Patient Lifting FAQs

How long does it take to charge the battery Airflo Plus? We recommend keeping your battery on charge when not in use. The time to recharge after a lift will vary according to the type of lifting cushion used and the conditions of the last lift completed.

How many lifts do I get from one charge? Depending on the weight of the person, on average you will be able to complete one lift per charge with the Camel and three with the ELK.

What type of battery is in the Airflo Plus? The Airflo Plus is powered by two valve regulated sealed lead acid batteries.

Can I leave the battery on charge all the time? Yes, and we recommend you do. The Airflo Plus may remain continuously on charge when not in use as the batteries cannot be overcharged.

Can I have a spare battery? Yes. The battery is detachable from the Airflo Plus and can be charged separately with an accessory called a cradle.

Can the Airflo Plus be plugged into a mains supply? Yes, but the mains electrical supply is only used to charge the battery and will not power the lifting cushion independently from the battery.

Can the Airflo Plus be charged from a vehicle? Yes. We have an in-vehicle charging accessory which enables you to charge the Airflo Plus from your car or ambulance.

Are there different sizes of lifting cushions? We have an ELK and a Camel lifting cushion. The ELK will lift 450 KG or 980lbs and the Camel will lift 350 KG or 700lbs. For each cushion, one size fits all and no additional accessories are required. In some circumstances a slide sheet, transfer board or transfer belt may be required to assist a transfer.

How quickly does the lifting cushion inflate and deflate? The speed the lifting cushions inflate will depend on the weight of the person being lifted, but generally, it will take less than three minutes. The lifting cushions can deflate in less than a minute.

Can I over inflate my lifting cushion? No. The Airflo Plus will stop once full pressure is realised.

What sort of ground can lifting cushions be used on outside? The lifting cushions can be used on any type of surface but do look out for broken glass or sharp stones which could puncture the cushions. We advise putting a small tarpaulin or mat underneath the lifting cushion in these circumstances.

What happens if I get a puncture? The incidences of puncture are rare. If a puncture does occur, then only the section of cushion with the damage would be affected – the remaining three will still operate. The lifting cushion will not burst like a balloon and there is no risk of injury to the patient from a rapid descent. If the puncture is small, then the cushion would still work though there would be an audible leak. Punctures cannot be repaired due to the pressure and load and damaged units have to be replaced.

Is the Airflo Plus waterproof? When in a standing position, The Airflo Plus can be placed in a damp bathroom, used in the rain and sustain a splash of water but cannot be submerged in water. It has an IP51 rating.

What is the highest and lowest outside temperature I can use my lifting cushion in? The maximum temperature is 95F (35C) and lowest 41F (5C).

Can I lift someone supine (lying down) on the lifting cushion? Yes. This lift is performed in conjunction with a scoop or transfer board.

What material is it made from? The lifting is made from a polyurethane coated nylon fabric, which is a hydrophobic material and does not absorb fluids.

How do I clean my lifting cushion? The lifting cushions should be cleaned when inflated. Sponge clean with a detergent solution and dry thoroughly before storing in a dry place. The lifting cushions are ultrasonically welded so there is no stitching or gaps when germs can collect. To disinfect use a disinfecting solution or alcohol impregnated wipe.

Is the Airflo Plus CEN tested? Yes. Airflo Plus compressors are CEN tested. They also have TUV and UN accreditation

What lifespan does the lifting cushion have? We expect lifting cushions (excluding batteries) will last seven years in a professional setting and 10 years for domestic use.