A wheelchair lift has allowed wheelchairs to go wherever the user wants to go, by getting their wheelchair into a vehicle. With modern technology, it’s easier than ever to transport your wheelchair. Whether it’s on a platform lift or a hoist lift, wheelchair lifts have become more versatile and easier to use. In this blog post, we’re going to take a look at the different types of wheelchair lifts, how wheelchair lifts work, and how you can get a wheelchair lift that works for you.
Types Of Wheelchair Lifts
There are three main types of wheelchair lifts; platform lifts, hoist/boom lifts, and tote wheelchair lifts. These types of wheelchair lifts all have the same ideal, to lift the wheelchair for transportation.
- Platform Lift - The platform lift is one of the types of wheelchair lifts for vehicles. The platform lift is best for vans or SUVs. This lift raises and lowers the wheelchair in either the rear or the side door. The wheelchair is placed on a platform and then is lifted or lowered.
- Hoist Lift - Another type of wheelchair lift for car would be the hoist lift. The hoist lift uses a mechanical arm to lift the wheelchair and then place it in the trunk of a car. Hoist lifts are a better option for cars, rather than an SUV or van. That makes the hoist lift a great choice for a wheelchair lift for car.
- Tote Lift - Tote lifts are a type of lift for manual wheelchairs. It has a simpler design and has a very light weight capacity.
All types of wheelchair lifts are designed with safety in mind to user, the vehicle, and the wheelchair.
How Does A Wheelchair Lift Work
It’s easier than ever now to use a wheelchair lift, with many of them lifting a wheelchair with just the push of a button. They do vary in how they work depending on which wheelchair lift you are looking at. Here’s a rundown on how a wheelchair lift works.
Platform Lift - The platform lift uses a platform to raise and lower the wheelchair. To load the wheelchair, the user will use either a button or a switch (depending on the model of the wheelchair lift), and the platform will lower itself level to the ground. You then will roll/drive the wheelchair onto the platform and secure the wheelchair, usually with ties or a hold-down bar. Then you push the button or switch to activate the platform to raise. These lifts are powered by either the vehicle battery or battery on the lift.
Hoist Lift - The hoist/boom lift is only meant to lift the wheelchair. To load your wheelchair using the hoist lift, you roll your wheelchair near the vehicle and attach it to the lift by using straps or a bar (depending on the lift model). Once the wheelchair is properly attached, you’ll use a remote to lift the wheelchair. The hoist will then lift the wheelchair to the proper height and move the wheelchair into place.
Tote Lift - The tote lift works similar to the platform wheelchair lift, except this lift is only meant for the wheelchair. You’ll roll your wheelchair onto the tote lift and securely lock it into place. Also with just a press of a button or switch, the tote lift lifts the wheelchair and is now ready for transport.
Types Of Wheelchair Lifts For Vehicles
The most popular type of wheelchair lift is the wheelchair lift for cars. There are different types of wheelchair lifts for vehicles though, so you’ll need to consider which one may fit you and your needs best.
- Interior Lifts - Interior lifts are lifts that are installed on the inside of your vehicle. These can include the platform lift or the hoist lift.
- Exterior Lifts - Exterior lifts are installed on the outside of the vehicle, the lift will come with a hitch adapter to match the size of the hitch receiver mounted on your vehicle. An exterior lift means cargo space is freed up so your vehicle has the full capacity available.
- Swing-Away Option- Exterior Lifts have the option of a swing-away which allows the lift to swing away to allow the rear hatch to be opened. This option is not required for cars with a trunk but may be used if you prefer.
- Hybrid Lifts - Hybrid lifts combine features of interior and exterior lifts. The lift is mounted outside the vehicle but uses a hoist to put the wheelchair inside of the vehicle.
- Truck Lifts - These lifts are mounted inside of the truck bed and lift the power wheelchair from the ground into the truck bed.
How To Choose The Right Wheelchair Lift
When choosing the right wheelchair lift, there are a few things you’ll need to consider to make sure the lift fits all your needs. Not all lifts are the same or have the same capabilities, so you’ll need to make sure that the wheelchair lift you are looking at can handle your wheelchair and vehicle.
- Vehicle Compatibility - When you are first looking for the right wheelchair lift, think about the vehicle you want to use most for transporting your wheelchair. If you are looking for a wheelchair lift for a car, you’ll want one that can be used with a car. If you have an SUV or van, you’ll want to look for a lift compatible with an SUV or van.
- Types Of Wheelchair Lifts For Vehicles - Choosing which type of wheelchair lift for your vehicle is something you really need to consider, since some lifts take up a lot of space in the car, but your wheelchair will be more protected from the elements. Or you can keep the space inside your vehicle by using an external lift on your hitch, but then the wheelchair will be in the elements. Some wheelchair lifts require minimal installation and other installations are more permanent.
- Weight Capacity - Wheelchair lifts also have a weight limit. Keep in mind that some of the lifts are meant for lifting the wheelchair and the user, so if that’s the lift you’re looking at, the weight capacity is for the weight of the wheelchair, the user, and any items carried.
