Northern Californians have learned to plan for the power going off, whether from a winter storm, a heat wave or a planned safety shutoff during fire season. If you rely on a lift or an elevator, you should know exactly how it behaves when that happens.
Stair lifts
A stair lift runs on its own batteries, which are kept charged from a wall outlet. When the power fails, the lift carries on working from the stored charge. How many trips you get depends on the battery condition and the length of the stairs, so use it sparingly during a long outage.
Home elevators
Residential elevators are equipped with an emergency lowering system. If the power fails while you are riding, the elevator brings the cab to a landing so that you can get out. It is not usually designed to keep making normal trips without power. Ask your installer exactly what your model does.
Platform lifts
Many platform lifts are available with battery backup or a manual lowering feature. Check which your lift has and learn how to use it.
Before an outage
- Read the section of the owner’s manual on power failure
- Keep a flashlight in or near the elevator
- Make sure the stair lift is parked on its charger
- Have batteries checked at each service visit
- Sign up for outage alerts from your utility
When a shutoff is announced
- Decide which floor you want to be on and move there beforehand
- Bring down anything you will need
- Charge phones and medical devices
Backup power
A home battery system or a standby generator can keep an elevator in service. Have an electrician confirm that the system is sized for the elevator’s demand and wired correctly. Tell your elevator company what you are installing.
If you depend on the equipment
Anyone who cannot use the stairs at all should have a written plan for outages, including who to call. Utilities offer programs for customers with medical needs, and it is worth registering.
Questions about your equipment?
Nationwide Lifts of Northern California can explain how the products we install behave without power. Call 888-323-8755.