Pool Hoist or Pool Lift? A Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Access Solution

Pool Hoist or Pool Lift? A Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Access Solution

Pool hoist or pool lift? Discover the difference, compare portable and fixed options, and find the best pool access solution for your home or commercial pool.

Pool hoists and pool lifts are essentially two names for the same type of accessibility equipment: a device that helps someone safely enter and exit a swimming pool. Different manufacturers use different terminology, but the wording isn’t really what matters when searching for a pool hoist or pool lift for your home.

So, if you’ve been searching for a pool hoist and wondering whether you should actually be looking for a pool lift, the good news is that you’re usually looking at the same type of equipment. Read on to find out more.

What is a pool hoist and who can benefit from using one?

A pool hoist is a piece of equipment that supports people to safely enter and exit a pool. This gives more independence to those who may struggle to do this without assistance, and reduces the physical strain sometimes required by family members or carers.

There are lots of people who can benefit from using a pool hoist, including those with reduced mobility, certain disabilities, or age-related mobility difficulties. They can also be useful for people living with temporary mobility restrictions or with rehabilitation or recovery needs.

What is the difference between a pool hoist and a pool lift?

In most cases, pool hoist and pool lift refer to the same type of pool access equipment. In fact, you might see any of the following names when searching for this piece of equipment:

  • Pool lift
  • Pool hoist
  • Swimming pool lift
  • Swimming pool hoist
  • Disability pool lift
  • Pool access lift
  • Should you choose a portable or fixed pool lift?

    A portable pool lift offers flexibility and storage convenience, while a fixed pool lift provides a permanent, ready-to-use accessibility solution. The best option depends on your pool design, available space and frequency of use. Both portable and fixed pool lifts come with a variety of benefits.

    Portable pool lifts:

  • Can be moved when required
  • Useful where flexibility is important
  • Can be stored when not in use
  • Potentially useful where space is limited
  • Particularly suitable for some in-ground pool configurations
  • Fixed pool lifts:

  • Permanently positioned at the pool
  • Suitable for certain raised and walled pool designs
  • Useful where the equipment will be used frequently
  • Can provide a straightforward solution that’s always accessible
  • Does it matter whether you need a pool lift for a home or commercial pool?

    Pool lifts for home use

    Pool lifts for home use provide convenience and privacy while offering independence to those who require support when entering and exiting their pool. When choosing a pool lift for your home, consider how often you’ll use it, the space you have available, where you’ll store it when not in use, and whether you’ll still need support from a family member or carer. By thinking about these points, you’ll be able to choose the perfect option for your needs so you can enjoy your own pool as and when you want to.

    Pool lifts for commercial pools

    In addition to home use, pool lifts are ideal for leisure centres, hotels, spas, sports facilities, rehabilitation facilities, and public swimming pools. They ensure that guests can use your pool with confidence and that the facility is accessible to them. When purchasing a pool lift for your commercial property, consider durability, user capacity, staff training, and any other accessibility requirements.

    What should you consider before buying a pool lift or pool hoist?

    User weight and lifting capacity

    Different pool hoist models have different maximum capacities, so user weight should be one of the first specifications checked. The model you choose should have sufficient capacity while also being the right fit for the pool type and how it’ll be used.

    Pool edge and wall height

    Your pool lift will need to be able to safely clear the pool wall and any raised edges, coping, gutters, channels, and other surrounding obstacles. This is a particularly important consideration if you have a raised pool or spa.

    Available space around the pool

    You should also consider the space you have available around the pool, such as the poolside width, changing area, access routes, storage, and turning space.

    Ceiling height for indoor pools

    If you have an indoor pool, you’ll need to account for the overall height of the lift when it’s fully raised, not simply its dimensions when it’s not in use.

    How much does a pool lift cost in the UK?

    The cost of a pool hoist depends on a range of factors, including:

  • Portable vs fixed
  • Lifting capacity
  • Level of automation
  • Pool configuration
  • Installation requirements
  • Customisation
  • Accessories
  • Ongoing servicing
  • What is included when you buy a pool lift?

    Your pool lift purchase may include delivery, installation, a demonstration, a battery or charger where applicable, a seat or sling, a warranty, after sales support, and servicing. Be sure to check what your chosen pool lift comes with when buying yours.

    At the Pool Lift Company, we offer free UK delivery, installation, and demonstrations on lifts with a one-year guarantee.

    How do you choose the right pool lift for your needs?

  • If you have an in-ground pool, a portable or fixed solution may be possible, depending on the pool and surrounding area
  • If you have a raised or walled pool a fixed solution may be best, depending on the wall height and required clearance
  • If you need to move the equipment, consider a portable pool lift, provided the pool configuration is suitable
  • If the lift will be used frequently a fixed solution can be more convenient as the equipment is always ready for use
  • If you’re unsure, we offer access surveys where we assess positioning and installation before recommending the most suitable option
  • Frequently Asked Questions

    Is a pool hoist the same as a pool lift?

    Yes. Pool hoist and pool lift are commonly used interchangeably to describe equipment that assists people entering and leaving a swimming pool safely.

    Can a pool lift be used at home?

    Yes. Many pool lifts are designed specifically for domestic swimming pools and can be either portable or fixed.

    What is the difference between a portable and fixed pool lift?

    A portable pool lift can be moved and stored when not in use, while a fixed pool lift is permanently installed beside the pool.

    Are pool lifts suitable for disabled users?

    Pool lifts are commonly used by disabled swimmers, wheelchair users, people recovering from injury and those with reduced mobility.

    How much weight can a pool lift lift?

    Weight capacities vary by model. Always check manufacturer specifications before purchasing.

    Need help choosing the right pool lift?

    The most important factor when selecting a pool lift is not the terminology but ensuring the lift is suitable for the pool structure, wall height and user requirements. Every pool and every user is different, so there’s no need to make the decision alone. Speak to The Pool Lift Company’s friendly team for advice on the right pool lift for your pool, your space, and your needs.

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