Get more out of your hoist batteries
Hoist batteries play a vital role in keeping patient lifting equipment reliable and ready for use. When you look after them properly, you reduce downtime and avoid unnecessary battery replacement costs.
In a busy care environment—often with several hoists that use the same type of battery—it can be difficult to keep batteries consistently charged. A simple, organised system will help ensure a fully charged battery is always available.
This guide explains how your care home can extend battery life and keep hoists in service for longer.
Steps to get more life out of your hoist batteries
Step 1 – Assign equipment
Give each hoist its own charger and two battery packs.
Step 2 – Label everything
Number the hoist, its charger, and both battery packs with the same number or letter.
Step 3 – Repeat for all hoists
Use this system for every hoist you operate.
Whenever possible, place all chargers in a convenient location close to where each hoist is used. This makes it easier for staff to match the correct batteries to the correct hoist.
Manufacturer Guidelines for Hoist Batteries
Manufacturers emphasise that the lifespan of consumables—especially batteries—depends on how well the equipment is used and maintained. Following the instructions for use and the Preventative Maintenance Schedule is essential for preserving battery health.
Hoist batteries slowly lose power even when they are not used. Charge them regularly to prevent deep discharge, which can shorten their lifespan. Most hoists now provide a visual or audible battery level indicator, so use it to judge when a charge is needed. Some battery types should not be drained too low, as they may struggle to recover full capacity.
Checking that your battery is fully charged should be part of your daily hoist safety check, which we cover in Hoist safety checks before use.
Other Tips to Extend Hoist Battery Life
Battery performance depends on several things, including usage, charging habits, temperature, storage, and the weight of the person being lifted.
Here are seven tips to help your batteries last longer:
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Use only the correct battery type designed for the equipment.
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Charge batteries until they reach full charge. You will not damage them by doing so.
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Avoid fully draining the battery before charging it again.
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Recharge the battery promptly when the low-battery indicator sounds.
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Use two battery packs per hoist whenever possible. This reduces strain on each battery and ensures at least one charged battery is always available.
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If you only have one battery, place it in the charger whenever the hoist is not in use.
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Charge batteries weekly, even when hoists are not used for long periods.
A clear labelling system helps staff manage batteries correctly and prevents unnecessary downtime. It also reduces the chance of replacing batteries earlier than needed.
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