Page Title: The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Stairlifts

Meta Description: If you are looking to get a stairlift installed, you might have some questions. Read on to discover the most frequently asked questions about stairlifts.

Keywords: stairlift installation Banbury, curved stairlift, stairlift service

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The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Stairlifts

If you are planning to get a stairlift installation in your home, then you’ll likely want to know the answers to some important questions.

Keep reading for our informative Q&A guide, in which we include detailed answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about stairlifts to help you make your decision quickly and easily.

How Do Stairlifts Work?

A stairlift is basically a chair that is attached to an electrically-operated rail or track that effortlessly takes you up and down the stairs.

All modern stairlifts are powered by long-lasting batteries which get continually recharged by a mains trickle feed power supply when the seat is at the top or the bottom of the rail, where it is connected to a charging station.

Can stairlifts go around corners?

Yes! There are many different types of stairlifts that can be suited to a range of staircases. Our curved stairlift solutions are capable of going around some of the tightest track bends on the market, offering a smooth, judder-free ride with optimum safety – even on staircases with curves and turns.

Are stairlifts just for elderly people?

While stairlifts are mostly used by elderly people, anyone who has suffered an injury, illness or mobility issue that makes it difficult to walk up and down the stairs can benefit from a stairlift.

For example, if you suffered a knee injury, a stairlift can make your everyday routine much easier while you recover.

If there’s a power cut, will I be stuck?

No, not at all! All modern stairlifts have a powerful battery that is regularly trickle charged each time the stairlift is at its charging point at the top or the bottom of the stairs, which keeps it operating for between 4 and 8 hours.

Will the stairlift take up the whole staircase?

No, stairlifts do not take up the whole staircase.

After a stairlift installation, there will still be room for others to use the stairs by foot if needed, so you can have a stairlift installed in a family of those who have mobility issues and those who do not.

The chair’s arms, seat and footrest can also be folded out of the way at the top and bottom landing of the staircase, thus creating room for foot traffic on the stairs.

How do I choose a suitable stairlift?

It’s important to think about your needs and your budget when it comes to choosing a stairlift. Here at Alfix, we offer a selection of stairlifts for your home, including both new and refurbished straight or curved solutions.

If you’re unsure of what type of stairlift you’re after, get in touch with our team!

Can I rent a stairlift?

Absolutely! It’s important to check with your installation company first, however many stairlifts can be rented. Here at Alfix, we offer both curved and straight stairlift rental options across our various locations.

Are stairlifts safe?

When installed correctly, stairlifts are extremely safe. Most modern stairlifts are purposefully designed with added safety features, which can help to keep the stairlift user safe even if something goes wrong.

Some common safety features include:

• Seatbelts
• Safety sensors
• Speed controls
• Emergency stops
• Swivel seats
• Independent batteries

It’s important to note that not every stairlift will feature the same safety measures, so if you’re looking for something in particular it’s best to contact your stairlift supplier directly.

Do stairlifts use a lot of electricity?

No! Stairlifts can be powered differently depending on their configuration; some are plugged into the mains, while others are powered by battery (usually giving you about 20-40 trips). Stairlifts are extremely efficient to run, using up about as much electricity as a small TV that is on standby.

How often should a stairlift be serviced?

Your stairlift should be serviced at least every 12 months. This is just to ensure that everything is operating smoothly and there are no faults with your stairlift.

To keep your stairlift in great condition for years to come, you will likely need to carry out some maintenance between each service. Cleaning, for example, should include dusting the rail and wiping the chair. You should also routinely inspect your stairlift for any damage, including the track, and make sure that there are no obstructions in the stairlift’s path.

How long will a stairlift take to install?

Here at Alfix, our installation service is seamless and hassle free, taking only a few hours at most. We place a great importance on completing our installations efficiently and properly so that you can avoid future problems or damage.

Is there a weight limit for stairlifts?

There will be a weight limit for your stairlift, however this may vary between different models, so be sure to check with your supplier. Typically, the weight limit for stairlifts is between 19 and 29 stone, but always double check this as it may vary.

What if I have a narrow staircase?

Don’t worry about having a narrow staircase, or an awkward shape in your home. Our installation service means we can tackle any staircase. Our priority is ensuring a safe installation that accommodates your needs properly.

What if the stairlift is at the opposite end of the stairs to me?

If you find yourself at the opposite end of the stairs to your stairlift, no need to worry. Our stairlifts come with remote controls that you can keep with you, meaning you can call your stairlift up or down with the touch of a button!

Can stairlifts be fitted to any stairs?

Different types of stairlifts are designed to suit different types of stairs. There are both straight and curved stairlifts available, for both traditional staircases and stairs with 90 degree angles – so don’t worry, there will be a stairlift available to suit your stairs.

Are stairlifts noisy?

Generally speaking, stairlifts are designed to be quiet and therefore emit only a low level of sound. Modern stairlifts operate quietly and smoothly, ensuring that they offer a pleasant experience for the user while travelling between floors.

As stairlifts should not be considered loud or disruptive, any excessive noise or unusual sounds can often indicate a serious problem with the system. If your stairlift is becoming louder or making abnormal noises, contact the manufacturer directly or speak to your professional local experts in stairlifts.

Is it possible to test a stairlift before purchase?

You can usually test a stairlift in the showroom. We have offices throughout the UK, so make sure you find one to visit us. This is advantageous as you will be able to see a stairlift in action and examine the seats to see how you like them.

Are all stairlifts the same?

No, there are a variety of stairlift options available, including ones designed specifically for spiral staircases. Your home and needs will be taken into account as you determine which stairlift works best in your situation. It’s always a good idea to think ahead and consider what options you may need a few years from now.

How is a stairlift installed?

The method of installation is rather simple. We just attach the stairlift rail to the stair treads.

The number of supports depends on the staircase design. A technician will examine and measure your stairs and then design the lift to suit your needs. Installation on a regular straight stair should only take a few hours.

Will I need to do renovations to install a stairlift?

In most homes, no changes are necessary. The stairlift legs attach to the stair treads and the stairlift itself will be tucked away when not in use. This means that the stairs may be used as usual when the stairlift is not in use.

We will measure everything before beginning the installation process to ensure there’s enough space for your knees as you move up the stairs. If not, then some minor adjustments may be necessary, but nothing too extensive.

Alfix: Stairlift company in Aylesbury

Now that we have answered your frequently asked questions about stairlifts, we hope you’re feeling more prepared to get yours installed. At Alfix, we offer stairlift installations in Banbury and beyond.

For the best stairlift services, get in touch with us at mail@alfixstairlifts.com here today for more information.