The Disadvantages of Stair Lifts: What You Need to Consider Before Buying

While stair lifts are a fantastic mobility aid for many people, they may not be the perfect solution for everyone. In this article, we’ll take an honest look at the disadvantages of stair lifts to help you make an informed decision.

1. Cost Can Be High

One of the most common drawbacks is the price. A new stair lift can cost anywhere from £1,500 to £7,000+, depending on whether you need a straight or curved model. Additional features and installation fees can drive up the total price. If you’re on a budget however, consider a reconditioned stairlift which can save you up to 50% off the cost of a new stairlift.

2. Not Always Suitable for All Staircases

While straight staircases are generally easy to accommodate, stair lifts may not be ideal for:

• Narrow staircases where clearance is tight
• Spiral or very steep staircases
• Homes where structural modifications may be necessary

In some cases, a stair lift may simply not fit or may obstruct access for other users. However for difficult or awkward staircases we find they Thyssen stairlifts are a good fit, whatever the issue might be. Here’s a fitting we did on a spiral staircase:

3.The Disadvantages of Stair Lifts: May Not Address All Mobility Needs

A stair lift helps with going up and down stairs, but it doesn’t address other mobility challenges within the home. For users who also need wheelchair access between floors, alternative solutions such as home elevators or through-floor lifts may be required. A wheelchair lift can be considerably more expensive to fit since it requires a static platform which may require planning permission.

4. Maintenance & Repairs

Like any mechanical device, stair lifts require regular servicing to stay in good working condition. Repairs or battery replacements can add to long-term costs, especially if the stair lift is out of warranty. Here at UK Stairlifts we offer a full 2 year warranty on all our stairlifts, whether you buy a new or reconditioned stairlift.

5. Potential for Power Outages

Most modern stair lifts operate on rechargeable batteries, but if you don’t maintain them properly, you could be left stranded during a power outage or if the batteries fail. Modern stairlifts use batteries which are charged from the mains, so this is an unlikely event however. Batteries can hold a charge in a power outage, giving you several trips before they eventually fail.

6. Reduced Aesthetic Appeal

Some homeowners find stair lifts to be visually intrusive. Even sleek models may clash with certain interior designs or make a home feel more clinical. Still, modern stairlifts tend to be neutral in colours to fit with most surroundings.

7. Resale Value Can Be Low

Since stair lifts are often tailored to specific staircases, resale value tends to be limited. Curved models, in particular, are harder to resell due to their custom rails. A custom rail may not be useable with another staircase and a portion of the cost of a stairlift is the fitting cost.

The Disadvantages of Stair Lifts: Is a Stair Lift Still Worth It?

Despite the disadvantages of stair lifts, they remain a valuable tool for many people looking to maintain independence and safety at home. Understanding the limitations helps you weigh the pros and cons before making a commitment.

Alternatives to Stair Lifts

• Home lifts for multi-level access
• Platform lifts for wheelchair users
• Reconfiguring living space to stay on one floor
• See also our post on best alternatives to stairlifts

Reduced Incentive For Exercise

Of course once you have purchased a stairlift, there’s less reason to physically climb the staircase. So if you’re able to use the stairs by yourself safely, this should be a consideration when considering a stairlift purchase. If moving around your home is one of the main exercises you get, it’s worth staying mobile as long as you can before getting a stairlift which removes this natural form of exercise in the home.

Once you fit a stairlift, you’ll exercise less because you won’t be physically climbing the stairs.

Final Thoughts

While there are undeniable disadvantages of stair lifts, they can still be the right solution for many households. Always consult a mobility expert to explore all your options.

📞 Need help deciding if a stair lift is right for you? Contact us today for free advice and a personalised recommendation! Call 0800 046 3438 for a chat with one of our team.