A Guide To Stairlift Prices

Remaining independent is an important part of our overall well-being, especially in our own homes. However, there are often times where this independence may be put at risk, whether through injury, disability or old age, meaning you may be in need of a helping hand. Luckily, innovations in technology have made independent living easier than it has ever been, helping to overcome various obstacles in one’s life. Stairlifts are a prime example of this, opening the upper floors of a home to those who may struggle to make their way up and down the stairs.

Although a stairlift can be extremely beneficial to those who need them, investing in one is still an extremely personal choice that needs ample thought in order to ensure you find the right product for you. Thankfully, stairlift companies such as Alfix can offer a range of investment options to fit your needs. With this in mind, we’ve decided to create a handy guide to stairlift prices so you can rest assured that your money is going toward the perfect stairlift for your household.

From armrests to straight stairlifts: understanding your needs

Before jumping right into investing in a stairlift, it is essential to begin by understanding your needs. For example, your staircase will, of course, determine the type of stairlift that you will need; you will have to invest in different products depending on whether your staircase is straight or curved. It’s also important to check that your staircase has enough width to comfortably fit both the chair and tracks. On average, you will need around 70cm between the wall and the bannister, however, a stairlift company can advise you on your options.

It’s also important to consider certain specificities that you may require for your stairlift. If, for example, you struggle with mobility and balance, stairlifts can come with armrests and seat belts in order for you to feel comfortable when ascending and descending your staircase. It can also be useful to note that, if this is the case for you, you could be entitled to a Disability Facilities Grant from the government, helping to make your home more accessible; you can begin checking your eligibility on the UK Gov Website. 

Finally, if installing a stair lift is part of a larger scale home improvement project you’re working on, look to put your stairlift in last. Decorating and improvements could affect the dimensions of your staircase which could, in turn, affect your stairlift.

Renting or buying your chairlift

Now you have some idea as to what kind of stairlift you need, you can begin looking into the various payment options on offer to customers. For starters, one can choose to either buy their chairlift outright or look to rent a model. The obvious difference between these two options is, of course, the cost, as buying a stairlift is substantially more expensive than simply renting one. Buying a model also means that you are investing in a permanent fixture to your home; this is the best option for individuals with disabilities or older people in need of better access solutions.

On the other hand, renting a stairlift allows the customer to pay what is usually a monthly fee for their chosen product and then returning it when finished with it. This can be an especially useful option for those suffering from an injury that means they currently can’t climb the stairs. Also, when it comes to maintenance, some stairlift companies will cover the cost of your rental, saving you even more money.

It is important to remember, however, that rentals completely depend on the stock of rental chairs a company has to offer, meaning less chance to fully customise your chair to fit your needs. Whatever you decide to choose, a quality stairlift company will be able to advise you throughout the process.

Stairlift costs: new or reconditioned?

Much like the choice between renting and buying, choosing between a new or reconditioned stairlift primarily comes down to the question of price. If you have money in the budget to spend on a new stairlift, this is probably the best option for you. When buying new, it is likely that you’ll receive a warranty from the supplier, giving you peace of mind that you won’t have to fork out substantial amounts of money if you experience any problems in the future. It’s also useful to note that, with a new build, the customisation options are endless, allowing you to pick the perfect stairlift for your home. If you have a curved staircase that requires a specific track design, for example, you are much more likely to find the right fit in the new stairlift market.

However, that isn’t to say that you can’t get a quality reconditioned product these days, with suppliers meticulously servicing them to ensure they are running at optimum efficiency and meet the stringent safety regulations. By investing in a reconditioned model, you stand to save hundreds if not thousands of pounds over buying a brand new model. If you are still worried about the history of your purchase, you can ask the supplier who will be more than happy to give you any information you require.

Tips on getting the right stairlift for you

The choices above are the two main questions you will need to ask yourself when looking to invest in a stairlift for your home. However, there are certain things to remember in order to ensure that you get the best possible deal.

To begin with, it’s important that you buy from a reputable supplier in the industry. Although this may sound simple, stairlift companies are not all created equal and others can offer much better deals on their products. Check to see if the company in question offers comprehensive servicing and repair options so that you know you’re in good hands if you run into any problems. Some companies will also offer home visits to assess your situation and to give you even more personalised advice.

When it comes to personally picking a stairlift, it is important to spend time trying it out. Getting a feel for a piece of apparatus that you will likely use on a day-to-day basis is essential to ensure it works for you. Also, spend time considering what customisations you may require to make using your new stairlift as easy as possible and communicate this to the supplier. Swivel seats, easy-to-use controls and even the colour of the upholstery can be customised so don’t be afraid to ask about your options.

Alfix Stairlifts - champions of independent living

When it comes to investing in a chairlift, it really is down to your personal preference. It is essential that you feel both comfortable and safe whilst using your new purchase. Here at Alfix Stairlifts, we believe in offering our clients the independence they deserve and, with our extensive range of quality stairlifts on offer, we’re on hand to help.

Whether you’re looking to splash out on a brand new curved wheelchair stairlift or are simply in need of a used stairlift rental option until you’re well enough to use the stairs again, our qualified team of experts will be able to aid you in finding the perfect fit for your home.

Our services don’t stop at the purchase either, as we offer installations and a comprehensive servicing and repair for all of our stairlift products, meaning you can rest assured you’re in the best hands.

Providing a friendly local service from Cheltenham to Leicester, Alfix is ready and waiting to hear from you. If you would like to learn more about our great range of stairlift services, visit our website or get in touch with a member of our team on 0800 298 8245.