Guide to Buying a Stairlift
Which is the stairlift best for your stairway?
Depending on the type of stairway you have in your home will determine the type of stairlift you require, curved or straight. The most simple stairlift to use and the most economical to buy is the straight stairlift. Straight stairlifts fit all staircases regardless of the steepness of the stairway or the number of steps. They are easily installed and maintained. Curved stairlifts are comprised of multiple sections and sometimes must be tailored to accommodate unusual angles. Due to this complexity Curved Stairlifts are more expensive than Straight Stairlifts.
Suitable power supply
Most stairlifts will work from a standard 3-Pin Socket power supply with no specialist wiring required. However, if there is not a power source available close to the stairs you made need to arrange for one to be implemented by an electrician. Our stairlift surveyor will be able to advise you in this regard during your stairlift survey.
Weight capacity
Every stairlift will have a recommended maximum weight capacity as determined by the manufacturer. Most stairlifts will accommodate at least 120Kg which equates to almost 19 Stone. There are models of stairlift that can accommodate greater weight capacities up to 200Kg/31 Stone.
Simple controls
Stairlifts are easy and safe to use. There are simple controls on the chair itself as well as the option of having controls that are permanently fixed at the top and bottom of your staircase. Your implementation engineer will provide you with a full demonstration on how to use the stairlift.
Quality Aftercare
An important consideration when choosing a stairlift choice is length of warranty. Key questions to ask are:
- What parts of the stairlift are covered?
- How long does the service department take to respond to service request?
With Beechfield Healthcare you can rest assured that you are covered by a comprehensive parts warranty and a dedicated and compassionate service team.
Better Safety
Safety is an obvious concern when choosing a stairlift. It is important to ensure that the stairlift you choose has adequate safety features such as a seat belt, obstacle sensors, easy-to-use pressurised controls. It is essential that you thoroughly understand the various safety features included on the stairlift you choose.
Smoother ride
There are two types of stairlift driving systems. The ‘Rack and Pinion System’ and the ‘Cable System’. While cable drive systems can be slightly cheaper they generally provide a bumpier ride. The Rack and Pinion System provides a smooth ride and has a geared drive system that runs along a rack of teeth on the rail.
If you have any questions about selecting the most suitable stairlift for you and you home, please get in touch and one of our team will be glad to assist.
