Cleaning your pool lift
Regular cleaning of your pool lift is essential to maintain its appearance. This cleaning plan applies to all types of lift: manual, electric or hydraulic.
Cleaning
This plan includes a complete cleaning of all pool lift components. Insufficient cleaning will lead to the accumulation of chlorine and other aggressive chemicals which will exceed the corrosion resistance of the stainless steel and other materials used in the lift. The frequency of cleaning required depends on the environment in which the lift is installed. The table at the end of the page (PDF) is a guide to recommended cleaning intervals for different types of pool environment.
Cleaning swimming pool lifts in harsh environments
Some pool environments are more corrosive to metal equipment than others. Environments considered highly corrosive include: indoor pools, salt or seawater pools, and outdoor pools in coastal areas.
In an indoor swimming pool environment, chlorine and other chemical compounds are permanently deposited on the surfaces of the pool components, even when the pool is not in use. In this context, the lifts should be rinsed thoroughly with fresh water on a daily basis. More thorough cleaning with mild soap (non-chlorinated, pH neutral, such as washing-up liquid) and hot water is recommended at least every fortnight, ideally every week.
Similarly, lifts installed on saltwater or seawater pools and outdoor pools in coastal areas should be rinsed thoroughly with fresh, hot water on a daily basis, with cleaning with mild soap (non-chlorinated, pH neutral, washing-up liquid type) strongly recommended on a weekly basis.
Cleaning swimming pool lifts in mild to moderate environments
Outdoor, non-salt or seawater pools and outdoor pools in non-coastal areas are considered to have mild to moderately corrosive environments. In these environments, it is advisable to rinse the wheelchair thoroughly with fresh water every day after it has been used. More thorough cleaning with mild soap (non-chlorinated, pH neutral, washing-up liquid type) and hot water is recommended once or twice a month, depending on the particular environment. The wheelchair must be cleaned before any chemical deposits or traces of oxidation appear.
Cleaning process
Daily cleaning :
• thoroughly rinse all external components of the pool lift with fresh water
Weekly cleaning :
• clean all external components of the PMR lift thoroughly with warm fresh water and mild soap.
• Wipe all external components of the pool lift with a soft cloth soaked in hot soapy water.
• In some cases, it may be necessary to use a soft nylon brush to remove rust and stains.
• If the pool lift is fitted with a jack (manual, electric or hydraulic), put the jack in the extended position so that the stainless steel sliding tube of the jack can be cleaned completely.
• After thoroughly scrubbing all surfaces with the cleaning solution, rinse the pool lift thoroughly in fresh water.
• A car-type polish (wax) can be applied to maintain the finish of the pool lifter between scheduled cleanings.
• Metal components of the pool lift that are not epoxy-painted (winches, gears, fittings, etc.) are more exposed to corrosion and staining. Special care must be taken when cleaning them. Using a recommended protector (such as LPS-3) to clean these uncoated surfaces will minimise oxidation and maintain the appearance of these parts. For stainless steel components not coated with epoxy paint, we can recommend the use of the following products: Innosoft B570 to remove oxidation and rust stains and Innoprotect B580 for cleaning, maintenance and protection.
Do not use chlorine-based cleaners on metal components, abrasive cleaners or steel wool. All these elements can damage the surface of the pool lift components and encourage oxidation.