Since 2006, Lift Shop has installed more than 10,000 lifts across Australia. We have seen every configuration, every constraint and every question. One persistent myth: electric is always superior. That is not necessarily true.
The right choice is not about trends. It is about fit. Fit for your space, your usage, and your future needs. That is why we provide both hydraulic and electric traction models—and guide every customer to what works best.
Lift Shop delivers complete vertical transport systems: design drawings, builder liaison, safety coordination and seamless delivery—backed by our non-negotiable 8-year warranty. From 1 July 2025, every new lift includes up to 80,000-trip cover on parts and labour, provided serviced at least twice annually by our own technicians. This warranty is not optional, it is standard in metro areas (applies to all our hydraulic and electric lifts).
Our process ensures transparency with no hidden costs—your quote is your final price, including all standard installations without surprises. We also offer flexible planning and FastTrack installs from as little as 20 weeks.
Want to make an informed comparison? Read below or contact us—we’ll help without bias, tied only to what your project needs.
Hydraulic lifts employ a piston and sealed fluid reservoir that moves the cabin with controlled force. This method offers robust support and reliability, even in complex retrofit conditions.
Electric gearless traction lifts operate via cables, counterweights and high-precision motors, producing an exceptionally smooth and silent ride.
Hydraulic lifts draw power only when the pump runs, but the pump is active each trip. Electric lifts consume energy only during motion.
Hydraulic models typically require deeper pits (150-270 mm) and cabinet space. MRL electric models work with shallow pits and no machine room—making them ideal for modern builds and aesthetic integration.
| Feature | Electric Traction | Hydraulic |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Mechanism | Geared or Gearless | Piston & sealed hydraulic fluid |
| Noise Level | Very quiet (<50 dB) | Moderate – pump whirr at each trip |
| Energy Usage | Low consumption; solar ready | Pump use each cycle; higher running cost |
| Self Rescue | Yes – battery backed – ICSR | Yes – ICSR standard in all models |
| Pit & Space Requirement | MRL; Pit (190-270 mm), no machine room | Pit (150-270 mm) & small cabinet |
| Servicing Frequency | Twice per year | Twice per year |
| Lifetime Value | High – low running & service costs | Good – strong with regular upkeep |
| Capacity | 4-7 persons (350-450kg) | 4-6 persons (300-400kg) |
| Speed | 0.29-0.60 m/s | 0.30 m/s |
| Max Levels | Up to 6 | Up to 7 |
Installing a home lift typically takes 4-6 months lead time. We handle everything from design to handover, including scaffold provision and builder coordination.
Key requirements: Pit depths from 150-270mm, headroom 2400-2950mm, single-phase power (25-32A). For future-proofing, consider building the shaft during home construction to reduce costs and avoid later engineering needs. Options include glass shafts or self-supporting steel structures.
Our FastTrack service can accelerate installs to 20 weeks. Visit our showrooms to see demos and plan your setup.
Regular maintenance ensures longevity and warranty validity—twice annually by our technicians. First three years are free, with tailored plans thereafter.
For hydraulics, annual fluid and seal checks prevent issues. Electrics have fewer moving parts for minimal upkeep. Our 24/7 rescue service and low breakdown rates keep things reliable.
Lift Shop is Australia’s only multinational home lift specialist. Established in 1996, we pioneered vertical movement solutions designed around style, safety and longevity—for over 28 years. Our lifts are exclusive to us, and our systems are backed by the largest home lift service team in the country.
We limit our workload to maintain quality. We design for longevity—not future service revenue. We believe real safety and real support require standards, not shortcuts. And that is backed by consistent five-star reviews and industry recognition.