Introduced in 2007, the Werner Equalizer series marked a milestone as the first ladders from Werner to feature factory-installed levelers. These aluminum or fiberglass extension ladders come equipped with the EverLevel system, allowing adjustments in 3/8-inch increments up to 8-1/4 inches to ensure a level base.
Available in various sizes from 16 to 28 feet and duty ratings from Type II (225 pounds) to Type IA (300 pounds), they boast slip-resistant D-rungs and dual-action spiked feet for versatile traction.
I’ve owned three Equalizers for about six years now. Sizes: 16-foot, 20-foot, and 24-foot models. All are Type I rated with a 250-pound load capacity.
In six years of heavy use, including stacking on my truck rack, only one ladder has severed a leash pin, with another is close to failing. You can avoid this by inserting the pins from the rear and replacement pins are available in Amazon.
The built-in levelers take some getting used to. They’re a bit finicky. But they handle uneven ground well. The bottom rung has a built in level, which helps. Werner also offers add-on auto-levelers you can install yourself. They’re a solid upgrade for easier adjustments.
Scaffolding with Werner Equalizer Ladders
I use these Type I ladders (250 lb capacity) with Werner’s Short Body Ladder Jacks and their 8 ft. – 13 ft. Telescoping Aluminum Extension Plank with 250 lb. load capacity.
Werner recommends Type IA ladders (300 lb capacity) or higher for these ladder jacks, but for one person, me, I’m comfortable using them one my Type I ladders because I’m a rebel.
For heavier loads, consider Type IAA (375 pounds) models. OSHA rules: Platforms can’t exceed 20 feet high. Use fall protection above 10 feet.
Key Features of Werner Equalizer Ladders
- Materials: Aluminum (lightweight) or fiberglass (non-conductive).
- Duty Ratings: Type II (225 pounds), Type I (250 pounds), Type IA (300 pounds).
- Sizes: Common options include 16′, 20′, 24′, 28′.
- Leveling System: EverLevel adjusts in 3/8-inch increments. Up to 8-1/4 inches total range.
- Feet: Dual-action for traction on various surfaces.
- Rungs: Slip-resistant D-rungs.
Dealing with Black Residue on Aluminum Ladders
Aluminum ladders can develop black residue over time. It’s from oxidation—a natural process where aluminum reacts with air.
As a former painting contractor, I’ve owned many Werner aluminum ladders, and for whatever reason, these developed more black soot than any other Werner ladder I’ve owned.
No worries, they clean up with a stiff brush and dish soap.
Where Can I Buy Werner Equalizer Ladders
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Werner Equalizer Extension Ladders
UPDATE: Factory-Installed Self-Adjusting Levelers
Werner has now released extension ladders with factory-installed automatic levelers. The LevelSafe Pro (PK100) comes pre-installed on select models. Nice!
These self-adjust up to 8.5 inches on uneven surfaces. No need for DIY installation. Available on both aluminum and fiberglass ladders. This addresses the earlier gap where auto-levelers were only add-ons.
