The Lifeline of Hoyer Lifts: A Comprehensive Guide to Batteries and Power Systems

Hoyer Lifts are crucial equipment in many home care settings, and their power core—the battery—is the absolute foundation for ensuring their normal operation. Once the battery malfunctions, the entire transfer process comes to a halt, and it may even put the user in danger. This article will provide you with all the essential knowledge about Hoyer Lift batteries.

Core Types: Built-in vs. External

The battery systems of Hoyer Lifts mainly fall into two categories, and understanding the type of your equipment is the first step.

Built-in Sealed Lead-Acid Batteries

Description: This is the most common type in modern electric Hoyer Lifts. The battery is sealed inside the main body or base of the equipment and cannot be easily removed.

Advantages: Tidy and integrated, with no need to handle separate battery components.

Charging Method: Charging is done by directly connecting a power cord to the lift body. There is usually a charging indicator light on the equipment.

Commonly Used In: Most mobile electric lifts from brands such as ArjoHuntleigh and Invacare.

External Replaceable Batteries

Description: In some older or specific models of lifts, the battery is an independent, detachable unit, usually placed on the base or connected via a cable.

Advantages: You can prepare a fully charged spare battery and replace it immediately when the main battery runs out of power, achieving "seamless transition."

Disadvantages: It is slightly cumbersome to manage multiple batteries and chargers.

Commonly Used In: Some older models or industrial-grade lifts.

When to Replace the Battery?

Batteries are consumables, and their lifespan is usually 1 to 3 years, depending on usage frequency and charging habits. The following signs indicate that the battery may be about to fail:

Decreased Performance: The lift’s ascending and descending speeds slow down significantly.

Insufficient Battery Life: After being fully charged, the battery runs out of power after only a few lifting operations, which is far below the normal level.

Inability to Fully Charge: The charging indicator shows that the battery can never be fully charged, or the power is quickly depleted shortly after charging.

Complete Failure to Operate: The equipment shows no response when connected to power (you need to first rule out issues with fuses or power supplies).

How to Replace the Battery? (Important Guide)

Safety first! Before performing any operations, be sure to read the equipment manual.

For Built-in Sealed Batteries

Confirm the Model: Find the exact model and battery specifications (voltage, ampere-hours) on the lift body or in the manual.

Contact Professionals: It is strongly recommended to contact the authorized medical equipment supplier where you purchased the device or a professional maintenance service provider.

Professional Replacement: Technicians will safely open the equipment casing, disconnect the old battery, and install a new battery that meets the original factory specifications. This ensures the tightness and safety of the equipment and avoids damage to precision circuits.

For External Replaceable Batteries

Purchase the Correct Model: Buy original or compatible batteries according to the equipment model. Ensure the voltage, ampere-hours, and interface are fully matched.

Safe Operation:

Turn off the equipment power.

Unplug the charger.

Disconnect the connecting wires of the old battery according to the instructions (usually simple plugs or terminals).

Remove the old battery, insert the new battery, and connect it firmly.

Initial Charging: After replacing the new battery, it is usually necessary to perform a complete, long-term charge (which may take up to 12-24 hours) to activate the battery performance.

Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions

Problem Possible Causes Solutions

The lift shows no response at all 1. Power is not connected.

2. The battery is completely discharged or damaged.

3. The fuse is blown. 1. Check if the power socket and connecting wires are properly plugged in.

2. Try charging for at least several hours.

3. Check the fuse on the equipment (refer to the manual).

The lift moves slowly 1. Low battery power.

2. Battery aging. 1. Charge immediately.

2. If the problem persists after charging, the battery may need to be replaced.

The charging indicator does not light up 1. Charger malfunction.

2. Power supply issue.

3. Damage to the equipment’s charging port. 1. Try plugging the charger into another socket.

2. Check if the charger cable is damaged.

3. Contact the supplier for inspection.

Best Practices and Safety Tips

Establish Charging Habits

Daily Charging: Develop the habit of charging the equipment immediately after each use, rather than waiting until the battery is depleted.

Avoid Over-Discharging: Do not let the battery fully discharge before recharging, as this will significantly shorten its lifespan.

Regular Use: Even if the lift is not used frequently, it is recommended to perform a complete charge-discharge cycle at least once a month to maintain battery health.

Prepare Emergency Plans

Understand the location and operation method of the manual release valve. In emergency situations where the battery is completely dead, you can manually lower the boom through this valve to allow the user to exit safely.

Practice manual operation: Ensure all caregivers know how to operate the equipment manually in emergency situations.

Use Original or Certified Accessories

Using non-original or incompatible chargers may damage the battery or even pose a fire risk.

Battery Storage and Disposal

Store the equipment in a cool, dry place, avoiding extreme temperatures.

Waste batteries should be recycled in accordance with local regulations and must not be discarded with regular garbage.

Conclusion

The battery of a Hoyer Lift is its beating heart. By understanding the battery type, recognizing signs for replacement, following safe replacement procedures, and developing good charging habits, you can ensure that this vital care equipment is always ready when you need it most. When encountering uncertain issues, always prioritize contacting professional service personnel to ensure the safety and reliability of the equipment.