Points to consider when buying a stairlift
Points to consider when buying a stairlift
Staircase Type
Straight vs. Curved Staircases: Determine whether your staircase is straight or curved.
Straight staircases are simpler to install a stairlift on, and typically come at a lower cost.
Curved staircases will require a customized rail system, which is more expensive but necessary to navigate turns and landings.
Weight Capacity
Make sure the stairlift you choose can safely accommodate the weight of the user. Stairlifts typically have weight limits between 120 kg (19st) and 190 kg (30st)
Rail Design
Straight Rail: For straight staircases, a standard rail is usually enough.
Sliding Rails: a moving rail, shorter than the length of the stairs, which travels in the same direction as the stairlift ideal where doorways at the top or bottom are obstructed when the stairlift stops.
Folding Rails: Some models offer folding rails that can help create additional space at the bottom of the stairs, especially useful for narrow hallways.
Curved Rail: For complex staircases, ensure the stairlift comes with a custom curved rail that fits your specific staircase layout.
Vertical Start Rails: If space is limited at the bottom of the stairs, vertical start rails can eliminate the need for a hinged rail and save space.
Seat Material Comfort and Size
It is essential that the seat not only provides comfort but also holds you securely in place during use. Many stairlifts now feature high-quality materials designed for durability and ease of maintenance. Additionally, many seats are equipped with Scotchgard or other hygienic coatings that make cleaning easier and help protect against stains, bacteria, and odours, ensuring a more hygienic and long-lasting user experience.
Ensure the seat is comfortable for the user. Some stairlifts offer adjustable seat heights, and others come with different seat widths to accommodate various body types.
Look for padded, ergonomically designed seats for enhanced comfort, especially for longer use.
Ease of Use
All modern stairlifts have been designed to be comfortable and easy to use, like a joystick or simple toggle switches, making control possible even for those with limited dexterity or strength.
All new stairlifts are supplied with a set of wireless remote controls for operating the lift from a distance, one for each floor.
Installation and Maintenance
Stairlifts require professional installation all engineers should be accredited by each manufacturer to ensure the equipment is fitted correctly and fixings etc are set to correct torque values.
Manufacturers recommend equipment be service on an annual basis. Some insurers require that stairlifts may need shorter periodic maintenance.
Warranty
Our new stairlifts come with a minimum of a 2-year warranty covering both parts and labour, some models include 5-year or lifetime warranties.
Our reconditioned units are supplied with a 12-month parts and labour warranty.
We do not offer insurance or extended warranty policies; we have confidence in the quality and reliability of the equipment we supply. In the rare event of a repair, we believe the cost of any worst-case scenario would likely be less than the cost of platinum or gold-level extended warranties.
The only exceptions to these warranties are issues outside of our control, such as misuse or accidental damage, which may be covered by your home insurance.