For those looking to incorporate accessibility features into their home, whether for immediate or future-minded purposes, home lifts can be a great way to ensure that your space is easy and safe to navigate. As many living in North America will know, however, installing mechanical equipment in regions where seasonal shifts (namely the winter months) pose climate challenges that need to be considered to ensure your installation is as successful as possible.
At RAM Elevators + Lifts, we’re no stranger to the cold and know how to ensure our lifts are able to perform all year round, even in challenging climates. If you’re considering installing Vertical Platform Lifts (VPL), below are the top factors you’ll need to address for outdoor platforms. Read on to learn more.
Location and Exposure
Site selection is integral for any lift or elevator but is even more vital when considering the placement of outdoor units. The right location will help to minimize elemental exposure and protect your lift against winter issues like snow, ice, and wind, all of which can affect operations and exacerbate wear and tear. RAM technicians are skilled at finding the right area that meets your needs and factors in the climate for optimal performance.
Foundation and Drainage
Proper foundation and drainage systems are critical for the successful installation and long-term performance of an outdoor lift, especially in areas prone to snow and excess moisture during the winter. Cold temperatures can cause the ground to freeze and thaw, leading to shifting and heaving, which often impacts the stability of the lift, meaning that it is essential to compensate with a stable foundation.
Water accumulation can also lead to issues at the base of the lift when it freezes, making the entrance icy and damaging internal mechanisms. Proper drainage helps to avoid this by carrying water away from the lift via sloped surfaces and/or dedicated drainage channels. Heated mats and defrost systems, as well as non-corrosive de-icing solutions (not salt), also play a key role in preventing ice buildup.
Durability
When choosing a vertical platform lift for installation in a cold environment, selecting a model with proven cold-weather durability is non-negotiable. RAM’s VPLs are built with weather-resistant materials that can withstand tough temperatures without compromising on quality and durability. We know that performance and reliability are essential, and that’s why we make sure our models stand up to the task of cold weather.
Electrical and Battery Considerations
The electrical components of your outdoor lift can be vulnerable to extreme cold, leading to potential malfunctions if not properly protected. To compensate for this, installing battery heaters or an insulated enclosure can be helpful, and electrical components, including control panels, wires and connection points, should be kept safe in weatherproof casing.
Inspections and Maintenance
Finally, taking a proactive, preventative approach to caring for your VPL is important regardless of what climate you call home. Cold weather, however, does place extra stress on outdoor lifts, meaning that routine inspection and maintenance is essential for product longevity and performance. Consistently check all core components and follow all manufacturer-recommended maintenance cycles to prevent sudden issues or failures from occurring.
Plan for Winter Success with RAM VPLs
Installing a RAM Vertical Platform Lift in a cold environment requires careful planning and attention to detail, but with the help of our experienced technicians and leading design, our customers can rest easy knowing they have the best solution possible. RAM’s VPLs are designed to perform reliably in outdoor settings, including cold environments; by implementing proper planning and maintenance, you can enjoy the benefits of safe and accessible mobility all year round!
To learn more about RAM’s outdoor home lift options, including cold-weather solutions, contact our team today.