The Most Googled Stairlift Questions (And the Answers You Need)
If you’re considering a stairlift for yourself or a loved one, chances are you’ve turned to Google. Well, you are in good company. From concerns about cost and safety to queries about installation and functionality, there’s much to consider when choosing the right stairlift.
At Companion Stairlifts, we specialise in providing high-quality stairlift solutions for homes across the UK. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most frequently asked questions about stairlifts, which people search for online, providing clear and straightforward answers.
How to choose a stairlift?
When choosing a stairlift, you should consider the following:
- Do I need a straight stairlift or a curved stairlift?
- Is this a long-term or short-term investment?
- What features are important to me?
At Companion Stairlifts, we can offer a free, no-obligation quote for your stairlift.
READ MORE: How to choose a stairlift
How much does a stairlift cost?
Stairlift prices can start at around £2,000. A Which? Survey has found that the average cost of a stairlift is £3,867. However, due to their custom nature, whether you need a straight or curved stairlift, and if additional features like powered swivel seats or retractable rails are required, the cost of a stairlift can vary.
Call us on 0808 303 7369 to learn more.
Can I get a grant for a stairlift in the UK?
You can get a grant for a stairlift in the UK. You can receive financial aid in many ways to help you acquire a stairlift. The government, charities like SSAFA- The Armed Forces Charity, local authorities, and other organisations offer stairlift grants.
READ MORE: Financing a stairlift & stairlift grants
How much does stairlift insurance cost?
All the stairlifts we sell at Companion come with a fully comprehensive 12-month warranty. There is also the option of investing in an extended warranty after the first 12 months’ guarantee expires. Stairlift insurance in the UK costs around £40 to £150 per year for basic policies and £150 to over £500 per year for comprehensive policies.
READ MORE: Stairlift aftercare
What type of stairlift is cheapest?
Straight stairlifts are the cheapest type of stairlift as they are designed for staircases without any turns or curves and are more affordable as they use a pre-made track. Curved stairlifts require custom-made tracks to fit specific staircases, making their price higher.
How to get a stairlift from social services?
You may be able to get a stairlift from social services if you are referred to one of several organisations through a health or social care professional. For example, your local council may advise you to apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant. Alternatively, Independence At Home offers grants of up to £2,000 for a stairlift through social services.
Can you get a stairlift on the NHS?
The NHS does not provide stairlifts. Although you cannot get a stairlift from the NHS, they can help you get one. Your local council offers a service that assesses your home and recommends changes to help, which is free. The NHS can help you organise this free home survey.
Can stairlifts be fitted to any stairs?
Yes, stairlifts can be designed to fit any type of stairs, including straight, curved, and even spiral staircases. The width, shape and space available can influence the type of stairlift you need.
READ MORE: A guide to stair lift installation
Who can fit a stairlift in my home?
Companion Stairlifts can. We offer expert home assessments, custom-fit stairlifts, and professional installation tailored to your staircase.
How long does it take to install a stairlift in the UK?
It typically takes around two hours for a straight or curved stairlift to be installed by a professional. This includes the installation of a stairlift and teaching residents about how to use the model correctly and how to clean and maintain it. In some cases, we offer same-day installation.
How do stairlifts work?
Stairlifts have three essential components to run smoothly; other elements are there for user comfort. The three main components that make a stairlift work are:
- Motor - This is what powers a stairlift's movement and is battery-powered.
- Battery- Used to power the stairlift, the battery is located in the base of the stairlift and powers the motor. The batteries used in our stairlifts are high-quality and extremely long-lasting.
- Gear - The gear is what moves the stairlift. The geared strip is built into the track and moves up and down.
READ MORE: How do stairlifts work and other key information
How to measure for a stairlift?
You will not need to measure your stairlift, as one of our professionals will do it on a free home assessment. They can also discuss stairlift installation and answer any questions you may have. There are four main measurements that professional stairlift engineers will make, and these are:
- Measure the length of the staircase
- Measure the width of the staircase
- The amount of clearance beside the top step
- The amount of clearance beside the bottom step
Can stairlifts go around corners?
Yes, curved stairlifts are designed to go around staircases with corners, turns, bends, or even spiral configurations.
Are stairlifts safe?
Stairlifts are incredibly safe. All of the models sold at Companion Stairlifts have many safety features, so customers can have total confidence in using their mobility aids. With a steady speed of 0.16-0.34mph, seat belts, and safety sensors which will detect any potential obstructions in the way of the tracks, all of the stairlifts we sell have passed multiple safety standards. Regular servicing of your stairlift will ensure it remains safe and continues to run at optimum capacity.
READ MORE: Stairlift safety
What is the lifespan of a stairlift?
