Many people who use lifts will have the question, “Can I install a car lift outdoors?”
People ask this for a number of reasons. They don’t have enough space in their house, usually because their ceilings are too low, or space is limited so they don’t want to dedicate space to it, or sometimes it could be because they prefer to work outdoors.
Technically, the correct answer is, “You can put it outside.” But you must be aware of the fact that the car lift is designed for indoor use and it should be installed in a temperature-controlled environment. Installing a car lift outdoors will void the warranty because it is certain that the natural elements will cause damage to the car lift.
You may think of the car lift is made of steel, which is rugged and durable. However, over time, the natural elements become more robust and deterioration is inevitable:
Temperature: The operating temperature should be between 41 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit with a humidity of 30-95%. Any angle below 41 degrees will affect the hydraulic fluid, it will not pump properly through the lines, and you will not be able to raise or lower the lift arm.
Sunlight: Sunlight can do a lot of damage; it can destroy plastic parts such as the reservoir and dry out the hydraulic lines. If your car lift is exposed to sunlight, it is important to replace these items regularly.
Water damage: Moisture can damage the lifter. The wires of the power unit should not get wet, and likewise the rubber parts on the lift should not constantly touch water or the lift pad will rot.
Metal will rust when it gets wet. Lifts are primarily metal. Once it rusts, it is impossible to get rid of it. Chains and cables on lifts are also exposed and can be damaged when they hit water.
Salty air: If you live near the coast, salty air can damage your lifts. Lifts installed outdoors in snowy areas can be affected by road salt, and if you’re doing vehicle maintenance work, salt can get into your vehicle and your lift and affect its use. So if you install your lift outdoors, you will have to double your maintenance work to make sure the lift is in safe and proper working condition.
But you don’t need to worry! Whatever your reason for choosing to use your lift outdoors, there are many solutions. We have two options for you to choose from.
1. Choose these two lifts that can be used outdoors but stored indoors.
This is a portable scissor lift. It offers a 6,000 lb. capacity, dual hydraulic cylinders, automatic multi-position safety locks and a 1-year warranty.
We also have a single post car lift with a 6000 lb. capacity that is a big seller. The mobile lift uses a “pallet jack” type hydraulic system to lift the lift onto the wheels and roll it under the vehicle. It uses an average 110V voltage, so it can be plugged in anywhere.
2. Solutions for using non-portable lifts
If you have a non-portable lift and it must live outdoors, you must put a cover over it and keep the power unit dry. All moving parts should be lubricated regularly. It is important to take care of your equipment as you will be standing underneath it and therefore need to observe safety precautions.