Are you looking for a way to keep your boat safe and secure? Look no further than electric boat lifts! Electric boat lifts are the perfect solution for anyone who needs their boat stored safely out of the water. They offer convenience, security and peace of mind that can’t be matched by any other type of lift. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at what makes electric boat lifts so great, and why they’re becoming increasingly popular with boaters all around the world.
Electric boat lifts provide quick access to your vessel without having to worry about launching it or pulling it from the dock manually. With just one press of button, you can easily lower or raise your boat into position – meaning there’s no need to wait for tides or currents before getting on board. Plus, as these lifts come equipped with various types of safety mechanisms such as anti-slip treads, automatic locks and brakes, rest assured that your valuable asset is always protected against theft or damage caused by storms.
Finally, electric boat lifts also allow for easy maintenance since most models come with built-in cleaning systems which make scrubbing away algae buildup on the hull much easier than ever before. Now you have more time to enjoy being out on the water instead of worrying about keeping up with necessary upkeep tasks. So if you’re ready to take advantage of all these benefits (and more!), then read on to learn everything you need to know about electric boat lifts!
Read More About: Boat Lifting A Comprehensive Guide
Benefits Of Installing An Electric Boat Lift
According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, almost 12 million boats were in use across the US in 2019. Installing an electric boat lift is a great way to protect your vessel from wear and tear caused by being docked at sea or lake shorelines. With an electric boat lift, you can enjoy all of the benefits associated with owning a boat without compromising on safety. Here are some advantages of installing one:
Firstly, it helps keep your boat safe from environmental factors such as wind, waves, and debris that may damage its hull. An electric lift also eliminates the need for manual labor when docking or undocking your vessel. This means less time wasted while hauling around heavy anchors and lines – saving you both energy and money.
Secondly, having an electric boat lift allows you to create more space for other activities like fishing and swimming near your dock. You won’t have to worry about navigating through crowded dockside areas since motorboats will be lifted out of the water instead of left moored there. Additionally, this provides better visibility so that boaters can easily spot any underwater obstacles that could cause potential harm to their vessels.
Thirdly, electric lifts come equipped with sensors that detect changes in weather conditions which can help warn owners if their boats become vulnerable during storms or strong winds. This feature ensures maximum protection against natural elements even when no one is operating the vessel. Furthermore, they often include features such as remote control operation and LED lighting systems which make them easy-to-use anytime day or night!
Overall, investing in an electric boat lift offers many practical benefits beyond simply keeping your vessel out of the water; it increases convenience and peace of mind knowing that your investment is well-protected at all times!
Types Of Electric Boat Lifts
Electric boat lifts are commonly used to keep vessels out of the water. They come in different sizes and shapes, allowing for a wide variety of boats to be lifted from the water. Here is an overview of some types of electric boat lifts:
- Vertical Lifts – Vertical lifts lift your vessel straight up and down using either cables or hydraulic systems. This type of lift is great if you have limited space on your dock since it requires minimal side clearance.
- Hydraulic Lifts – Hydraulic lifts provide smooth lifting motion with a more powerful motor than vertical lifts. These are typically most expensive option but can accommodate larger vessels than other types of electric boat lifts.
- PWC (Personal Watercraft) Lifts – PWCs require their own special type of electric boat lift due to their size and shape. PWCs require less power than traditional boats, so these specialized lifts feature smaller motors that don’t cost as much money to operate.
- Drive On/Off Boat Lifts – Drive on/off electric boat lifts allow you to drive onto the platform which automatically submerges enough for you to get off without getting wet. Once you’re done, the platform will slowly raise back up above the surface again.
Overall, there’s no one-size fits all when it comes to choosing an electric boat lift; however, understanding what each type has to offer can help you make an informed decision about which style best suits your needs and budget. It’s important to note that any type of lift should only be installed by experienced professionals who know exactly how to install them properly for maximum safety and performance purposes.
Installation Process For An Electric Boat Lift
Installing an electric boat lift can seem like a daunting task, but with the right preparation and knowledge it can be relatively straightforward. To begin with, one must first decide on what type of installation they want for their boat lift; whether that means a floating dock system or a cantilever design. Once that decision has been made, then there are several steps necessary to get the job done correctly.
