts

•    Greater independence
•    Highly affordable
•    Best suited for indoor and outdoor applications
•    Increased portability
•    Easier to control

As there are so many models with different features available in the market, you should be careful to choose a home wheelchair lift that meets your specific requirements. In order to choose the best one, do some serious research. Visit the websites of reputable manufacturers to find out the various models available, the features incorporated, pricing, services provided and other relevant details.  It is best to go for manufacturers who provide quality products and services. ThyssenKrupp Access, Savaria Concord and Garaventa are some of the manufacturers offering superior quality home wheelchair lifts.

Some Points to Consider

Before purchasing home wheelchair lifts, it is necessary to consider the following points -

•    Whether it would stay within your budget
•    Consider what the wheelchair user's needs are
•    Consider the space requirement
•    Consider the size, height and weight of the lift
•    Check the lift’s compliance with ADA guidelines and other standard codes

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Commercial Wheelchair Lifts - Ensure Safe Access in Commercial Buildings

Commercial wheelchair lifts are an economical and convenient means of transporting wheelchair users up and down the various floors in commercial buildings. These mobility devices are best suited for use in educational institutions like schools, colleges and universities; auditoriums, churches and historic buildings. They give a great sense of independence to wheelchair bound individuals, providing them safe access to all parts of the building.

The commercial wheelchair lifts are categorized into two types--inclined and vertical wheelchair lifts. Inclined commercial lifts are used in those commercial settings where there is space constraint. These lifts can be used on all kinds of staircases including spiral, straight and curved. Certain models can be folded and stowed away when not in use.

Safety and Functional Features Contribute to a Remarkable User Experience


Commercial wheelchair lifts work using different mechanisms. Certain lifts can be operated electronically while others require hydraulics. Wheelchair lifts that require hydraulics can work even without any power. At present, most of the commercial wheelchair lift models available in the market come with a large platform which can accommodate any type of wheelchair including power wheelchairs, sports wheelchairs, child wheelchairs and adult wheelchairs.

Commercial wheelchair lifts are now available with a wide range of safety features and user-friendly controls, which ensure safe access in commercial buildings. Some of the common features of these lifts are-

•    Emergency stop and alarm
•    Automatic sensor stop in case of danger due to objects in path
•    Handrails for better protection
•    Safety brakes
•    Automatic dual access ramps
•    Anti-skid models enhance safety
•    Manual lowering device
•    Battery back-up in case of power shutdown
•    Remote controls
•    Door interlocks

Benefits of Commercial Wheelchair Lifts 

•    Smooth and quiet operation
•    Flexible designs, specifications and features
•    Affordable operating costs
•    Very sturdy and durable
•    Made for tough and regular use
•    Easy to install
•    Customizable to the specific requirements of the users
•    Installation can be done without making any structural modifications
•    Safe and reliable operation
•    Comes with advanced space saving features
•    Flexibility to use in different commercial settings

Purchase a Branded Model to Ensure Quality

Commercial wheelchair lifts are available in several models and specifications; you can buy lifts for both indoor and outdoor use. ThyssenKrupp Access, Savaria Concord, Bruno and Garaventa are some of the well-known manufacturers of commercial wheelchair lifts. The commercial wheelchair lifts supplied by the dealers are completely tested and their proper functioning is ensured through scheduled checkups.

While buying commercial wheelchair lifts, be sure to approach only well-known dealers. Such dealers will have experienced professionals for providing installation, repair and maintenance services. To benefit from the best service, settle for dealers with long term experience.

Monday, March 19, 2012

Where to Buy Commercial Wheelchair Lifts

Wheelchair lifts are convenient accessibility options for the elderly and physically challenged individuals to safely access the stairways in multistoried residential and commercial buildings. The right wheelchair lifts would make your facility a friendly and welcome place to wheelchair users. When it comes to buying commercial wheelchair lifts for your business establishment, go for the services of established distributors as they can offer perfectly designed wheelchair lifts from well-known manufacturers along with dedicated after-sales assistance.

Premium Models of Wheelchair Lifts from Leading Manufacturers

Wheelchair platform lift systems are a boon to wheelchair users, helping them access stairways without injuring themselves in any way. Understanding the mobility requirements of mobility restricted individuals in commercial facilities, many experienced distributors in the United States offer innovative models of commercial wheelchair lifts. In their extensive product inventory you can find compact and stylish models of wheelchair lifts including inclined platform lifts, portable wheelchair lifts and vertical platform lifts.  These lift systems are suitable for use in busy commercial places including shopping malls, office establishments, public spaces, educational institutions, churches and so on. Searching their product index enables you to select premium models of wheelchair platform lift systems from industry-best manufacturers including ThyssenKrupp Access, Adaptive Engineering and Savaria.

Most wheelchair platform lift models are designed in such a way that they can be operated easily, and ensures comfortable and safe ride to the different floors. Popular models of wheelchair lifts that can be used in commercial facilities are:

•    Inclined platform lifts
•    Carrier lift
•    ES-125
•    Vertical platform lift systems
•    Porch-Lift PL-S (Standard)
•    Porch-Lift PL-ENC (Enclosed Lift)
•    Porch-Lift PL-TG (Toe Guard)
•    Porch-Lift PL-P (Portable Lift)
•    Porch-Lift PL-EZE (Economy Enclosed Lift)
•    Multilift
•    V1504
•    Portable Wheelchair lifts
•    Roby powered stair climber
•    Mobilift CX

Buy Wheelchair Lifts with High-end Safety Options

Commercial wheelchair lifts from well-known distributors are incorporated with user-friendly controls and advanced safety options such as:

