Water is indispensable and when it comes to swimming, you just can’t do without water. The soothing nature of water and its health benefits remain the important reasons why many people love swimming. Sadly, not everyone is able to go into the swimming pool or enjoy swimming by themselves. Elderly ones, handicaps, and some other persons with one sickness or the other may be left out of the fun.
Thanks, to researchers, pool lifts are now available to accommodate everyone in the pool, even in public or commercial ones. In addition, the implementation of ADA pool requirements has helped to make things easy. What is left for you is to purchase the best out of the best pool lifts. In a nutshell, asides pool filters, pool lifts are another mandatory device to purchase for your pool.
This article will help find the one for you as I will be reviewing the top eight best pool lifts. I have also made a buying guide and some other useful information available.
Table of Contents
ADA Pool Lift Requirements
Since disabled, sick and elderly ones cannot access swimming pools, they feel left out of society. They cannot join other people for water recreation or cool off in swimming pools. However, the government made an attempt to remove this barrier by implementing the ADA and it has been successful. You must be wondering what the ADA is.
The ADA is the acronym of the Americans with Disabilities Acts. Of course, it is dangerous to have disabled, sick and elderly ones in the swimming pool. The ADA sets the standard for pool and spa designs to ensure that everyone has equal opportunity and can access the pool at any time. The ADA sets design requirements for large and small pools.
For any large pool, there must be two points of entry and one of them be a sloped entry or a pool lift. Small pools, on the other hand, must have one point of entry which must be a sloped entry or a pool lift. Any pool with its wall above 300 linear feet is regarded as a large pool and anything less is a small pool.
Quick Answer: The Best Swimming Pool Lifts
With pool lifts, no one is exempted from using swimming pools. As long as the pool meets the ADA requirements, you are good to go. However, if you really want the best leisure time in the pool then you need to invest in the best pool lifts. Among the pool lifts available, here are some of the top ones you should consider.
- Best Overall: S.R.Smith ML300 Swimming Pool Lift
"Easy to operate, battery-powered, comes with four caster wheels for mobility." - Best Budget: Aqua Creek Ranger Pool Lift
"Available in four colors, collapsible armrests, comes with a five-year warranty." - Best Manual Pool Lift: Hoyer Classic Pool Lift
"Budget-friendly, doesn’t require electricity, very easy to set up." - Best With Integrated Armrests: Aqua Creek Patriot Pool Lift
"Comfy, two-year warranty, allows easy transfer between seat and wheelchair." - Best Portable: S.R.Smith 202 PAL2 Swimming Pool Lift
"Comes with wheels, equipped with armrests and footrest, covers are available." - Best for Above-Ground Pools: Aqua Creek Revolution Pool Lift
"Large lifting capacity, offers much customization, can be controlled independently of a caregiver." - Best for Wheelchairs: Aqua Creek EZ Pool Lift
"Budget-friendly, durable stainless steel construction, offers 360-degree rotation system." - Best Hydraulic: Spectrum 27336 Gallatin Water Powered Pool Lift
"Doesn’t require power, lightweight, resistant to corrosion, comes with wheels."
Comparison of Top 8 Best Pool Lifts 2020
Pool lifts come in different sizes, design and other features giving you a wide range of options to pick from. These attributes often determine which pool lift will be best for you. This quick comparison table below is made available for you to check the basic features of the eight pool lifts I've selected.
Reviews of the Best Pool Lifts
Pools lifts differ from each other in terms of features, quality, comfort, and other criteria. Hence, merely looking at the basic features is not enough in decision-making. You might have a good and quality pool lift, however, it may not be the best for you. In fact, it may not suit the conditions of your pools.
Therefore, I have provided detailed reviews to the eight selected best pool lifts to help increase the chance of getting it right.
S.R.Smith ML300 Swimming Pool Lift
(Best Overall - Editor's Choice)
Looking for a handicap pool lift that offers both comfort and safety? You should consider the S.R. Smith ML300 pool lift as it is compatible with most spas and pools. Even though the pool lift is meant to be immobile, it is easy to install, relying on this robust base and a 4-bolt anchor. A lifting capacity of 300 pounds ensures that it carries most people except obese individuals.