The first step in installing an electric boat lift is ensuring you have all the necessary materials and tools needed for the job at hand. This includes things like secure brackets, screws, anchor bolts, wiring cable, motorized pulleys, and electrical power supplies. It’s important to make sure these items are purchased ahead of time so nothing gets overlooked during installation process.
The second step in this process is mounting the lift onto its intended location. Depending on which type of setup was chosen earlier will determine how exactly this needs to be done. For example if going with a cantilever design then each corner of the frame would need to be securely mounted into place using lag bolts or equivalent fasteners while also making sure any wires from various components such as motorized pulleys remain out of harm’s way when lifting and lowering your vessel off/onto watercraft trailer respectively. On the other hand if opting for a floating dock system than more complex assembly techniques may apply due to amount of additional hardware required such as pilings & related hardware pieces associated with them as well as adding extra supports underneath structure itself depending on size/weight load demanded by particular application being used for.
Thirdly once everything is set up properly it’s advised to test run whole operation beforehand just ensure all components work together cohesively before attempting actual usage scenario since last thing anyone wants is having problems arise after already completing project instead getting those resolved early-on. Ensure that both motorized pulleys move freely along respective track systems without issue (by either manually cranking them back forth or engaging power supply) because if not working properly could lead potential safety hazards down line when actually operating equipment later down road plus ultimately reduce longevity thereof over time due natural wear tear anyway so better safe than sorry approach always recommended here!
With proper planning & execution involved installing electric boat lifts doesn’t have be difficult endeavor albeit still requires attention detail ensure everything works perfectly end result should very satisfying knowing now able enjoy your new addition worry free manner possible!
Maintenance And Care Guidelines For An Electric Boat Lift
Once an electric boat lift has been installed, it is important to take proper care of the equipment. Following a few simple maintenance and care guidelines will ensure that your electric boat lift remains in good working condition for years to come.
First, check all bolts and screws regularly to make sure they remain tight. This includes checking the mounting hardware as well as any adjustable parts on the electric boat lift itself. If you find any loose fasteners or other signs of wear, replace them immediately.
Second, inspect the cables often for fraying or broken strands. It’s also important to lubricate the moving parts at least once per season with a waterproof grease or oil designed specifically for marine use. Additionally, be sure to keep debris such as leaves and dirt out of the mechanism so it doesn’t interfere with its operation.
Third, inspect the electrical wiring annually for corrosion or damage caused by weather exposure and animal activity. Replace corroded wire immediately and if necessary contact a licensed professional to check all connections between components for safety reasons.
Finally, apply fresh paint every two-three years if needed; this will help protect against rusting due to moisture exposure from waves splashing up onto the boat lift platform or water dripping into hard-to-reach areas where corrosion can occur without detection over time. Proper maintenance and care will go a long way towards keeping your electric boat lift functioning smoothly year after year!
Safety Considerations For Installing An Electric Boat Lift
Safety should always be a top priority when installing an electric boat lift. It’s important to ensure that the area is free of debris, such as rocks and sticks, or any other objects that could potentially harm the lift. Additionally, it’s recommended to have a qualified technician inspect and install the lift for proper safety precautions.
It’s also important to use caution when operating an electric boat lift. Make sure you follow all instructions provided in the instruction manual carefully before operating the lift. Do not attempt to operate any machinery without knowledge of how it works. Keep children far away from any moving parts while using the lift, as they can cause serious injury if not handled properly.
If your electric boat lift is equipped with winches, be sure to check them regularly for signs of corrosion or damage. If there are any visible issues, contact a professional immediately who can repair or replace the damaged part(s). Take extra care around electricity and water; never plug anything into an outlet near water unless instructed by a qualified technician.
When it comes time to store your electric boat lift during winter months, make sure it’s completely dry before covering or storing it indoors. Doing so will help prevent rusting and extend its lifespan significantly. Taking these few steps will guarantee maximum safety and longevity for your electric boat lift – don’t forget them!
Different Uses For Electric Boat Lifts
Beyond just being a safe and secure way to store your boat, electric boat lifts can be used for more than just storage. The possibilities are virtually limitless. Boaters everywhere can take advantage of the convenience that these useful devices provide.
One possible use is as an anchoring system for a dock or pier in shallow water conditions. Electric boat lifts offer a simple solution to those who don’t want the hassle of dealing with traditional anchor systems when navigating difficult waterways. Not only do they save time, but they also reduce stress and fatigue while providing additional safety measures in hazardous areas.
