Hoyer Lift Repair Guide: Safe Use Relies on Timely Maintenance and Professional Repairs

As a critical device for the safe transfer of patients, the reliability of a Hoyer Lift is directly related to the safety of its users. However, no matter how robust and durable the equipment is, issues such as hydraulic leaks, battery failure, stuck outriggers, and worn slings may still occur during long-term use. Ignoring these "minor malfunctions" can at best reduce operational efficiency, and at worst lead to serious accidents such as equipment failure or patient falls.

Therefore, understanding the common malfunctions of Hoyer Lifts, mastering basic troubleshooting methods, and knowing when to seek professional repairs are important responsibilities for every caregiver and institutional manager. This article systematically introduces the repair principles of Hoyer Lifts, methods for addressing common problems, preventive maintenance recommendations, and when the equipment must be taken out of service and professional technicians contacted—helping you ensure the equipment remains in a safe and usable condition at all times.

I. Safety First: When Must the Equipment Be Immediately Taken Out of Service?

Before attempting any repairs, remember: safety always takes priority over convenience. If any of the following situations occur, hoyer lift repair stop using the equipment immediately and attach a "Malfunctioning - Awaiting Repair" label:

Outriggers cannot be fully extended or locked securely;

The equipment tilts or shakes significantly during lifting/lowering;

The sling has snags, mold spots, split seams, or deformed metal buckles;

Electric models automatically rise/lower without operation;

Manual models cannot maintain height (slowly descend halfway up);

Casters are loose, brakes fail, or the base has cracks.

Continuing to use equipment with hidden risks is not only irresponsible to patients but may also expose caregivers to legal liability.

II. Common Malfunctions and Countermeasures

1. Manual Hoyer Lift Fails to Lift or Has Insufficient Lifting Force

This is usually caused by hydraulic system issues:

Insufficient hydraulic oil or leaks: Check for oil stains on the base. If a leak is found, never add ordinary engine oil yourself—you must use hydraulic oil specified by the manufacturer, and have professional personnel replace the sealing ring.

Air trapped in the hydraulic system: This manifests as the handle being pumped multiple times but the boom not moving. hoyer lift repair Try pumping repeatedly 20–30 times to bleed air; if ineffective, the lift needs professional repair.

Never force overloading: Even if the equipment is rated for 350 lbs, operating near this limit will accelerate hydraulic system aging.

2. Electric Hoyer Lift Fails to Start or Loses Power Quickly

Battery aging: The battery life of an electric Hoyer Lift is usually 2–3 years. If it only supports a few lifts after being fully charged, the battery has degraded and needs to be replaced with an original manufacturer’s battery.

Charger or interface failure: Check if the charging indicator light is on and if the plug is loose. Some models support USB diagnostics to read error codes.

Motor overheating protection: Automatic shutdown after multiple consecutive lifts is a normal protection mechanism; it will recover after being left idle for 15 minutes. If triggered frequently, the motor may be overloaded—check if the track is jammed.

3. Outriggers Are Difficult to Extend or Locking Fails

This is often due to dust, hair, or carpet fibers getting stuck in the joints. Clean the hinges with a soft brush and regularly add a small amount of silicone-based lubricant (never use butter or WD-40, as they attract more dirt).If the locking pin spring is broken or deformed, the original manufacturer’s parts must be replaced—do not use wire or tape for temporary fixing.

4. Boom Descends Too Fast or Is Out of Control

Manual models: The internal sealing ring of the release valve is worn, causing hydraulic oil to flow back too quickly. hoyer lift repair This component requires special tools for disassembly; returning it to the factory for repair is recommended.

Electric models: If there is a fault in the control circuit or solenoid valve, do not disassemble it yourself—contact an authorized service provider.

5. Sling Hooks Fail to Close or Slip Off

Check if the hook spring is rusted or broken;

Confirm the lifting ring is not twisted or mismatched in size (slings from different brands may be incompatible);

If the hook has cracks, stop using it immediately—it is a high-risk component.

III. Daily Preventive Maintenance: Small Habits, Big Safety

Rather than waiting for malfunctions to occur, proactive maintenance is better. It is recommended to establish the following routine inspection system:

Before each use: Visually inspect outrigger locking, sling integrity, and smooth rotation of casters;

Weekly: Clean the equipment surface, check hydraulic oil level (for manual models), and test the emergency stop button (for electric models);

Monthly: Tighten all visible screws, lubricate outrigger joints, and check battery power and charging status;

Every 6 months: Have professional technicians conduct a comprehensive functional inspection, including load-bearing tests, circuit safety checks, and structural stability assessments.

In addition, slings must be managed separately: even if they appear intact, hoyer lift repair mandatory replacement every 6–12 months is recommended. Moisture, sweat, and cleaning agents all accelerate fiber aging, which is difficult to detect with the naked eye.

IV. When Must Professional Repairs Be Contacted?

Although some minor issues can be addressed independently, non-professionals are strictly prohibited from operating in the following situations:

Repairs involving the internal hydraulic system;

Replacement of circuit boards, motors, or batteries in electric models;

Bending, cracks, or loose welds in load-bearing structures such as the base, mast, or boom;

Continued use of the equipment after it has overturned or been impacted.

Formal Hoyer Lift brands (e.g., Arjo, Drive Medical, Medline) have authorized service centers nationwide. Repairing through official channels not only ensures the use of original parts but also preserves the equipment’s warranty eligibility. Never choose unprofessional repair shops to save money—a low-quality sealing ring can turn the entire device into a "time bomb."

V. Special Recommendations for Home Users

Home caregivers usually lack professional tools and knowledge, so they should pay more attention to "preventing problems before they occur":

When purchasing or renting, prioritize suppliers that offer on-site repair services;

Keep the equipment manual and customer service phone number, and attach them near the equipment;

Join user communities or follow brand official accounts to receive maintenance reminders;

If the equipment has been used for more than 5 years, even if there are no malfunctions, it is recommended to have professional personnel conduct a comprehensive evaluation.

Conclusion: Repairs Are Not a Cost, but Respect for Life

Every smooth lift of a Hoyer Lift is backed by countless carefully addressed details: a tightened screw, hoyer lift repair a timely replaced sling, and a professional annual inspection. Repairs and maintenance are never an extra burden, but an indispensable part of a safe care system.

As a senior nursing supervisor once said: "We are not afraid of old equipment, but of ignoring its warnings." When the 'click' sound of the outriggers extending is no longer crisp, or the lifting speed becomes sluggish—that is the equipment asking for help.

Listen to it and respond to it, because what it supports is not just weight, but trust and life.