Home improvement

Understanding the Different Types of Home Lifts

When requesting home lift installation services from Lift Works, property owners must understand the various lift options open to them. Size plays a role in which lift a person selects, but many other factors need consideration during the decision-making process. Sadly, many people remain unaware of these options and request the lift they are most familiar with. Don’t make this mistake. Learn about these options and discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each option with the installation team. Doing so ensures you get a lift that meets your needs in every way.

Hydraulic Lifts

A hydraulic lift serves as a heavy-duty unit, one capable of carrying 750 pounds with ease. Some models can carry up to 1,000 pounds but require a hoist-way that is full and complete. While this type of unit does offer an excellent ride, one that is smooth and comfortable, homeowners find they are expensive, particularly when only one or two individuals will use the lift regularly.

Nevertheless, the durability of these units makes them a preferred choice of some. When they are properly maintained, they can last 50 years or more. Individuals with a large family of four or more people and those with a big home may wish to consider this type.

Lifts With No Machine Room

Machine-Roomless Lifts or MRL devices incorporate the driver and controller into the hoist way, eliminating the need for a machine room in the home. Smaller residences benefit from this option that can serve as many as five landings. The buyer must choose between a counterweight electric chain device and a cable drive system when installing this system. The installation team will be of help in determining which is appropriate for the residence.

Winding Drum Lift

Home lifts that operate on an electric motor that winds a cable on a drum are referred to as winding drum lifts. The cable raises and lowers the lift. Small homes benefit from this lift style, but it does require the installation of a pit and hoistway. Furthermore, the home must have space for a machine room. These carry anywhere from 500 to 750 pounds, depending on the model selected. Owners love the ease of servicing and maintaining the lift. However, the ride isn’t as smooth as that seen with hydraulic lifts.

Vacuum Lifts

A vacuum lift serves as an air-driven lift that is raised and lowered by air pressure. Due to the limitations seen with this type of lift, they are only suitable for homes with three or fewer residents. However, they are wheelchair accessible and can carry up to 525 pounds. Many homeowners find this to be the best option for their small residence, as they don’t require a machine or pit room. However, they are only capable of traveling to a height of 50 feet and cannot serve more than five landings.

Consider all options when purchasing a home lift. One is certain to be right for residence. It’s simply a matter of determining which type that is. If you are struggling to decide, don’t hesitate to ask the installation team for advice. They install these devices in homes regularly and can provide insight that wasn’t available through research alone.