The ML300 is controlled by a lift operator which is powered by a rechargeable 24V battery and its handheld remote is completely waterproof. It offers a number of comfort and safety features which include armrests, a removable footrest, and a safety belt.
The pool lift has a durable stainless steel build that can withstand elements, however, protective covers are available for the product. To increase customer confidence, the product comes with a five-year structural warranty.
Pros
- It comes with a 5-year warranty.
- It comes with armrests and a removable footrest.
- It is easy to operate.
- It features a safety belt.
- It meets the ADA requirements.
- Covers are available for the pool lift.
Cons
- Relies on battery and may fail anytime.
- Not for obese.
Aqua Creek Ranger Pool Lift
(Best Budget)
The Aqua Creek Ranger is a budget-friendly pool lift that allows the user to operate it independently. With the presence of the corded, waterproof remote, the user doesn’t need much of the attention of a caregiver. The compliant to ADA with a sturdy base that can be fixed on the sides of the pool with four bolts. Interestingly, the battery, which is rechargeable, can be charged easily with the wall-mount charger.
The lifting capacity is about 350 pounds and should be a good one for small commercial pools and backyard ones. The comfort level is pretty high thanks to the collapsible armrests, a footrest, and adjustable belt. If you are concerned about aesthetics, you will glad to know that the product is available in four colors. It has a five-year warranty to add.
Pros
- It is available in four color options.
- It has a collapsible armrest and an adjustable seat belt.
- It has a large lifting range and a lifting weight of 350 pounds.
- It has a five-year warranty.
- It complies with the ADA requirements.
Cons
- It requires anchoring.
Hoyer Classic Pool Lift
(Best Manual Pool Lift)
Probably to its simple design, the Hoyer Classic is one of the lowest-priced pool lift on this list. It is lightweight and very easy to install. All you need to do for the installation is drill holes for anchorage. One lovely feature about the pool lift is its high lifting range of 62 inches. In terms of lifting capacity, the pool lift can accommodate 400 pounds.
The product comes with a swivel that supports 360-degree rotation, allowing easy transfer from deck to pool. The build material is reliable as it comes with a corrosion-resistant finish. However, the product is not ADA-compliant. Although all functions are manual, it should be able to get the job done.
Pros
- It has a long lifting range of 62 inches.
- It allows a rotation of 360 degrees.
- It is easy to install.
- It has a large lifting capacity of 400 pounds.
- It is lightweight and less expensive.
Cons
- It is not ADA compliant.
- Not automated.
Aqua Creek Patriot Pool Lift
(Best With Integrated Armrests)
The Aqua Creek patriot is a great solution to getting everyone involved. It is designed for in-ground pools and, with its design, it offers one of the quickest ways to move between wheelchairs to its seat.
The handicap pool lift is ADA-approved and provides a lifting capacity of 375 pounds. It features a stainless steel build that is coated with a reliable powder finish.
It comes with everything needed to make it comfortable for the user. The pool lift chair is comfy and it includes an adjustable footrest, seatbelt, and flip-up armrests. It uses some form of automation that is powered by its rechargeable battery. In addition, it comes with a 2-year warranty which is small but fair.
Pros
- It has a lifting capacity of 375 pounds.
- It offers much comfort.
- It has a 2-year warranty.
- ADA-approved.
- Lateral design for easy transfer between seat and wheelchair.
Cons
- Requires sand for the counterweight.
S.R.Smith 202 PAL2 Swimming Pool Lift
(Best Portable)
This product is one of the most compatible with spas and swimming pools. Except for its 1200-pound weight, the 202 PAL2 is one of the most flexible and mobile pool lifts available, thanks to its high-quality four caster wheels.
The pool is ADA compliant and it has a lifting capacity is about 300 pounds and a rotation of 240 degrees. The lift is operator-controlled via a waterproof handheld remote and has a 24V rechargeable battery to power it.