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Wheelchair Lift Dimensions - Wheelchair lift dimensions are also something to keep in mind. You’ll need to check the wheelchair lift dimensions and make sure that your wheelchair fits on the platform. You’ll also need to make sure the wheelchair lift dimensions fit with your vehicle, such as being able to fit into the trunk, or fits the door width. When it comes to the wheelchair lift dimensions, you’ll also want to make sure it doesn’t obstruct your view when you are ready to drive. How to check for proper wheelchair lift dimensions.
- Measure Your Mobility Device: Record the length, width, and height, as well as its weight.
- Check Your Vehicle’s Specifications: Assess the available space in or around your vehicle for the lift and mobility device. If using an exterior lift then you must make sure the hitch receiver will support the weight of the lift plus the weight of the mobility device, this is called the Tongue weight Rating. The tongue weight rating is based on the vehicle, not the hitch receiver.
- Consult the Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Manufacturers provide detailed specifications for their lifts, including recommended dimensions for compatible mobility devices and vehicles.
- Consider Future Needs: If you anticipate upgrading to a larger wheelchair or scooter, choose a lift with extra capacity.
- Cost - Don’t forget to factor in cost. Some wheelchair lifts cost more than others, so try to find one that fits your budget.
- Ease of use - Some lifts are fully automatic. With just a push of a button or switch, the wheelchair lift will do everything, while other lifts may require some effort from the user.
Best Wheelchair Lifts
When it comes to the best wheelchair lifts, you cannot go wrong with a Harmar wheelchair lift. Harmar offers a wide variety of wheelchair lifts for vehicles and mobility devices, whether power wheelchairs or mobility scooters. The Harmar wheelchair lift has the interior lift, exterior lift, platform lifts, hoist lifts, and more. Harmar lifts are also known for being durable and reliable. With many of the Harmar wheelchair lifts, they offer automatic lifts, but have a backup manual lift in case the battery is dead. That way, you are never left with a non-functional lift.
Here are some of the best of the Harmar Wheelchair Lift:
Harmar AL500 Universal Power Chair Lift
The Harmar AL500 Universal Power Chair Lift is known to be of the safest and most universal outside wheelchair lifts. This Harmar wheelchair lift attaches to the hitch, so you’re able to use it with a more variety of vehicles. This lift has a weight capacity of 350 lbs, so it’s able to lift most powerchairs. This is an automatic wheelchair lift, but it has a manual crank backup if you happen to need it.
Harmar AL6000HD Hybrid Platform Lift
The Harmar AL6000HD Hybrid Platform Lift is a stronger lift as it can lift up to 400 pounds. This interior lift will help protect your wheelchair from the harsh elements. This wheelchair lift is a great option if you drive a van or SUV. This Harmar wheelchair lift is versatile and can be used for mobility scooters as well.
Harmar AL225 Axis II Lite
If you have a smaller chair and vehicle, the Harmar AL225 Axis II Lite may be a great choice for you. This hoist lift is for smaller wheelchairs, as it only has a weight capacity of 250 lbs. This lift is easy to use and has wireless remote options.
Harmar AL815CC Crew Cab Pickup Lift
If you drive a truck, you might want to look into the Harmar AL815CC Crew Cab Pickup Lift. This lift easily lifts and loads/unloads your wheelchair into the bed of the truck. With just the use of a controller, it’s easy to control this Harmar wheelchair lift.
Are Lifts The Same For Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters?
Some of the wheelchair lifts are versatile and can be used with both wheelchairs and mobility scooters. If you are looking for a lift that can do both, Harmar lifts has a few models for both. Make sure to carefully read the description, as some models are only wheelchair lifts and others are only scooter lifts. If you need a Harmar scooter lift, it’s best to look at mobility scooter lifts. These lifts are durable, reliable, and designed with the user in mind, ensuring your Harmar scooter lift meets your expectations for convenience and performance. Choosing a Harmar scooter lift for a mobility scooter ensures that your mobility scooter is more secure, safer, and that you don’t overstrain your lift. If you are unsure if the lift you are looking at can fit your needs and your mobility device, please feel free to reach out to one of our mobility specialists.
Conclusion
Wheelchair lifts have revolutionized mobility and independence, making it easier than ever for wheelchair users to travel wherever they need to go. From platform lifts to hoist lifts and versatile hybrid options, there’s a wheelchair lift to fit every lifestyle and vehicle type. Whether you’re considering interior lifts for added protection or exterior lifts for maximizing space, the right wheelchair lift ensures convenience, safety, and accessibility.
Harmar wheelchair lifts stand out for their durability, reliability, and innovative features, offering solutions for both wheelchairs and mobility scooters. With a range of options tailored to various vehicles and mobility devices, Harmar lifts are designed to meet the unique needs of users, ensuring seamless transportation.
If you’re ready to enhance your mobility or still have questions about which wheelchair lift is best for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of specialists. With the right lift, you can experience the freedom and flexibility to go wherever life takes you.
