Steps to a reliable stairlift
WHATEVER you’re buying, from a washing machine to a new car, there will always be certain features that are ‘musts’ for you.
But how do you know what to look for when buying a stairlift? These are a few pointers that might help.
Firstly, it’s crucial that your stairlift has safety sensors on the footrest and carriage, which will detect any obstruction left on the stairs and cut off power until it is removed.
A swivel seat which locks into position makes it much easier to get in and out of the stairlift, especially at the top of the stairs where it acts as a safety barrier. There are paddles at the side of the seat to make it swivel.
A smooth ride, with no sudden jolts, is better for you and your stairlift. And rechargeable batteries mean you’ll never be left stranded in the event of a power cut.
These batteries are continuously topped up from the mains when the stairlift is ‘parked’ at its charging station at the top or bottom of the stairs.
Intuitive and ergonomic controls make a stairlift simple to use. Those models that have paddles on both arms of the carriage are often easiest for people with arthritis to operate.
And, just like a car, there should be a strong and reliable safety belt fitted as standard.
A clear and easy digital display helps you diagnose any faults, which can usually be rectified by consulting the manual or calling a 365-days-a-year helpline.
Remote controls kept at the top
and bottom of the stairs allow you to summon the stairlift if it isn’t where you need it to be.
A slim foldaway design makes it easier for other people to use the stairs in the regular way. The seat, arms and footrest should fold up neatly — a process that can be automated at the push of a button, if you prefer it.
A good stairlift with these features should be reliable, safe, inconspicuous, easy to use and cost-effective.
And it is also important to check you will get good aftercare, with a service engineer on call whenever you may need one.