What does "End of Life" mean for a ceiling lift?
A common question from our customers is, “how many years should we expect our ceiling lift be in service?” As an industry standard, when a lift is properly used and properly maintained, the life of a ceiling lift should be 7 – 10 years.As your lift enters its later stages in its product life cycle, users should be aware of the signs mentioned below that may indicate your lift is nearing its “end of life”.
Did you know? Each manufacturer is required to place a label on their lifts that offers general information about the device, including the manufacturer, voltage, battery details, ratings, serial number, and manufacture date (MFG Date), along with various symbols/certifications of the device. Below offers various label examples from lift manufacturers, and we have highlighted where to look for the MFG Date on your lift. If your lift is older than 10 years, it is time to replace it.
How to Locate MFG Date on a Ceiling Lift?
What are the signs that a ceiling lift may be approaching "End of Life"?
The purpose of a patient ceiling lift is to safely move and transfer a patient while promote safe maneuverability for the caregiver. As the ceiling lift ages, there may be signs that your lift is approaching "end of life", including but not limited to:
A decrease in overall performance with intended use. You may notice that the lift is struggling to lift and move a patient within the intended weight guidelines and moves slower during operation compared to previous usages.
Unusual motor noises. When performing intended patient movements and transfers within the intended weight guidelines, the motor makes strange noises or operates inconsistently.
An increase in maintenance. Aside from intended care and maintenance to ensure proper operations, there is an increase in recurring repairs, equipment failure, malfunctioning, or parts needing replacement.
A growing concern for patient and caregiver safety. If the lift is out of warranty, outside of current safe patient handling and movement guidelines, or replacement parts are no longer available, then "end of life" may be the case. Trying to "fix" without manufacturer supplied parts or consistent lift failures places risk of injury to both the patient and the caregiver.
Discontinued parts, service, or support. Whether due to newer product models, company acquisition, discontinuation, or just no longer in business, ceiling lifts need to be safe. When situations occur where a lift is no longer supported or actively available in the market, then "end of life" may be accelerated due to the lack of service support, technical support, or parts available.
Product wear and tear. Whether visual or audible, structural issues of the lift itself can impacting the proper operations of the ceiling lift. Visually, cracks, dents, and damage of the lift, rail, and sling should be evaluated. Similarly, hearing any noises such as cracking, squealing, or snapping should be considered and usage of the equipment should be stopped until the lift is deemed safe or replaced.
What Occurs at the Ceiling Lift "End of Life"?
Depending upon the specific environment (hospital, nursing home, or home), options do exist at end of life for your ceiling lifts.
- Replacement - when a ceiling lift has reached "end of life", replacing the lift is typically the next step. However, keep in mind that it is not necessary to replace the entire track system. Lifts can be replaced without replacing the track system. Not certain what type of lift works with the installed track, simply use our ceiling track identification guide and then share your track type. Mackworth lifts offer various track trolley systems to be compatible with a 5 standard track types.
- Decommissioning / Recycling - if it is determined that the ceiling lift is no longer needed, then many components may be recycled or disposed of safely. Consult with your local medical equipment dealer or the lift manufacturer to learn more.
Remember, investment in a ceiling lift assists with safely moving, handling, and transport a patient while reducing risks of caregiver injury. Regular maintenance, equipment evaluations, and working condition assessments may extend longevity and safe operation of ceiling lifts.