For durability, the pool lift has an aluminum and stainless steel construction which carries a powder-coat finish to make it extra-resistant to corrosion. The pool lift impressive comfort features a rotomolded seat, armrests integrated into the seat, and removable footrests.
For extra safety to the user, it has a reliable seatbelt. To cap it all, it has a five-year structural warranty and a full-compliant charging system.
Pros
- ADA compliant and easy to install.
- It is mobile as it comes with four caster wheels.
- Five-year structural warranty.
- It has durable stainless steel with a powder-coated finish.
- It comes with a safety belt, armrests, and removable rugged footrest.
- Pool lift covers are available.
Cons
- It is quite heavy at 1200 pounds.
Aqua Creek Revolution Pool Lift
(Best for Above-Ground Pools)
The Aqua Creek Revolution is a fantastic choice for most pools and spas including the above and below ground pools. The pool lift complies strictly with ADA requirements, as well as, safety requirements. The most important highlight is its high lifting capacity of about 500 pounds and should accommodate “big persons”. It has a rechargeable battery that can be charged by a wall-mount charger.
With the quality stainless steel and white powered coating, the construction is reliable and should be able to resist corrosion and rust. The pool lift has an option of the gurney, cycle attachment, wheelchair attachment, spine board, and sling seat. It comes with armrests, a lap belt, and a footrest, and the controls can be done independently of a caregiver. The product comes with a five-year limited warranty.
Pros
- It comes with a five-year limited warranty
- It has an option of the gurney, cycle attachment, wheelchair attachment, spine board, and sling seat.
- It comes with a five-year warranty.
- It has a large lifting capacity of 500 pounds.
- It can be operated independently by the user.
Cons
- Immobile.
See Also: 15 Best Above Ground Pools
Aqua Creek EZ Pool Lift
(Best for Wheelchairs)
One of the most popular pool lifts you will come across is the Aqua Creek EZ. The pool lift is a high-caliber solution and has a lifting capacity of about 400 pounds. It is an excellent choice that provides the needed convenience to the caregiver, and safety and comfort to the user.
For reliability, the pool lift is made from high-grade stainless steel and coated with white epoxy, contributing to its useful life and making it resistant to corrosion.
Thanks to its remote controls (battery-powered), it can be calibrated and positioned to the comfort of the user. The chain is adjustable and only the rotation is manual, requiring the caregiver’s attention. The pool lift can rotate up to 360 degrees but might be stressful anyway.
It is easy to install with a weight of 90 pounds and a portable dimension of 59 x 6 x 9 inches. With the concrete anchor, the pool lift is able to stand firmly.
Pros
- It has a lifting capacity of 400 pounds.
- It is budget-friendly.
- The chains are durable and adjustable.
- It comes with a stainless steel build that is coated with reliable white epoxy.
- It has a concrete-imbedded anchor system with a 360-degree manual rotation system.
Cons
- It is battery-powered and its battery may become less reliable over time.
- The manual rotation may be difficult.
Spectrum 27336 Gallatin Water Powered Pool Lift
(Best Hydraulic)
If you are looking for something unique among other pool lifts, then you should look at the Spectrum 27336 Gallatin Water-powered pool lift. Yes, it’s water-powered requiring no electricity, batteries or wires. The pool lift relies on water pressure via its hydraulic lifts which are driven by a big piston and cylinder. Hence, its entire function is quiet and reliable.
Although it has a 5-year warranty, it is made from high-quality 304L stainless steel, making durability and corrosion-resistance major attributes of this pool. The 27336 Gallatin offers a lot of comforts as it comes with a padded seat, headrest and footrest, seatbelt and non-slip armrests.
The entire device is lightweight weighing just 95 pounds and, with its wheels, it is extremely moveable. The base positioned on any gutter configuration.
Pros
- It comes with armrests, padded headrest, and a footrest.
- It requires no electricity, battery or wires.
- It comes with corrosion protection.
- It can accommodate up to 400 pounds.
- The base stand comes with wheels and can support many gutter configurations.
Cons
- Accessories are sold separately.
How to Choose the Best Pool Lift?
