What to Look for in Your Stairlift: A Complete Guide for Homeowners When Choosing A Stairlift

As we age, or if mobility issues arise, maintaining independence in the home becomes increasingly important. One area where this often becomes a challenge is navigating stairs and in home elevators. Fortunately, stairlifts offer a safe and convenient solution. However, with so many options on the market, choosing the right stairlift can feel overwhelming. At Kraus Stair Lifts Group, we understand that finding the perfect stairlift requires thoughtful consideration to ensure it meets both your practical needs and lifestyle preferences.

Here’s what to look for when choosing the best stair lift or wheelchair lifts for your home:

1. Safety Features Of Stairlifts

The primary concern for any stairlift and wheelchair lift, is safety. After all, you’ll be relying on this device to safely transport you up and down the stairs. Here are some essential safety features to look for:

Seat Belt: A secure seat belt should be standard in any quality stairlift. It helps ensure you remain safely seated during use. Many models also feature easy-to-use, adjustable belts to accommodate different users.
Swivel Seat: A swivel seat allows for easy entry and exit at the top of the stairs, minimizing the risk of falls. The seat should rotate with a simple turn and lock in place securely.
Safety Sensors: Stairlifts should come equipped with sensors that detect any obstruction on the stairs. If something blocks the path, the stairlift should stop immediately to avoid any accidents. Some stairlifts even come with a “soft start” and “soft stop” feature, which makes the ride smoother and reduces the chance of sudden movements that could lead to discomfort or injury.
Locking Mechanism: A locking mechanism at the top and bottom of the track will keep the chair in place when not in use. This helps prevent the stairlift or chair lifts from moving accidentally and ensures that it remains stable.

2. Comfort and Ergonomics of a Chair Lift

Stairlifts should not only be functional but comfortable to use. If you plan to use your stairlift frequently, comfort will be a top priority.

Seat and Backrest Padding: Look for padded seats and backrests that provide comfort during lift use. Many stairlift models offer adjustable padding to fit the user’s preferences.
Adjustable Armrests: Adjustable armrests ensure that the seat feels personalized for the user. Whether the user is tall or short, the armrests should be able to accommodate different body types for optimal comfort.
Footrest: The footrest should be easy to adjust and sturdy enough to provide support. Make sure it’s also wide enough to comfortably accommodate your feet, as this will impact the overall comfort of the ride.
Smooth Ride: A stairlift should operate quietly and smoothly, without any jerking or jarring movements. Look for models that are known for their smooth operation, as this will make the journey more comfortable for users with delicate balance or movement issues.

3. Tip to Track Configuration

The type of staircase you have plays a significant role in choosing the right stairlift. Whether your stairs are straight or curved, the track system needs to be custom-fit to the layout of your staircase.

Straight Stairs: If you have straight stairs, an off-the-shelf model may be an option. These stairlifts are typically less expensive and are quicker to install since the track doesn’t need to be customized.
Curved Stairs: For curved or spiral stairs, a custom-built stairlift will be required for the best accessibility. These lifts have a curved track that follows the exact contours of your staircase. While these stairlifts tend to be more expensive due to the customization process, they’re the best option for homes with unique staircase configurations to allow for easy access.

When looking at the track, consider whether it’s made from durable materials such as stainless steel or aluminum, which are both sturdy and resistant to rust and corrosion.

4. Power Source: Battery vs. Electric

Most modern stairlifts are powered by rechargeable batteries, though some also have an optional electric connection. When choosing between these options, consider the following:

Battery-Powered: A battery-powered stairlift works even during power outages, making it a more reliable option. Most stairlifts have a battery that lasts several days before needing to be recharged. The charger is usually installed at the top or bottom of the stairs, and the stairlift will return to its charging station automatically.
Electric-Powered: Electric stairlifts are more common for homes that don’t experience frequent power outages. However, if your area has unreliable electricity, a battery-powered model is generally the better option for a stair chair.

5. Ease of Use

Your stairlift should be easy to operate, with intuitive controls that don’t require a lot of strength or coordination. Some key features to look for in terms of usability include:

Joystick vs. Toggle Switch: Many stairlifts use a simple joystick or toggle switch to control the movement. Both options are easy to use, but some users find a joystick offers more fluid control, while a toggle switch might feel more straightforward.
Remote Control: Some models come with a remote control that lets you call or send the stairlift to the top or bottom of the stairs. This can be especially helpful if more than one person uses the stairlift, as it reduces the need to get in and out of the chair to move it.
Easy-to-Reach Controls: Controls should be easy to reach from a seated position. Look for ergonomic designs that don’t require too much bending or stretching to operate.

6. Aesthetics and Design Of Stairlifts

Your stairlift should blend well with your home’s interior decor and fit the length and size of your stairs. While functionality and safety are paramount, you’ll likely want a model that suits your style and doesn’t detract from the aesthetics of your home.

Color Options: Many stairlift manufacturers offer various color choices for the seat and rails. Choose a color that complements your stairs or room design.
Foldable Design: Some stairlifts feature a foldable seat, armrests, and footrest, which make them more compact when not in use. This can be a good option for those who have limited space on their staircase or want to maintain an unobstructed path for others in the household. Make sure you check the area and take measurements of the stairs where installation will be taking place.

7. Price and Warranty

Cost is a crucial factor when purchasing a stair lift. Prices can vary depending on the features and the customization required for your staircase. It’s important to compare models within your budget range and be aware of additional costs, such as installation, service fees, or maintenance.

Look for stairlifts that come with a solid warranty to protect your investment. A good warranty should cover both parts and labor for at least one to two years, with the option for extended coverage for the stair lift.

8. Installation and Maintenance Of A Stair Lift In Your Home

Professional installation is essential for a stairlift’s proper function and safety. Be sure to choose a reputable provider, such as Kraus Stair Lifts Group, that offers reliable installation services. After installation, regular maintenance is key to keeping your stairlift in top condition.

Look for a provider that offers ongoing support, including maintenance checks, service, and repairs when needed. A trusted stairlift provider should be responsive and available to help if any issues arise.

Conclusion

Choosing the right stairlift involves balancing safety, comfort, and practicality with personal preference and budget. By considering key features such as safety mechanisms, comfort options, track configuration, power sources, and design, you can find a stairlift that helps you maintain your independence and move through your home with ease. If you have any questions or need expert advice on choosing the best stairlift for your needs, contact Kraus Stair Lifts Group, where we are dedicated to helping you live safely and comfortably at home.