Additionally, if you’re looking for ways to improve the look of your waterfront property, consider installing an electric boat lift on a floating platform or barge near the shoreline. This type of arrangement provides easy access to your vessel while making it easier to launch from dry land without having to put up walls or other structures along the waterfront area. Plus, this setup allows you to enjoy unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape without any obstructions blocking your view.
Electric boat lifts also make great dockside party centers where family and friends can gather around and spend quality time together outdoors enjoying their favorite activities – like fishing, swimming, sunbathing, sightseeing, or simply watching boats go by! With all these features combined into one device, boaters have plenty of options when it comes to finding uses for their electric boat lifts beyond using them as storage solutions alone. Whether you’re looking for something practical or something fun, there’s sure to be a perfect application out there waiting for you!
Advantages Of Using An Electric Boat Lift
Electric boat lifts offer a variety of advantages for those who own boats. Firstly, they are much easier to operate than manual models. This is because the user only needs to press a button or two to raise and lower their vessel from the water. There’s no need for complicated winches or levers; electric motors do all the work for you. Secondly, electric boat lifts provide increased security when mooring your boat in a marina. The motor can be locked with a key, preventing anyone from accessing it without permission. Additionally, these lifts come with advanced safety features such as automatic shut-off switches that turn off power if something goes wrong while operating them. Finally, using an electric lift also helps reduce maintenance costs since there’s less wear and tear on parts due to automated operation versus manual effort. Consequently, this means fewer repairs and replacements are necessary over time which saves money in the long run. Overall, electric boat lifts offer many benefits compared to traditional methods of docking and mooring vessels.
Cost Estimations For Installing An Electric Boat Lift
The installation of an electric boat lift is not only beneficial for the convenience and time-saving advantages, but can also be a great investment. In this section, we will discuss cost estimations for installing such a device in your home.
To begin with, it should be noted that there are various types of electric boat lifts available on the market today; each type typically carries its own unique price tag. The two most common options are hydraulic or air-powered lifts which range from around $7000 to upwards of $20,000 depending on their size and capacity. Additionally, many companies offer special financing packages as well as service plans that help make these purchases more affordable over time.
| Type | Capacity | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hydraulic | Up To 10,000 lbs | $7,000 – $10,000 |
| Air-Powered | Up To 20,000 lbs | $12,000 – $20,000 |
Another factor to consider when looking into purchasing an electric boat lift is labor costs associated with installation. This could include anything from running electricity lines to mounting brackets onto docks or piers. A general rule of thumb is that professional labor often ranges between 15-25% of the total cost – so it’s wise to plan accordingly! An experienced installer may even recommend additional features (such as a backup generator) that would increase overall expenses but provide long lasting peace of mind.
Finally – beyond initial purchase and installation fees – one must take operation costs into account as well. Most models require some form of regular maintenance including lubrication every few months to ensure optimal performance and safety standards are met at all times. On top of this routine upkeep however, certain parts may need replacing over time due to wear and tear which can add up quickly if neglected! All things considered – investing in an electric boat lift is no small expense – but when done right can pay off handsomely down the line!
Dimensions And Specifications Of Available Models
Electric boat lifts come in a variety of dimensions and specifications, depending on the needs of the user. The most basic models are small, typically with an overall length up to 12 feet and width of about 5 feet. These electric boat lifts can be raised or lowered using two hydraulic cylinders that can lift boats up to 1,200 pounds.
Larger models are available as well, measuring up to 20 feet long and 8 feet wide. These larger models have four hydraulic cylinders for lifting heavier boats – generally weighing up to 4,000 pounds. Some also feature adjustable bunks which makes them ideal for boats with deep hulls such as pontoons and tritoons.
The majority of electric boat lifts will include features like a canopy top made from durable polyester fabric that helps protect your vessel against UV rays and extreme weather conditions. Many models also feature stainless steel frames for superior strength and corrosion resistance over time while some offer optional add-ons like solar panel kits to provide power when needed.
Finally, it’s important to consider what type of dock you’ll be installing the electric boat lift onto before making any purchase decisions, since not all docks may accommodate certain sizes or types of lifts. It’s always best to consult with an experienced professional who can recommend the right model based on your specific needs.
