It isn’t
easy to accept that you have some mobility issues that are impacting your daily
life. Simple tasks like going up and down the stairs, popping to the shops and
having a shower can seem arduous if you suffer from any joint and tissue
related conditions. Yet, luckily, technology is fast evolving - a wealth of
mobility aids are becoming more and more available to the mass market, helping
those in need to live a more fulfilling life.
Yet, it
isn’t surprising that some of these options can cost a pretty penny, from the
installation to maintenance costs, it is likely that you don’t want your
mobility aid to add stress to your life rather than help it. However, many
reputable companies will offer affordable options as well as luxury items. And,
though price and quality does go hand in hand, you can be assured that just
because you go for a cheaper option doesn’t necessarily mean that it will fall
apart after one use, or incur greater costs down the line.
With this in
mind, we have collated together a guide to the ongoing costs of maintaining and
looking after a straight stairlift. From the initial installation to repair
costs, we will identify approximately how much you should expect to pay for
these services. Yet, we should point out, as a reputable stairlift company
ourselves, that prices will vary from company to company and can be subject to
change due to yearly inflation.
A Brief Breakdown of Straight Stairlift Costs
A straight stairlift
is a stairlift that can only travel
in straight lines, unlike curved stairlifts that can turn corners and go around
bends. Therefore, if your home has a curved staircase, then it is highly
recommended that you seek to have a curved stairlift rather than a straight
stairlift.
Though they
serve two different purposes, one of the great things about straight stairlifts
is that they are considerably cheaper than a curved stairlift, as well as being
quicker to create and install. This is because curved stairlifts often have to
be made bespoke, which incurs a higher price tag.
There are a
variety of costs to consider before you choose to have a stairlift. This can
include the initial design and extras, installation, repair and maintenance.
For example, you may not be fussed about different upholstery fabrics, yet you
may need to consider how you control the stairlift as there are a range of
options like joystick controls, remote controls, power swivelling and manual
swivelling. It is roughly estimated that, without the customisable extras, a
straight stairlift could cost around £2000.
Yet, we
recommend you make your comfort a priority, and choosing a stairlift that will
last for years. Plus, you may also, unfortunately, need to take into account
that your mobility could worsen as you age. So, although the initial cost could
be higher by adding these extras, they could save you extra money in the long
run.
Straight Stairlift Maintenance and Common
Issues
Though
stairlifts are well designed, and not intending to fall apart after a few uses
- it is likely that you may experience some common stairlift problems whilst
you have it. As with most mechanics, keeping your stairlift well maintained
will lessen the chance of any issues from arising.
How does a straight stairlift work?
One of the
great things about straight stairlifts is that they are easy to operate, yet
they can make a life-changing difference to its owner. The tracks of the
straight stairlifts are fitted to the stairs, and with the simple push of a
button the stairlift can smoothly transition between the upper and lower floors
of your home. For optimum safety, stairlifts are attached with a seatbelt to
ensure a safe ride.
Stairlift Faults
Below we
have outlined some common stairlift faults - and when you should call your
local stairlift repair company.
Diagnostics Fault -
One of the reasons why stairlifts are
incredibly safe mechanics is that they have a diagnostics screen that will
alert you if a fault is detected. Plus, it will also tell you the error code -
which you can easily learn about in your stairlift manual. This means that when
you contact your stairlift repair company that you can easily communicate with
them as to what the fault is.
Power Supply -
A common issue is that the power
supply is unplugged, and whilst this may not be the most pressing issue, it can
cause a mixture of frustration and anxiety for its users. Locate the key switch
under the stairlift carriage and see if it is turned properly and into the
correct position.
Beeping Stairlift -
It may at first seem concerned that
your stairlift is making weird beeping noises. But that doesn't necessarily
mean that it needs a costly repair. Infact, the issue could be really simple
like uncharged batteries or that your home power supply has tripped. Yet, if
you are still concerned then it is wise to always double check and call your
local branch.
Automatic Swivel Doesn’t Work -
If you are finding that your
automatic swivel doesn’t work, use the manual swivel levers instead, then call
your local branch.
Many of
these issues above can be solved by troubleshooting and dealing with the
problem yourself - yet if you find that you are unable to, then it is best to
call the supplier of your stairlift or your local stairlift branch to diagnose
or repair this for you. Though we cannot give you a specific price as to how
much a repair will cost, it is best that you don’t stall and wait around for
the cheapest option. Dealing with the problem quickly will not only give you
peace of mind, but it will also be more cost-effective as it will prevent any
further damage from incurring.
Stairlift Maintenance
We recommend
getting your stairlift an annual service, which will include maintenance checks
to make sure that your stairlift is working perfectly. Not only will this
troubleshoot any potential issues but it will also assure you that a yearly
check-up is in place.
Here at
Alfix Stairlifts, we pride ourselves on offering an excellent range of
warranties alongside our high-quality stairlifts, meaning that any issues that
arise and services within the first few years won’t cost you a penny.
Yet, there
are a range of ways that you can keep your stairlift in good nick, below we
have collated together some helpful tips so your stairlift can pass its annual
service with flying colours.
● Don’t unplug your stairlift as this
could damage the battery
● Keep the stairlift track free from
any clutter or debris
● Keep your stairlift recharged by
hopping on or off when it is at the very end of the track
● Don’t exceed the maximum weight
● Keep your stairlift track clean and
lubricated every few months with a damp cloth and petroleum jelly - but don’t
use cleaning products.
● Use a damp cloth to clean the seat
chair and petroleum jelly to lubricate the swivel features
● If you have an outdoor stairlift,
make sure that it is covered to protect it from bad weather.
Is Stairchair Rental or Used Stairlifts more
cost-effective?
You may be
concerned about how much the initial cost of a stairlift is, plus the cost of
repairs and maintenance chairs - so you may be looking for more affordable
options like stairlift rental or reconditioned stairlifts. The great thing
about both of these options is that they are available in straight stairlifts
rather than curved.
Stairchair
rental is a great option if you are going on holiday or if you are housing
someone with a mobility aid for the time being. However, they may not be a
viable option for long term use. Simply because a company may not offer
stairchair rental for that long of a time and it may be more cost effective to
buy one outright.
Reconditioned
and second-hand stairlifts are a great option for those who are looking to save
a few pennies. Created from high-quality materials and parts and functioning as
if it was brand new, it is easy to mistake a reconditioned stairlift for a
brand new contraption. Though it may initially save you plenty of pennies, it
could rack up more potential repair and servicing costs. Having a brand new
stairlift will not only give you peace of mind, but it can also offer a longer
warranty.
Find your stair elevator with Alfix Stairlifts
Here at
Alfix Stairlifts, we offer a wide range of stunning functional stairlifts that
can be easily incorporated into any style of home. From curved stairlifts to
straight stairlifts and stairlift rental, our high-quality range comes with
plenty of customisable extras. No matter your style or size of the staircase,
our expert engineers are not only on hand to measure and fit your stairlifts,
but we also offer a free initial home visit.
Servicing homes from Leamington Spa to
Gloucester and Oxford, our team can be on call for emergency repairs as well as
annual services. So you can have peace of mind that no matter the issue, our
team can help. To find out more about us, or to speak with one of our trusted team,
simply contact us today.