A new, well-maintained stairlift typically lasts around 10-15 years. However, the actual lifespan can vary depending on factors like how much it is used, how it is maintained, and the quality of the stairlift itself.
What is the weight limit for stairlifts in the UK?
Our standard models carry up to 21.5 stone, while our XXL models have a weight limit of 31.5 stone. It is important that the straight or curved stairlift is used by only one person at a time to keep the device safe, as well as adhering to the weight guidelines.
Are stairlifts worth it?
Stairlifts are worth the investment, especially for individuals with limited mobility. They provide a safer, more comfortable way to navigate staircases, reduce the risk of falls and increase the independence of those with limited mobility. Stairlifts can be more cost-effective and less disruptive than moving to a single-level home or undergoing significant renovations.
Can you hire stairlifts?
Yes, you can hire a stairlift for your home. Whether you’re recovering from illness or injury, which makes it hard for you to use the stairs, or you have a guest staying at your house who cannot use the stairs unaided, renting a stairlift can be a fantastic short-term option.
READ MORE: Renting a stairlift
Is it better to rent or buy a stairlift?
This depends on your specific needs. If you only need a stairlift for a short time, renting one is more cost-effective. If you will be using a stairlift for long-term use, buying a stairlift is a better long-term investment.
How much does it cost to rent a stairlift in the UK?
The cost of renting a stairlift can vary from one company to another, but it should not usually exceed £10 a week for straight stairlifts, whereas the rental charge for curved models is likely to be higher due to their bespoke nature. There is generally an upfront cost of £1,000 or more, and some companies can require renters to sign a set rental agreement, meaning that you commit to renting a stairlift for a set period.
Where is the reset button on a stairlift?
The reset button on a stairlift is not in a standard location and can vary by make and model. However, the reset button on most stairlift models sold by Companion is located at the bottom of the stairlift under the cover. You should read your stairlift brochure or manual to familiarise yourself with the different available features, and, in particular, its reset buttons.
READ MORE: Stairlift troubleshooting: What are common stairlift issues?
How to stop a stairlift beeping?
You can start by pressing the reset button on your stairlift, but you should refer to the user manual to locate this button. You can turn off the stairlift and disconnect it from its power source before waiting a few minutes and turning it back on again. If your stairlift is beeping persistently, you should call a stairlift engineer, and they will be able to advise you on the issue.
How to manually move a stairlift?
You shouldn’t try to manually move a stairlift if it breaks, and if your stairlift has stopped working, you should call Companion. One of our stairlift engineers will be able to identify any electrical faults or check the battery for problems, and diagnosing these issues professionally will help avoid damaging the stairlift further.
Are stairlifts battery-powered?
Yes, modern stairlifts are generally battery-operated. The stairlifts you can buy from Companion use rechargeable batteries that are charged when the lift is docked at the top or bottom of the staircase, meaning that they will work even when there is a power cut.
Do stairlifts use a lot of electricity?
Stairlifts do not use a lot of electricity, and the cost to run one is affordable. It costs around £12 per year to run a stairlift. The electricity required to power an energy-efficient stairlift is around 0.024 kWh per journey, so based on an average usage of four journeys a day, this use is around 35 kWh/year.
How to remove a stairlift yourself?
You should never try to remove a stairlift by yourself. The removal of stairlifts should always be done by a trained professional via reputable companies. Attempting to remove the device yourself could result in damaged fittings and fixtures in the home, damage to the stairlift or even injury.
READ MORE: Stairlift Removal & Recycling
How much does it cost to remove a stairlift?
If you are buying a stairlift from Companion Stairlifts, our technicians can arrange for the removal and disposal of your old model free of charge.
Who buys second-hand stairlifts?
Another type of stairlift that many people with limited mobility purchase is a used or second-hand model, which is also called a reconditioned stairlift. Many people buy second-hand stairlifts, and you can sell stairlifts through mobility equipment companies or privately to a buyer online.
READ MORE: Used and Second-Hand Stairlifts
What is the most reliable stairlift brand?
Companion Stairlifts are ranked as one of the best and most reliable stairlift brands in the UK, according to Stairlift Experts. We also have a Trustpilot score of 4.6 out of 5.
Handicare, which supplies the stairlifts we sell here at Companion, is regarded as one of the best stairlift brands in the UK, and we are an official Age Co stairlifts partner.
BUTTON: Learn more about Companion Stairlifts
Enquire about stairlifts today
If you are interested in having a stairlift installed at home, get in touch with the experts at Companion Stairlifts. We specialise in stairlift installation and have a range of models available for straight, curved, and narrow staircases.
To get started, we recommend requesting a home visit so one of our stairlift specialists can assess your home and better understand your needs.