Popular Brands Of Electric Boat Lifts
When it comes to electric boat lifts, there are several popular brands on the market. One of the most well-known is HydroHoist. This brand offers a range of different models that come with features like adjustable arms and stainless steel cables for an easy lifting process. Another option is ShoreStation, which has been around since 1973 and specializes in high quality aluminum boat lifts that can be customized to suit any size or type of vessel.
Next up is Boat Lift World’s Lifts 4 Less line. These lifts feature four independently controlled motors for smooth operation and include numerous safety features such as overload protection systems and automatic shut off controls. They also provide buyers with various options when it comes to design elements like color, length, and width so they can find the perfect fit for their specific needs.
Finally, there’s EconoLift by PowerTower Products: these economical yet reliable lifts are designed for shallow water applications or locations where space is at a premium. The single motor system ensures easy installation while its solid aluminum construction provides superior strength and support against corrosion, making them perfect for long-term use in marine environments.
Whether you’re looking for something basic or more advanced, these top brands offer high quality electric boat lift solutions that make enjoying your time out on the water even easier than before!
Styles And Designs Of Electric Boat Lifts
An electric boat lift is like a bridge between the dock and the water. It can help you get safely to your destination while protecting your vessel from harsh weather conditions, fishing debris, or other dangers. There are many styles and designs of electric boat lifts available on the market today:
- Hydraulic Boat Lifts – These types of lifts use hydraulic cylinders to raise and lower boats with ease. They are typically constructed out of aluminum or stainless steel for maximum durability. The lifting capacity ranges from 2,000 up to 5,000 pounds depending on size and type.
- PWC (Personal Watercraft) Lifts – Designed specifically for personal watercrafts such as jet skis, kayaks, etc., these lifts come in various sizes ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 lbs capacity. Many features include adjustable widths and heights for most models to fit any size craft as well as removable rails for easy storage when not in use.
- Pontoon Lifts – Perfectly designed for pontoon boats up to 8-feet wide and 4-feet tall weighing up to 3000lbs; this type of lift allows quick access into and out of the water with minimal effort needed by hand winch operated cable systems or electric motors that provide powerful lifting force without straining yourself!
- Bunk Lifts – A bunk lift is an ideal choice if you need something that doesn’t require much maintenance but still looks good in its environment. This style uses two bunks which hold onto either side of the boat providing support during transit into/out of the lake or river bed. Bunk lifts generally have capacities reaching 10,000 lbs depending on their structure’s strength rating so they can be used even when carrying heavy loads!
Electric boat lifts offer convenience, safety, protection from the elements and more importantly peace of mind knowing your investment is secure against damage caused by waves or wind gusts at sea level – all without breaking a sweat!
Comparisons Between Manual & Electric Boat Lifts
Now that we have established the various styles and designs of electric boat lifts, it is beneficial to compare them against manual boat lifts. This comparison will help us further understand which type of lift is most suitable for each individual’s needs.
| Manual Boat Lifts | Electric Boat Lifts |
|---|---|
| Low Cost | High Cost |
| Easy Installation | Difficult Installtion |
| Limited Motorization Options | Variety Of Motorization Options |
Manual boat lifts are typically cheaper than their electric counterparts due to their low cost parts and easy installation process. They provide a reliable solution without having to worry about electricity or wiring being necessary. However, they do not offer as much motorization options since they operate on manual cranking mechanisms.
Conversely, electric boat lifts tend to be more expensive in terms of initial purchase price and installation costs due to its complex wiring system needed. Nonetheless, these lifts offer an extensive range of motorization choices with different lifting capabilities according to individual preferences. Moreover, they can come with remote control systems giving users greater control over the operation of the lift.
Overall, both manual and electric boat lifts serve the same purpose but differ greatly when it comes down to features being offered by each one such as cost effectiveness, installation difficulty and degree of motorization available. The choice depends solely on what suits best for your budget and requirements from a boat lift solution.
Regulations For Installing & Operating An Electric Boat Lift
It is important to be aware of the regulations for installing and operating an electric boat lift. Generally, it is best to consult with a local municipality before beginning any project of this kind. Additionally, many towns have their own specific requirements regarding these types of lifts.
