Here’s some FAQs – common Frequently Asked Questions asked by our customers:
How Long Before A Stairlift Can Be Fitted?
Once we have your measurements and you’ve decided on a specific model, we can usually have your stairlift fitted with a few weeks, sometimes even quicker. With certain staircases it might be a little longer if a particular rail needs ordering, for example. Straight stairlifts are usually simpler to organise and often can be fitted within a week, depending on how busy we are. With curved stairlifts it can take a little longer.
If you have an urgent need for a stairlift fitting, talk with our staff. We can often arrange a short notice fitting if one is required urgently. Call us on 0800 046 3438 or visit our contact page.
How Long Will My Stairlift Installation Take?
Our engineers are very skilled and efficient in what they do. They can usually be in and out of your home within the same day. They will always operate a full clean-up operation after every job. A straight stairlift installation will generally be quicker than a curved stairlift.
For a straight stairlift, and single flight of stairs, it’s around 2-3 hours. For a curved staircase, you’re looking at more like 3-4 hours depending on how long your staircase is. See also stairlift installation for more on fitting.
How Much Will I Pay For My Stairlift?
A variety of factors such as the size and shape of your staircase will influence the price of installation. No matter what, you can rest assured that UK Stairlifts Ltd will provide you with only the most competitive prices. Second hand stairlifts can range from as little as £990 with new stairlifts ranging from £1500 to £4000+.
See stairlift prices for more information.
Are There Any Weight Restrictions On My Stairlift?
This is dependent on the make and model of your stairlift. However, a standard weight restriction is 115kg, with a maximum of 160kg (25 stone) on some models. Heavy duty stairlifts can carry heavier loads that standard stairlifts – up to 30 stone in some cases.
If your stairlift is likely to be carrying a heavier than average stone, chat to one of our staff. Or, if you expect the weight of the user to go up beyond the standard limit, it’s definitely worth considering a heavy weight stairlift.
How Will My Stairlift Work?
Stairlifts are attached to the stairs using strong brackets. Powered by a rechargeable battery, which is connected to the mains electricity, the lift charges itself when standing still.
Stairlifts work through the charge in the battery so you won’t get stranded if there’s a power cut. It’s still important to keep your stairlift plugged in however; otherwise the batteries won’t stay charged up for long!
Will My Lift Work In A Power Cut?
Even in the event of a power cut, you won’t have to worry; the lift will retain enough power for 6-12 more trips. The battery is connected to the main electricity but holds enough charge for several hours of operation.
How Is A Stairlift Attached?
People often think that a stairlift is connected to the wall. However, stairlifts are connected directly to the staircase using strong brackets. This means the weight is absorbed by the staircase and not your wall.
So you get get any wall damage by installing a stairlift. The only thing to consider if you’re concerned about wall damage is the hand rail, which may need to be removed for the fitting.
Should I Buy A New or Second Hand Stairlift?
There are advantages and disadvantages for each choice. New stairlifts have longer warranties, will utilise the newest technology and are easier to repair. A reconditioned stairlift will be cheaper and are still relatively new so will last a long time.
Second hand stair lifts are more affordable and are a good option on a budget. We only recondition the best quality second hand stairlifts and offer a 2 year warranty on all of our reconditioned units.
What If Something Goes Wrong With My Stairlift?
We thoroughly check and test stairlifts for quality assurance before they leave the warehouse. If something happens to your stairlift – don’t panic! All of our lifts come with a 12 month labour and parts warranty as standard. If there are any problems contact us on 0800 046 3438.
Our reconditioned stairlifts come with a 2 year warrantee and you can also purchase a warrantee on a stairlift even if you haven’t purchased it from us, dependant on a survey and service.
What Model Of Stairlift Should I Choose?
The recommended model you choose will depend on the type of staircase you have (straight or curved), your budget and whether you choose a new stairlift or a reconditioned model. Here at UK StairLifts we choose the stairlifts which we believe offer the best value for money and the highest quality assurance. See our brands for more details on the models we offer.
A popular brand is Thyssen stairlifts for both straight and curved stairlifts. If you have a particularly narrow staircase, we can recommend a model which is most appropriate. See also stairlifts for narrow stairs.
What’s Involved In The Installation Process?
Before installation we will have already measured your staircase and ordered the relevant parts. So during the installation of your stairlift, we will be removing any obstacles (such as handrails) and ensuring your stairlift is properly functional. This involves building the rail and attaching it to the staircase, and programming the stairlift so that it knows how to move properly.
Electrical outputs will need to be attached too, so the lift can properly charge when resting. See stairlift installation for more details.
I Have A Very Narrow Staircase – Is A Lift Suitable?
If your staircase is very narrow, you might think that a stairlift is out of the question. However, we will likely recommend a particular model if you have little space on your stairs. Thyssen Stairlifts can accommodate very tight staircases – even as narrow as only 61 cm. So even with a curved staircase, and even spiral staircases you can accommodate a stairlift with the right model, such as the Thyssen Flow 2 Stairlift or Flow X stairlift models.
If you have any other questions not listed here, please do not hesitate to contact us for trusted advice on your personal circumstances.
Contact our expert stairlift engineers us on 0800 046 3438, email us on info@ukstairlifts.com or visit our contact page.