3 Things To Consider When Choosing A Stair Lift

Posted on: 18 July 2022

A stair lift is a great option for mobility-impaired homeowners to maintain independence. If a stair lift seems like the right choice for you, you probably have a few questions before you buy. This guide will explain three things to consider when choosing a stair lift to help you find the perfect option for your home.

1. Staircase Type

The first step in finding the right stair lift is choosing one that will fit your home. Standard stairlifts are designed to be used with straight staircases. If you need to install a lift on a curved staircase, you will need a lift designed for this purpose. Curved stair lifts have rails that can be bent to match the contour of the stairs throughout their entire length.

You must also consider the width of your staircase when choosing a stair lift. Staircases that are narrower than approximately three feet may present problems during installation unless you choose a more compact lift. Retractable stair lifts are an excellent choice for narrow staircases because they can move out of the way completely when needed.

2. Safety Features

Quality stair lifts include several safety features to make your home more accessible. Among the simplest of these are belts or harnesses that hold the rider in place comfortably and securely. A feature as simple as a swiveling seat can enhance safety by allowing you to step off in the correct direction at the top or bottom of your stairs.

Safety sensors are an advanced feature to look for in a new stair lift. These sensors detect any obstructions in the path of the lift and stop the seat safely before a collision can occur. Smooth start and stop functions are features that prevent unnecessary jolts as the lift comes to a stop.

3. Warranty and Continued Service

A stair lift is meant to provide enhanced mobility around your home for years to come. This is why a warranty and continued service from your installers are a crucial part of choosing a stair lift. Look for a stair lift installer who backs their lifts up with lifetime warranties for parts and labor. This way, you can have peace of mind that your lift will be repaired quickly if you ever need it.

Stair lifts allow homeowners of any age and mobility level to maintain their independence. Use these tips to find a stair lift that will best serve your needs.

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