Winter is here, and with North America projected to experience a rough season, many home and commercial property owners are facing the challenges that come with operating machinery, including vertical platform lifts (VPLs) in cold, unrelenting weather. Vertical platform lifts are valuable tools that help facilitate accessibility and convenience in any space. For those who rely on them to navigate safely, knowing how to care for them year-round is essential. Winter brings lots to contend with, including snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. At RAM Elevators + Lifts, we understand the importance of being able to depend on your machinery regardless of the time of year. We’re proud to build high-quality, durable lifts that are designed to function season after season. Below, we’ll cover four common cold weather challenges for VPLs and why our products stand out as a dependable solution, no matter the temperature outside. Read on to learn more!
Cold-Induced Battery and Power Issues
Freezing temperatures are notorious for affecting battery performance, particularly for VPLs located outdoors. In extremely low temperatures like those experienced in the Canadian prairies and American Midwest, batteries often lose their charge faster and may even fail if left unattended. While you can help mitigate this by housing your battery in an enclosure, if your VPL unit is designed to handle tough environments, you’re likely in for a bad time at some point during the season.
Meet the RAM Advantage
RAM platform lifts are built with tough, weather-friendly features, and our team prides itself on incorporating power options that help minimize the negative impact of low temperatures. RAM’s engineering also focuses on efficient power usage, meaning you get longer operation times with less worry about battery performance during colder months.
Freezing or Icy Tracks and Components
Ice accumulation can be a serious concern for outdoor mechanics, especially lifts with exposed track components. During the freeze/thaw cycles that happen in early winter and spring, snow often melts during the day, only to freeze overnight and create ice buildup on core components like tracks, chains, and cables, which can seriously hinder (and damage) your lift.
Meet the RAM Advantage
RAM lifts are designed with high-quality materials and components that are more resistant to corrosion and harsh weather effects. As a North America-based manufacturer, we understand the risks of ice build-up and include the option for enclosed lifts for extra protection against the elements and peace of mind when it matters most.
Condensation and Moisture-Related Issues
Winter brings one specific danger point for electronic and mechanical parts to contend with: excess moisture and condensation. Rain, sleet, and snow can all lead to condensation buildup, which can infiltrate electrical and metal parts over time, leading to malfunctions and corrosion. Excess moisture can dramatically affect performance and, if left unchecked for long enough, can even lead to total unit failure.
Meet the RAM Advantage
RAM’s lifts are designed to bring durability to every climate, with sealed components and water-resistant designs that stand the test of time and offer superior unit protection. RAM engineers anticipate weather challenges and create highly resilient lifts with materials and designs that prevent damage from moisture. You can trust RAM VPLs to perform no matter the temperature.
Reduced Lubrication Efficiency in Cold Weather
Extreme cold temperatures can cause lubricants to thicken, stiffening and slowing the lift’s parts and eventually straining the unit as a whole. Thick lubricant strains the motor and mechanical components over time, leading to issues, breakdowns, and costly repairs down the line.
Meet the RAM AdvantageRAM VPLs are designed with resilience at the forefront of every feature, from high-grade materials that perform in difficult climates to high-performance motors and components that offer enviable longevity. RAM products are rigorously tested, meaning every component has been evaluated for efficiency in challenging conditions, reducing the need for extra maintenance in winter.
Discover the RAM Difference Today
RAM Elevators and Lifts are designed and manufactured in North America, meaning we know what it takes to tackle cold weather with our lifts. With quality materials, cold-resistant designs, and advanced features built for low-temperature performance, our vertical platform lifts offer users a safe, reliable, and accessible solution throughout all seasons.
Ready to invest in a lift that stands up to winter’s toughest conditions? Contact RAM Elevators and Lifts to learn more today!