Winter is around the corner, and with much of North America preparing for colder temperatures, increased moisture and the many other factors that come with the season, knowing how to care for your home lift all year round is essential for optimal performance and product longevity. At RAM Elevators + Lifts, we know how important it is to have full accessibility in your home and the crucial role home lifts play in making it easy to navigate the space you love. Our Vertical Platform Lifts (VPL) are among the most sought-after products in the industry and stand up to tough conditions with a long lifecycle you can trust.
Below are some crucial winter maintenance tips to help you protect your RAM VPL and ensure it stays in peak working condition throughout the colder months. Read on to learn more!
Inspect to Protect
Routine inspections are key to identifying potential problems all year round but become even more important as temperatures dip. Regularly check all hardware components, including nuts, bolts, and fasteners, which can contract in the cold and loosen, leading to poor performance. You’ll also want to inspect mechanical parts such as the platform, frame, and guide rails for any signs of wear and tear. Units should also be regularly maintained by trained professionals for the best results.
Electrical components can be particularly vulnerable in cold weather, so it is crucial to ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and free from damage before and throughout the season.
Clear Snow and Ice Regularly
Those who live in cold climates likely already know the importance of regular snow removal for safety purposes, but to avoid lift damage, it’s crucial to ensure you treat your VPL with care. Never let snow or ice build-up, as this can lead to a slippery surface that is unsafe for users and can damage the unit itself. Regularly clearing snow and using non-corrosive de-icers (not salt, which can corrode metal), as well as integrating heated mats, can go a long way to keeping your lift safe and functioning in the winter.
Protect Against Water Damage
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of outdoor lifts during winter, with snow and ice seeping into mechanical parts if left unattended. Once your system is compromised, the risk of rust and corrosion, as well as electrical issues, becomes high, and performance can suffer. To avoid this, cover the lift when not in use with a weatherproof cover and always check for pools of water that put your unit at risk.
Ensure Proper Ventilation and Heating
Outdoor home lifts, especially those exposed to extreme cold, often benefit from proper ventilation and heating solutions since cold weather can affect the lift’s battery, motor, and hydraulic systems, leading to performance issues. Sheltering the unit in an enclosure and installing a battery heater are two viable ways to reduce the effects of exposure.
Test Safety Features
The safety of your outdoor home lift is non-compromisable, especially during winter when icy conditions and cold temperatures pose additional risks to those with mobility concerns. Regularly test your lift’s safety features, including emergency stop buttons, safety gates, and backup power systems, to ensure that they are working properly and be prompt with repairs to avoid progressive damage.
Stay Winter-Ready with RAM VPL Lifts
RAM’s Vertical Platform Lifts are designed to withstand the elements all year round, but with a little proactive maintenance, you can help your unit function efficiently all year round. Learn more about RAM’s versatile and dependable VPL line today by contacting our team today!