Modern stairlifts are far superior to the stairlifts of yesteryear! They now have far more safety features, gismos and gadgets. The stairlifts of today are also much more adaptable than stairlifts once were; with the ability to navigate narrow, awkward and curved staircases.
So whether you or a loved one are in need of a stairlift, checkout some of these stairlifts and their amazing functionality!
Modern Stairlifts – Safety
You can be assured that with the most up to date stairlifts, safety is of primary concern. Modern stairlifts are fitted with exemplary safety features. They include sensors surrounding the chair, which can identify obstacles and stop if necessary. They include swivel seats which turn at the top and bottom of the staircase, allowing easy access.
Modern stairlifts have smart detection systems which ensure armrests are properly positioned before movement. Seatbelts feature one-handed operation, and wrap-around armrests enhance security during travel.
Here’s a modern stairlift from ThyssenKrupp called Flow X.
Modern Stairlifts – Agility
Modern stairlifts can be programmed to navigate incredibly tight corners too, and swivel while ascending – allowing their installation in very tight and difficult staircases. The old school stairlift is thought of as an outward facing chair, and a straight rail. But new, modern stairlifts can be installed in the tightest of stairwells, and on curving and even spiral staircases.
Another Thyssen model, the Flow 2 exemplifies the agility of modern stairlifts. Here’s one on a very tight stairway. The ability to face downwards gives you much more room for manoeuvre, even in a very awkward space. Here’s a Thyssen Flow 2 model stairlift facing downstairs as it travels.
Modern Stairlifts – Space Saving
This model, the Thyssen Flow 2 can navigate staircases as narrow as 61cm and can fold down when not in use to a width of only 38cm. This makes it perfect for navigating tight, awkward staircases where there’s not much room. Previously this would have been impossible, but it’s no problem for some modern stairlifts.
Thyssen also do another model, the Thyssen Homeglide stairlift which is capable of retracting its rail behind it to accommodate a doorway or corridor.
This is another great feature of a stairlift which makes it more accessible in even small houses with little space at the base of the stairs. The Thyssen Homeglide can even be stored further up the rail, to avoid obstruction and called with a remote control placed on the wall when needed.
Optional Extras
Today’s stairlifts are also loaded with optional extra features, such as a push button folding operation for storage and a power swivel seat for easy access.
The Flow X stairlift, even includes an optional integrated call device, programmable with up to three numbers. So you can contact anyone from your stairlift using your phone!
Modern Stairlifts – Railing
The railing system on a modern stairlifts allows for an aesthetically pleasing look while maintaining function. Here’s the Thyssen Flow 2 stairlift with rail. No more large, clunky chains with big overlays to hide the workings inside!
A rack and pinion system allows the movement of the chair without a chain. The mechanism is hidden with the base of the chair, allowing a minimalist look on the outside of the rail.
Rails can also be designed specifically for any staircase, allowing free movement in just about any home.
Here’s a video of the Thyssen Flow X stairlift model.
Summary
The stairlifts of today are far superior to the stairlifts from even only from 10 years ago. Gone is the clunky chain drive system and large rail “box” running up your staircase. Modern rails are aesthetically pleasing and minimalist. They can be installed on nearly any staircase, including straight, curved and even spiral staircases!
Modern safety features include sensors surrounding the chair which can detect obstacles. Chairlifts an slow during tight corners and pivot the chair while ascending to navigate tight bends in your staircase.
Stairlifts are no longer directly mains powered and use batteries so they can function in a power cut and reduce electricity consumption. The average modern stairlift uses only around 24-35 watts of energy per hour, less than most common household appliances.
For more information, a quote or an assessment, call us on 0800 046 3438.