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- We'll get you to the next level!
A stairlift, sometimes referred to as a chairlift, is defined as a seat that rides on a track (or rail) to transport individuals safely up and down stairways. There are two types of stairlifts: straight and curved. Straight stairlifts run straight up from one floor to another. Stairways with either landings or curves will require a curved lift that has to be made to conform with the stairs and therefore are priced considerably higher.
Safety-wise, all indoor stairlifts sold new in the US must comply with Title 21, Sec. 890.5150 of the US Federal Regulations Code for stairlifts. This includes that the lift has a three-prone electrical grounding plug, passenger seat belts, a maximum operational speed (22 ft./minute), overspeed governor (for stopping the lift in the event of a drive failure), chair locking at the top of the stairs and sensory detecting systems for stopping the lift should it strike an obstruction in its path while in operation.
In an Oct 24, 2023 Retirement Living article, they list the top selling stairlifts sold in the US. Only 3 are made in the US. Alphabetically, they include AmeriGlide’s Rave2, Bruno, Harmar, LifewayMobility. The other three, Acorn, Handicare and Stannah are for the most part sourced off shore.
All stairlifts need a grounded household source (120V) of electricity to operate. While most stairlifts sold in homes today are battery powered, they need this source for recharging the battery. Battery life can last anywhere from 3-6 yrs. depending on the loads carried and their usage. To extend battery life, the lift should be operated almost daily. And in places where stairlift usage may be occasional (e.g., summer cottages, public buildings), a totally electric powered lift like our Rubex is generally recommended over a battery powered model.
Almost all stairlifts sold today are mounted on the steps, rather than a wall. When not in operation, most can be folded up against the “track wall” to allow able-bodied people passage on the stairs. (This includes the seat, armrests and footrest). Our Ameriglide Rave2 (and Harmar stairlifts) when folded, provide the narrowest stairway footprint in the industry – 11 inches.
By observing the stairlift’s load capacity limits and keeping the track clean (think dust, cat or dog hair), your stairlift should last a long time. Polymer drive systems like those used in Harmar and our Amerglide Rave2 stairlifts are relatively smooth and quiet (AND REQUIRE NO MAINTENANCE). Metal rack and pinion drives on the other hand, ride bumpier, noisier and require periodic cleaning and lubrication.
As for battery replacement, most batteries should last 3-6 yrs. Extended battery life can be achieved by observing the lift’s riding capacity limits and using the lift several times a week.
Except for Acorn and their private labeled stairlift Brooks, most manufacturer stairlift warranties cover specific parts ONLY (no labor). The range of coverage can be anywhere from 3 to 10 yrs. (Also, we offer a one-year complimentary warranty on labor for any part replacement covered under the warranty.
Acorn on the other hand, offers a 1 yr. service agreement on both parts & labor. However, at the end of the first year, they will encourage you to purchase an $800, extended “parts only – service “priority” contract. This is one of the reasons that an Acorn or Brooks may come in at a lower price.
Some stairlift companies offer optional features to attract potential buyers. These could include retractable seatbelts, key locks, remote transmitters, powered swivel seats or footrests, folding bottom rails, as well as color upholstery options. Some of these features may be included as standard on specific models, while on other models be classified as an upgrade.
If you search for this question on the web, everyone claims to be the best stairlift. However, most all indoor straight stairlifts are similar functionally and differ mainly by their load capacity, drive systems, warranties and optional features (think loose seatbelts vs retractable belts). The truth of the matter is that customer satisfaction comes down to how they were handled by the seller, rather than the brand. For example, did the provider keep the customer appraised by returning calls both before and after the sale? Was the installer competent, respectful, helpful, etc.? Is the company quick to respond to after-sales questions and/or service? NE Ohio Stairlifts will not abandon you once you sign. We will be there long after you own it.
Note that companies with 800 numbers or websites requesting personal information that the company generally has one goal: to get an in-home visit. Rarely will they divulge their price beforehand. The sales rep, who may or may not be employed with the company, will “visit” your home to hard sell you. NE Ohio Stairlifts however will give you a “no hassle”, over-the-phone estimate.
P.S. Selecting a stairlift can be a daunting task. Unlike car buying, there are probably questions that you may or some that you have not even thought of that need to be answered. For these buyers, we also recommend visiting our stairlift FAQ page to gain some comfort and insight before venturing into this new endeavor.