When installing an electric boat lift, there are general safety measures that must be followed. These include making sure that all wiring used in the installation meets current electrical codes, as well as ensuring that the dock or pier’s structure can safely support the weight of the lift. It is also important to make sure that the power supply is properly grounded so as not to create a shock hazard for anyone working near or on the lift.
Once installed, proper operation of an electric boat lift requires regular maintenance and inspection. This includes checking all moving parts regularly for signs of wear and tear, lubricating them when necessary, and inspecting wiring connections for corrosion or damage. All users should follow instructions about how to use the controls safely in order to prevent accidents or injury from occurring while using the lift.
In addition to following safety protocols during installation and operation, it is essential to comply with local laws concerning such devices. Depending on where one lives, additional permits may need to be obtained prior to installation or certain restrictions may apply pertaining to noise levels and other factors related to its use. Following these guidelines will help ensure compliance with applicable laws and safe operation of an electric boat lift.
Troubleshooting Common Problems With Electric Boat Lifts
Troubleshooting common problems with electric boat lifts can often be done by the owner. In some cases, having a professional technician look at the lift may be necessary if the problem is more serious. There are several things to check when troubleshooting an electric boat lift.
One of the most important steps is making sure that all connections and wires are secure so they don’t come loose while in use. This includes checking any fuse boxes or circuit breakers for damage or corrosion. It’s also worth taking a look at any switches or buttons on the lift, as these should all be working correctly. If any of them do not work properly, it could potentially cause major issues with the operation of the lift.
It’s also important to inspect all cables and pulleys to make sure they aren’t frayed or damaged in any way. Any worn parts should be replaced immediately since they will only continue to deteriorate over time and become even more dangerous. Additionally, it’s recommended to lubricate all moving parts regularly so that everything runs smoothly without issue.
If none of these potential solutions seem to solve your problem with your electric boat lift, then you’ll likely need help from a qualified technician who knows how to diagnose and fix whatever might be wrong with it. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance if needed; after all, safety is paramount when using this type of equipment!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take To Install An Electric Boat Lift?
Installing an electric boat lift can be a big job, but the results are worth it. Imagine gliding off your dock onto calm waters in one smooth motion with your own private marina waiting for you when you return. Installing a lift takes time and effort, but there’s nothing quite like having your own personal launch ramp to get out on the water.
The amount of time needed to install an electric boat lift varies depending upon many factors such as size and complexity of the design. If the area is prepped properly then installation should not take too long; however, if additional site preparation or customization needs to be done before installation begins, this could add extra hours or days to the project timeline. Additionally, any unforeseen complications that arise during installation may also increase length of time required for completion.
When installing an electric boat lift there are typically some common components which need to be installed correctly: mounting brackets and supports, power supply cables, pulleys and winches, safety straps and other accessories necessary for proper operation. Depending on what type of materials being used for these components will determine how much time it takes to install them properly. For example, if all parts are standard items then assembly should only take a few hours; however if custom fabrication is required then that could significantly lengthen the process taking several days or even weeks until everything is up and running properly.
No matter how long it takes to put together an electric boat lift system once complete you will have peace of mind knowing that your investment has been well spent giving you years of worry-free enjoyment out on the water!
Are Electric Boat Lifts Only Suitable For Certain Types Of Boats?
When it comes to boat lifts, electric models are becoming increasingly popular. But with the added convenience of electricity does come some restrictions. Are electric boat lifts only suitable for certain types of boats? Let’s take a closer look at this question and explore the answer.
In most cases, any type of small-to-medium sized vessel is compatible with an electric lift. This includes pontoon boats, sailboats, kayaks, canoes, fishing vessels, speedboats and more. The key feature that makes these boat types suitable is their weight capacity; they must weigh no more than 4500 pounds when fully loaded in order to be safe on an electric boat lift.
Despite this restriction on size and weight, there are still several advantages to using an electric lift over other models such as manual or hydraulic systems. For one thing, having electricity connected directly to the lift means you won’t need a generator or gas engine to operate it – making them ideal if you’re looking for a quieter boating experience. Additionally, they tend to require less maintenance compared to traditional methods which can help save time and money in the long run.
