Today’s technology offers practical solutions that significantly improve accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. For wheelchair users, platform lifts provide a practical solution for navigating changes in elevation within a building and are designed specifically to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices with ease.
While platform lifts are commonly found in commercial settings, they can also be installed in residential environments. Companies such as Advanced Mobility Inc. offer platform lift solutions that support greater accessibility, helping individuals maintain independence and improving overall quality of life.
Read on to learn more about residential and commercial platform lifts.
Difference Between Residential And Commercial Lifts
You may be wondering why the features of a platform lift would differ if they are intended for public or private use. Here are a few things to know:
Commercial Lifts
In public settings, there are typically additional features required in order to meet commercial building codes. Local authorities and inspectors may have additional criteria, but generally these codes include the following features:
- Upper landing gates with locks that only unlock once the lift has safely reached the top floor landing.
- An interlocking carriage gate that only opens when the platform lift has safely reached the lower landing.
- Safety plates on a solid platform that are built to stop functioning in the event of any obstruction.
- Hand rails across the platform entrance.
- A controlled wall extension with a solid handrail for easier entrance and exit.
- Lights and sounds for emergency notification.
- A keyed remote to be able to summon the lift for a rider if it’s at the opposite end of the landing.
- A fully enclosed platform for lifts extending to certain heights.
Residential Lifts
Even in private residences, safety features complying with local codes are a must. Some states require residential lifts to be ASME 18.1 compliant, which includes the following features:
- An 18″ toe plate
- A control wall extension
- Solid handrail for safety
- A safety plan with the platform
- Carriage gate
- A keyed toggle with the upper landing gate and on lower landing.
Types Of Commercial And Residential Lifts
Just as not all wheelchairs are the same, neither are the lifts that transport them. Here are just a few of the models you can find at Advanced Mobility Inc. for commercial or private residences:
Highlander II
Specifically designed to meet a variety of lifestyle needs, this platform lift is a popular choice for residential and commercial residences. People who use wheelchairs can overcome obstacles such as decks, garage entries, multiple floor levels, and more.
What sets this lift apart from the competition is its robust design that allows for heavy lifting, as high as 14 feet. It can suit a wide range of mobility devices, in various height dimensions and configurations. It’s a highly customizable lift that can be customized to suit the needs of almost any building structure.
More up-to-date models include features such as LED lights, smart sense technology to prevent performance issues, and a steady drive system that reduces vibration during liftoff, improving the user experience.
VPL400-X
This vertical platform lift is designed to be less bulky than other lifts, saving spaces in smaller residential homes. This less intrusive design makes it more suitable for homeowners who may be concerned about the amount of remodeling that will have to take place in order to accommodate a platform lift.
More convenient are its folding features so it doesn’t have to remain out when not needed. It can automatically deploy once the lift has reached its destination. It’s ideal for areas such as outdoor decks, porches, or garage entries, without the need for a traditional ramp.
Some benefits of this model include the ability to reach heights up to 53 inches, which is suitable for most stairway barriers. It can accommodate lift devices up to 750 pounds, making it a versatile choice for people with all kinds of mobility devices.
Best of all, this lift is known for being user friendly, with clearly marked up or down arrows for ease of transportation, so those who have visual impairments can navigate with ease. The lift operates with a smoothness and low volume, ensuring a more pleasant user experience.
Commercial And Residential Platform Lifts In South Florida
Advanced Mobility Inc. understands the importance of maintaining independence despite physical limitations. Whether you or a loved one need a platform lift for the home, or you’re a business owner trying to be inclusive towards your customers, we have a wide range of both residential and commercial platform lifts.
Our platform lifts and other mobility products have helped improve the lives of many home and commercial owners in Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Monroe counties. Our products are designed to meet federal and regional compliance codes, so customers can have peace of mind during installation and daily use.
For a free consultation to learn more about products that fit your lifestyle and budget, call Advanced Mobility Inc today at 954-888-9292.