On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Lift not moving up or down due to power, battery, handset, or connection issues that prevent actuator operation.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Remove the lift from active patient use before troubleshooting.
- Expected: Patient safely transferred to another lift or surface.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Attempt to operate both UP and DOWN functions using the handset.
- Expected: No movement or inconsistent movement from the lift.
- Why it matters: Confirms full function failure vs partial control issue.
Check Emergency Stop Button
- Inspect the emergency stop (E-stop) button. Twist or pull to reset if engaged.
- Expected: Button is released and unit powers normally.
- Why it matters: Engaged E-stop completely disables lift movement.
- If lift operates after reset → stop troubleshooting.
Check Battery Charge and Seating
- Verify battery is installed correctly and fully seated in the lift. Check battery charge indicator.
- Expected: Battery shows adequate charge and is securely connected.
- Why it matters: Low or disconnected battery prevents actuator movement.
- Swap with a known good battery if available.
- If lift operates → stop troubleshooting.
Inspect Battery Charger Function (if applicable)
- Place battery on charger and confirm charging indicators activate.
- Expected: Charger lights indicate normal charging.
- Why it matters: A failed charger can lead to repeated dead batteries.
Check Hand Control (Pendant)
- Inspect handset cable for damage and ensure it is fully connected to the control box.
- Test all buttons.
- Expected: Buttons respond and send commands to lift.
- Why it matters: Damaged or disconnected handset is a common failure point.
- If available, swap with a known good handset.
- If lift operates → stop troubleshooting.
Inspect Cables and Connections
- Check all visible cables between control box, actuator, and power system. Ensure all connectors are fully seated.
- Expected: No loose, pinched, or damaged cables.
- Why it matters: Loose connections interrupt signal or power to actuator.
Observe for Motor/Actuator Response
- Activate lift while listening for motor noise.
- Expected: Motor sound during operation attempt.
- Motor runs but no movement: Possible mechanical or actuator issue
- No motor sound: Possible control box, battery, or wiring issue
- Why it matters: Helps isolate electrical vs mechanical failure.
Check for Mechanical Obstruction
- Inspect lift mast, boom, and lifting mechanism for binding, obstruction, or visible damage.
- Expected: Smooth, unobstructed movement path.
- Why it matters: Physical binding can prevent actuator movement.
If the Problem Persists
If all external power, battery, handset, and connection issues have been ruled out, the problem is likely internal (actuator, control box, or internal wiring failure).
Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and ensures proper repair handling.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot a patient lift while a patient is suspended. Always transfer the patient safely before beginning any evaluation.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Lift would not raise or lower when attempting to move patient."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Discharged battery not supplying sufficient power to actuator."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced battery with charged unit; verified full lift operation."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Battery charge level verified
- Known-good battery tested
- Handset swapped/tested
- Emergency stop status
- Motor noise present or absent
- Cable condition checked
- Final device status (returned to service or sent to repair)
Final Thought
Patient lifts rely heavily on simple power and control components. Start with battery, E-stop, and handset before assuming actuator failure. Safe escalation is key when movement is compromised.
That is successful troubleshooting.