Electric boat lifts also offer greater control over how your boat is stored and lifted out of water. With adjustable settings available from most manufacturers you’ll have full access to adjust the height and angle of your vessel so it’s exactly where you want it before launching into open waters. Overall, electric boat lifts give users greater peace of mind knowing their vessel will stay secure while docked safely in place until needed again for use.
What Is The Average Life Span Of An Electric Boat Lift?
Performance of an electric boat lift is comparable to the beating heart of a well-built machine. It offers years of reliable service, but it’s important to understand its average life span in order to make the best decision for your needs.
When it comes to electric boat lifts, you need to consider several factors before making a purchase. Firstly, what type and size of boats are you lifting? Obviously bigger vessels will require more power from the motor as well as additional support which affects the longevity of the lift. Secondly, how often is the lift being used? Regular use can cause wear and tear on any component over time. Lastly, regular maintenance should be taken into consideration; this includes checking cable tension, lubricating moving parts and replacing any worn out components when necessary.
The expected life expectancy of an electric boat lift system depends heavily on these factors as well as quality of workmanship and materials used during installation. Generally speaking however, most models have an average lifetime of 10-15 years with proper care and attention given to routine maintenance checks.
It’s also worth noting that some manufacturers offer warranties or guarantees on their products so make sure to enquire about that prior to buying one if possible. To ensure maximum performance from your electric boat lift it pays off greatly in both convenience and money saved by having regular checkups done throughout its lifespan and taking steps towards preventative measures whenever needed.
Are Electric Boat Lifts More Expensive Than Manual Boat Lifts?
Electric boat lifts are a great way to raise and lower your watercraft. But, is it more expensive than manual boat lifts? It’s important to understand the differences between these two types of boat lifts before making any decisions.
First, electric boat lifts have several advantages over manual ones:
- They provide greater convenience for users since they can be operated with the push of a button or remote control.
- The motors used in electric lifts require less maintenance than those found in manual models.
- Electric models typically last longer due to their strong construction and robust materials.
- And finally, electric boat lifts offer faster operation—allowing you to get on the water quicker than ever before!
However, there are some drawbacks associated with electric boat lifts as well. For starters, they tend to cost more upfront than manual models because of their complex design and installation requirements. Additionally, electricity must be supplied continuously for proper functioning, which adds additional costs if not already available at the dock site. Furthermore, unless properly maintained by a qualified technician, an electric lift’s motor may become damaged from saltwater corrosion or improper usage resulting in costly repairs or replacement parts.
Overall, while electric boat lifts come with certain benefits like convenience and speed that make them attractive options for boaters looking to maximize their time on the water, it’s important to weigh all factors carefully when deciding whether an electric model is right for your needs – including budgeting for both initial investment as well as long-term maintenance costs.
Are Electric Boat Lifts Difficult To Operate?
Operating an electric boat lift can seem intimidating, but in reality it is not that difficult. These lifts are designed to make boating easier and more efficient for users. With the proper instruction on how they work, anyone can quickly learn how to operate one.
The first step in learning how to use an electric boat lift is familiarizing yourself with all of its components. It is important to understand what each part does so you can properly operate the machine. You should also be aware of any safety features or instructions that come with your particular model of lift. Once this has been done, you will be ready to start using the device.
Using an electric boat lift is fairly straightforward once all the parts have been identified. All that needs to be done is plugging in the power cord and pressing a button or two depending on which type of lift you own – manual or motorized. If you have a motorized version, then there may be additional steps such as setting up sensors or programming specific settings into the control panel before operating it correctly.
All in all, knowing how to operate an electric boat lift doesn’t need to be complicated. Taking time to read through user manuals and ask questions where necessary will ensure that you get the most out of your investment and experience years of enjoyable boating trips without any issues arising from improper operation of the device.
Conclusion
In conclusion, electric boat lifts are a great way to keep your vessel safe and sound. They are relatively easy to install, with the average installation taking around 2-3 hours. Electric boat lifts can accommodate most boats, so no matter what size or type of boat you own, there is likely an electric lift that will suit it. The average life span of an electric lift is between 5-10 years depending on use and maintenance. Although initially more expensive than manual boat lifts, they provide convenience and ease of access that many boaters find invaluable. Finally, operating these types of lifts isn’t difficult at all; just press a button and the motor does the rest! All in all, if you’re looking for a reliable method of storing your vessel when not in use then consider investing in an electric lift – I am sure you won’t regret it!