•    Underpan obstruction sensors: stops the lift automatically whenever an
     object blocks its movement path
•    Non-skid platform
•    Emergency stop button on car
•    Emergency brake
•    Audio visual alarm
•    Safety belt
•    Remote controls for easy operation
•    Key lock to prevent unauthorized access
•    Slack cable switch
•    Keyed continuous pressure controls
•    Emergency lowering hand crank

Apart from providing the finest models of commercial wheelchair lifts, established distributors also ensure the following:

•    Simple installation procedures
•    Category 1 and 5 testing for all models of wheelchair lifts
•    Excellent after-sales support
•    Well-timed inspection, maintenance and repair services to ensure steady
     performance of the equipment for a long-term
 
Further, these distributors provide assistance to select wheelchair lifts featuring the right technology. After an evaluation of your site and specific accessibility requirements, their experienced technicians would suggest the model that ideally suits your facility. 

Contact a Reputable Dealer

To buy reliable models of commercial wheelchair lifts, as well as for trouble-free installation services, it is essential to choose a reputable supplier of accessibility devices. As a wide range of resources are available on the web, you can find one quite easily. Searching online directories and yellow pages with your zip code or city name would provide comprehensive information about the established suppliers in your region. Posting queries on forums, as well as reading newsletters, articles, reviews, blogs, and client testimonials also would help in identifying an experienced dealer.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Wheelchair Stair Lifts - Comfortable Floor to Floor Access

Wheelchair stair lifts ensure comfortable floor-to-floor access for people with mobility problems. They can be installed in both commercial and residential buildings. Wheelchair lifts come in a range of models suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Whether you have curved, straight or spiral stairways, there are vertical, inclined and portable models available to serve the purpose. Portable wheelchair lifts offer access to stages, porches, and elevated platforms.

Safety Considerations for Comfortable Floor-to-Floor Access

To ensure comfortable floor-to-floor access, wheelchair lifts are configured with advanced features such as:

Non-skid platform – The large, non-skid platform of the lifts allow you to accommodate different types of wheelchairs including child wheelchairs, traditional adult wheelchairs, sports wheelchairs and power wheelchairs. The non-skid surfaces of the platforms prevent wheelchair users from slipping off the lifts.

Seat belt – The seat belts of the lifts help you to comfortably travel up and down floors and keep the user from falling.

Obstruction sensor – The obstruction sensors in wheelchair lifts sense when the path of the lift is blocked.

Battery backup system – Battery backup systems ensure that the lift functions even during power breakdowns.

Door interlocks – The door interlocks keep the door from being opened when the lift is in use.

Durable construction – Wheelchair lifts built of corrosion-resistant material like aluminum are durable. They come with shatterproof acrylic panels, the ability to hold up to 750 lbs.

Professional Help to Install Quality Equipment

The installation of wheelchair lifts must follow ADA specifications. Therefore, it is advisable to get professional help for this. Reliable dealers in accessibility equipment help you choose the right wheelchair stair lift model from their wide inventory of leading brands, and also offer help to install it in accordance with regulatory guidelines. Most suppliers offer excellent technical support, and timely inspection, testing and maintenance service.

Friday, March 9, 2012

How to Buy the Right Wheelchair Stair Lift

Wheelchair stair lifts provide better mobility and independence to physically handicapped and aged people. These lifts comprise vertical lifts, wheelchair lifts, commercial wheelchair lifts, residential wheelchair lifts and vertical platform lifts. Compared to elevators, wheelchair stair lifts are more cost-effective and offer speedier movement from one floor to another.

Wheelchair stair lifts are widely used in schools, hospitals, shops and offices. They are used for both indoor and outdoor purposes. They come in different styles, designs and colors and you can choose one that would go well with your requirements. Special care should be taken while buying the right wheelchair stair lift.

Benefits of Using Wheelchair Stair Lifts

•    Easy to use
•    Reliable and very convenient
•    Safe and comfortable
•    Easy to install

Wheelchair Stair Lifts - Features

•    Optional remote controls with key lock to prevent unauthorized access
•    3 Drive systems:  A/C powered belt driven ball screw, battery powered belt driven ball screw, battery powered hydraulic
•    90° and 180° entry/exit configurations
•    Emergency stop button
•    Safety under panel sensor
•    Final limit switches
•    Automatic dual access ramps
•    Continuous pressure control buttons
•    Audio visual alarm
•    Grab rails
•    Emergency alarm
•    Anti-skid flooring
•    Manual lowering device
•    Electro-mechanical braking system with motor
•    Folding seats with armrests
•    Safety belts

Points to Consider when Buying a Wheelchair Stair Lift

There are some points to be considered while buying a wheelchair stair lift. The most important thing is to select a model that caters to the specific requirements of the users. Make sure that you can use the lift comfortably without much effort.

As there are different models of residential wheelchair lifts and commercial wheelchair lifts, you can choose a model fitting your budget. Make sure that you buy ADA compliant wheelchair lifts. These lifts are safe and can be used without fearing mishaps or accidents. Listed here are certain points to consider while buying a wheelchair stair lift.

•    Safety features – Safety is an important factor to consider when you buy the device. Ensure that your stair lift is equipped with all necessary safety features such as seat belts, arm rests, safety brakes, remote controls and more. 

•    Height of the seat: It is also important to consider the height of the seat. If the seat is too low, it would be difficult for the user to stand up when the lift has reached its destination. 

•    Check whether the wheelchair lift has weather-resistant properties, for the lift to be installed outdoors.

•    Capacity – You should check out the loading capacity of the mobility device you choose.

•    Model – Try to choose a model that best fits your stairways.

•    Price - Do a survey on pricing to buy a stair lift that fits your budget.