We can't remember whch positions are which on the switch in the box with the lift buttons the switch operates the 12 volt lights when in a certain position but what does the other position of the switch do?

On most, not all, the up position is to turn 12 volts on to the lights, furnace, LP gas detector, range fan, etc. The middle position is all off and the down position is to provide power for the lift system only. Someone recently said that theirs was the reverse of this. You will readily find out which way yours is. This can vary depending on what year and model your Hilo is, but most late models are this way.

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