With the pool lift, anyone can get into the pool with less stress. Depending on the product selected, these devices offer some kind of relief to the user and caregiver. However, it won't be quite frustrating if you get the pool lift that doesn't suit your real needs. You know how stressful it can be to transport those bulky devices.
Well, before you go ahead to buy a pool lift, there are some things you need to look out for. They determine what kind of product you should settle for. Apart from your budget, some things are also important to check. Below are some of the things to consider.
Type and Construction of the Pool
Of course, your pool should have a deck, shell, bond beams, gutter, coping and a bonding grid. The coping width of your pool will determine which pool lift is best. The most common width starts from 12 to 14 inches. Ideally, the front anchors (lift base) should be about five inches from the expansion joint and coping.
If you will be using a pool lift like the Hoyer Classic pool lift, the anchor point should be reliable. It should be able to withstand the weight of the pool and the user. Also, there are pool lifts that work best for in-ground pools and above-ground pools. Some pools work fine in both pool types but the important aspect is ensuring it works fine with your pool.
Type of Pool Lift
There are two common pool lift types you’ll come across – the portable and the fixed pool lifts. The portable pool lifts can be moved from one place to another. Although they are mostly heavy, they come with caster wheels that improve their portability. Often times, they are battery-powered. The fixed pool lifts, on the other hand, are designed to be permanent. They come with anchors and bolts.
Lifting Capacity
By now, you should know that pool lifts come with different lifting capacities. Hence, whatever pool lift you will be going for must be able to withstand the user’s weight. Also, you want something mobile, then you should pick a product you can move around.
Power Source
The manual, water hydraulics and electricity are the three major power sources available. The manual pool lifts are identified by the presence of a hand crank. They are often lightweight but they always require the attention of caregivers.
The water hydraulics functions depending on water pressure. They come with cylinders and pistons and they may or may not require the attention of caregivers. On the other hand, the electricity-powered ones offer full automation and control. The attention of caregivers is less needed.
Comfort
Any pool lift you want to settle for should be very comfortable since increased comfort translates to quality swimming sessions. You should look for a pool lift chair with adequate cushioning. Some pool lifts even come with padded headrest and footrest.
Extra Features
There are some features you might want to look out for. You may want to invest in products with a warranty. If you care about aesthetics, there are products that offer some color options. However, these should be the last criteria whenever you want to buy a pool lift.
How Do Pool Lifts Work?
Ever wondered how it would have been possible to get into the pool? Of course, you can't carry a 200-pound person in the pool but the pool lift is there to do the job for you. Regardless of the design, pool lifts have the same working principle of a crane. It allows you to lift the user in and out of the pool.
Furthermore, they may even rotate from the deck into the pool and vice versa. Most pool lifts are powered by electricity or battery, however, there are some that are manual or water-powered. The water-powered use hydraulics to get the seat in and out of the pool. However, their depth is limited to whatever the manufacturer has designed.
The manual ones use cranks which can be controlled by hand. For the electric ones, they come with control buttons that may either be embedded on the seat or in a remote module.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Did you miss any info? Perhaps you have some questions in mind, here are some frequently asked questions about pool lifts.
Swim Network Overview
Pool lifts are the safest way to help elderly ones, handicaps, and sick persons enjoy the soothing nature of water. The impact of the ADA cannot be neglected too. However, one can only enjoy swimming if the best pool lift is purchased. All things being equal, the best for you will be that pool lift that can withstand your weight and offer you the best comfort.
When it comes to finding the best pool lifts, you will often find many products in the market. Hence, I have made a comprehensive buying guide to help you find the best pool lifts for you. Using this buying guide, I have also researched the market and collated the best pool lifts you should be considering. The S.R.Smith ML300 Swimming Pool Lift is best overall while the Aqua Creek Ranger Pool Lift is nice for budget users.
Have you bought any of the listed pool lift? Kindly use the comments section below to drop any comment or remark. You can also help your friends and family to know more about pool lifts by sharing my article on Facebook, Twitter, and other social platforms. You can click the quick buttons below to do that.
