Stairlift Battery Replacement: Everything You Need to Know
Does your stairlift need battery replacement? If your stairlift has started moving slowly, stops midway, or won’t respond at all, the battery might be the problem. Most modern stairlifts are battery powered, which ensures smooth and quiet operation even during a power cut. But like any battery, they don’t last forever.
In this guide, we explain when and why stairlift battery replacement is necessary, how long stairlift batteries last, and what to do if yours needs replacing.
How Do Stairlift Batteries Work?
Stairlifts typically run on rechargeable sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries, similar to what you’d find in mobility scooters or alarm systems. They charge automatically when the stairlift is parked at a charging point, usually at the top or bottom of the stairs.
The batteries power the stairlift motor and control systems, meaning the lift will work even during a power cut — but only for a limited number of trips before the batteries drain.
Signs You May Need a Stairlift Battery Replacement
Look out for these warning signs:
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Beeping or warning sounds when idle or in use
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Slow or jerky movement going up or down the stairs
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Stops midway or fails to reach the charging point
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Lift doesn’t move at all, even when powered on
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Frequent power cutouts during travel
If your stairlift shows any of the above symptoms, the batteries could be nearing the end of their life.
How Long Do Stairlift Batteries Last?
On average, stairlift batteries last 3 to 5 years, depending on:
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How often the stairlift is used
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Whether it’s regularly parked on the charging point
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Environmental conditions like temperature and humidity
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Battery quality and model
To maximise battery life, always park your stairlift at its charging station when not in use.
Can I Replace Stairlift Batteries Myself?
While some technically-minded individuals may attempt a DIY stairlift battery replacement, we strongly recommend using a professional. Here’s why:
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Stairlift batteries are housed inside the lift carriage, which may require disassembly
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The replacement process can affect calibration and safety settings
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Using the wrong battery type can damage the unit or void your warranty
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A professional can also check for other issues, such as charger faults or worn-out components
How Much Does Stairlift Battery Replacement Cost?
The cost of stairlift battery replacement in the UK typically ranges from £100 to £200, including labour and call-out charges. The exact price can vary depending on:
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The stairlift model and manufacturer
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The number of batteries required (most use 2)
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Your location and call-out distance
Some stairlift service providers offer maintenance plans that cover battery replacements as part of a yearly check-up, which may work out more cost-effective in the long run.
Need Help with Stairlift Battery Replacement?
If your stairlift isn’t performing as it should, don’t wait for it to stop completely. A quick battery replacement can get it running safely and smoothly again.
📞 Call us today on 0800 046 3438 to book a stairlift battery check or replacement.
Or, contact us online and our friendly team will get back to you to arrange a visit at your convenience.
Stairlift Battery Replacement – What To Do?
You should first check your stairlift is plugged in at the mains and turned on. If your stairlift isn’t receiving electricity from the mains, the battery will run down fairly quickly. So before you go looking to replace the batteries, make sure you’re plugged in and switched on!
Modern stairlifts are run by batteries so they still work in a power outage. However, they are charged from the mains electric, so batteries run down fast once unplugged. if your stairlift is plugged in and turned on at the mains, and you’ve given it a chance to charge the batteries, they could have run flat. This is especially likely if your stairlift hasn’t been used for a while.
Stairlift Battery Replacement – 2 X 12 Volt Batteries
Most modern stairlifts are run on two 12 volt batteries housed in the base unit. To get to them, you will need to remove the front panel. It is advisable to get a qualified engineer to fix a broken stairlift, especially if you’re unsure. Call us on 0800 046 3438 and we can help you.
Make sure you have switched off the stairlift at the mains plug before attempting to remove the cover. With the cover removed you should see the two 12 volt batteries somewhere housed in the base unit.
Removal of the base unit cover will differ from one stairlift model to another. Some are clipped and others may be screwed down. Be cautious not to break the clips when removing a base unit cover.
Stairlift Battery Replacement – Thyssen Flow
In the above video the batteries are being installed in order to remove the old stairlift (Flow) from a rail and replace it with a new one. You can see where the batteries are going in the base unit. Be careful to wire up correctly with the two leads and then slide them into the base unit.
When removing your old batteries, note the orientation of the positive and negative terminals and make sure you re-wire in the correct orientation (positive to positive on the battery, and negative to negative on the battery).
Once you have rewired the new batteries, you can slide them back into the housing and replace the cover.
See also our page on servicing, repairs and maintenance.
Final Thoughts
Stairlift battery replacement is a simple but essential part of keeping your lift reliable and safe. If you notice any signs of battery failure, it’s best to act quickly — and always trust a qualified technician to handle the replacement.
For fast, affordable battery replacements and stairlift servicing, get in touch with our team today.
Stairlift battery replacement should be your first port of call when something goes wrong. One of the most common causes of stairlift problems is run down batteries. So it makes sense to do this first, if your stairlift isn’t working properly.