stairlift-fitted-at-the-bottom-of-stairs

Choosing The Right Stairlift – Buyer’s Guide

A common issue when posed with a medical condition or illness that affects a person’s manoeuvrability is getting up and down a staircase in the home. Nowadays, there is a variety of mobility aids out there to assist the movement from one floor to another.

If you have been doing research, you will have seen that a popular option is a Stairlift. However, we understand that choosing the right Stairlift for your specific needs can be daunting with the hundreds of options in front of you. This is why we have created a buyers guide to help you in your search for the right Stairlift!

What Is A Stairlift?

A Stairlift is an electronic device that aids the transportation of a person with mobility limitations up and down the stairs in a home. Typically, a Stairlift functions on a railing system which allows for a smooth and seamless trip from one floor to the other. Stairlifts are built to move at a slow pace along the staircase to ensure complete comfort and safety during use.

Through the evolution of Stairlifts, they are now fitted on the stair treads rather than on the wall. On top of this, Stairlifts can be fitted on curved staircases; although this can be a little more complicated for installation.

The Different Types of Stairlifts

Stairlifts are constantly evolving in order to suit as many specific cases as possible. It can be quite overwhelming when you start to look into the different types of Stairlifts that are on the market. Overall, there are 4 common types of Stairlifts at the moment. Below, we have described the key differences between the options.

STRAIGHT STAIRLIFT

With this type of Stairlift, the name is on the tin, perfect for a home with a straight staircase. This is the most candid type of design. This device will include a chair, footplate, safety features and control panel.

CURVED STAIRLIFT

Not all homes have a perfectly straight staircase, implying the need for a curved Stairlift. They are very similar to the straight Stairlift; however, designed to adapt with more moment and configurations for installation.

OUTSIDE STAIRLIFT

Exterior Stairlifts are very similar to its internal equivalent. It’s main feature differences are the specially assembled weatherproof and durable materials. This type of Stairlift is commonly used for homes that have a flight of stairs to the front door.

PERCH STAIRLIFT

A Perch Stairlift is designed to aid the mobility of a user that cannot bend their body to a seated position. The user will be able to stand/perch on the Stairlift and control the movement as easily as any other lift. This perching feature has the added benefit of being narrower, which accommodates slimmer staircases.

What Are The Benefits Of Installing a Stairlift?

A Stairlift is perfect for a person with mobility restrictions; typically, caused by illness or medical conditions. At The Mobility Aids Centre, we have had many customers come to us with such conditions for several years. Once equipped with a Stairlift in their home, they have said that it has transformed their life. Not only does it allow them to rediscover rooms in their home but it also creates an important level of independence!

Stairs can be very dangerous when suffering from mobility limitations, a fall can be life-threatening. When there is little choice for not using the stairs in a home, it can cause a lot of stress for the person and the people around them. A Stairlift eliminates those two key issues by providing a safe and reliable alternative.

The installation of a Stairlift is very swift, taking no more than half a day to install and demonstrate how to use. The area will be left in the same condition as found upon arrival of the installers. There will be no need to redecorate or replace stair coverings afterwards.

Finding The Right Stairlift For Your Home

Firstly, it is important to understand the type of design you are looking for, as listed above. Once you know what specific design you need, the next step is to determine how will it be powered?

Stairlifts will typically be battery-powered or connected to the mains. The power source right for you depends on the power situation available by your staircase. We would typically recommend having a staircase that is connected to the main power source for two reasons.

  1. In case of a power cut, the Stairlift will have a battery-powered backup to prevent being stuck on one floor.
  2. The modern-day Stairlift has energy economy in mind, meaning daily use will not dramatically impact your electricity bill.

After you have chosen the power source for your new Stairlift, it is time to start shopping. With there being so many choices on the internet, we would recommend getting in contact with a Stairlift specialist to help you find a reliable, safe and practical Stairlift within your price range.

To speak to a Stairlift expert at now, give us a call today on 01733 342242 or visit us in our Peterborough Showroom to view our Stairlift product range!

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