Do You Need A Stairlift?
If getting up and down the stairs has become a daily struggle, and you have considered living downstairs or moving into a single floor home then a stair lift, wheelchair lift, or platform lift may be what you’re looking for. Installing a stairlift elevator is a more practical, cost-effective option and lessens changes to your lifestyle. Mobility equiptment in your residence allows you to carry on living independently while improving your quality of life at home.
Once you have decided that a stairlift is the right option for you, it is important to choose the mobility equipment that will best suit your needs.
How Much Does A Stair Lift Cost?
The answer is – It depends…… Modern stairlifts come in all shapes and sizes, so determining the cost of a chair lift for stairs is dependent on the needs of the consumer AND the staircase involved for installation purposes.
As a general rule, you should plan on budgeting somewhere between $2,000 and 5,000 for a professional straight-rail stair lift installation, and $10,000 to $13,000 for a curved-rail stair lift installations.
My Stairlift Keeps Beeping?
We often get calls from customers who’s stairlift has been beeping and they’re not sure why.
Most stairlift brands will beep to let you know that the unit is not on the charger or the batteries are going bad. The typical life of a stairlift battery is 3-5 years.
If your stairlift does start to beep, make sure:
- Check the charger and make sure the red light is on the power supply.
- The wall switch is on.
- The power has not tripped/you haven’t had a power outage.
- The stairlift is parked correctly at the top or bottom of the stairs on its charge point.
- If all these conditions are met then it may be the battery.
If you have more question or if you would like us to change out the battery’s then call us at 651-592-5959
We have one easy flat rate to change out the batteries in most stairlift brands.
More on this:
If you have had a power cut, you can temporarily stop the beeping noise by pressing the battery isolation button. The location of this will vary depending on the type of lift you have – this should be shown in your User Guide but if you’re still stuck please feel free to give us a call. You will need to turn this back on once the power to the house has returned and you wish to use the lift.
Most stairlifts take 2 x 12v batteries.
How Long Does Installation Take?
Most straight stair lift installations take only a few hours, and curved stair lifts can be installed in a day.
Can I Install It Myself?
It is possible to buy a straight stair lift an install the unit yourself. We often receive calls from people who were lured in by the low cost, only to find that the stair lift does not fit their stair case or the unit does not work correctly. Even worse, the seller offers no assistance or stops responding altogether, while the customer is stuck with a dysfunctional, dangerous piece of machinery. The State of MN requires a Permit and an Inspection of this type of mobility equipment. In order to get this you must have a Elevator Licensed with the state of MN.
Many manufacturers may also void your warranty if you do not have it installed by an authorized dealer/ licensed professional.
What Are The Best Stairlift Brands?
Check here for the best stairlift consumer reports with stairlift reviews review on the web.
What Do I Need To Get Ready For Install?
You may need to hire an electrician to ensure power is available within 10 feet.
Can I Buy A Stair Lift If My Stairs Have Curves Or Turns?
Yes, there are specific stairway lift models that are designed to fit staircases that have curves, turns, or intermediate landings. These types of chairlift models have rails that are custom designed to fit the exact design of your own staircase.
How Much Space Is Needed?
The size of the stair lift will vary from brand to brand. A general rule is that the stairway needs to be at least 30″ wide, and there must be at least 24″ of landing space at the base of the stairs.
How Does My Stairlift Battery Charge?
The stairlift recharges when the chair is in the parked position at the top or bottom of the rail.
How Long Will My Stairlift Battery Last?
Depending on usage, the stairlift battery will last 3-5 years. The remote control batteries should be replaced annually.
How Often Does My Stairlift Need Servicing?
Your stairlift needs servicing every 6-12 months depending on the stairlift make and model. This will be detailed in your stairlift manual.
What To Do In A Power Outage?
First, don’t worry! Your stairlift is battery powered and will continue to work during power outages. Below are a few tips to help you use your lift until you get the power back.
During a power outage, your battery-powered stairlift will continue to work and will typically have enough power to get up and down stairs between 10 and 20 times. This number will vary depending on the length of the ride, the condition of the batteries and the weight of the user.
If the batteries die during use, turn the lift off and then back on using the switch on your armrest. This will allow you to travel a short distance downstairs. Repeat this process until you reach the bottom.
Troubleshooting Beeping?
If the power goes out the stairlift will start to beep, indicating that it is no longer charging. You can temporarily stop the beeping by turning off the Battery Isolation Switch on the stairlift – it’s the large white switch below the seat. If your stairlift is the type with two tubular rails that go around corners, you have a curved stairlift and the switch will be on the front of the stairlift. If it’s straight, it’ll be on the back side.
ONLY TURN OFF THIS SWITCH IF YOU CAN REACH IT SAFELY!
Remember to turn the switch back on when you want to use the stairlift.
What Guarantee Or Warranties Do I Get With My Stairlift?
Reconditioned /Used Install Warranty:
- 3-year period on the drive train
- 1-year period on all component parts of the lift
- Including, complimentary service calls during your 1st year with your new product
New Stair Lift Install Warranty:
- 3-year period on the drive train
- 2-year period on all component parts of the lift
What Are The Costs For Service?
- $150.00 Service Call
- $75.00 Per Hour/Per Tech
- Parts will be in additional cost of outside of the initial stairway warranty or extended warranty
- Mileage charges round trip at the federal rate outside 50 mile radius of the Minnesota Great State Fair
Do You Have A Maintenance Plan?
-
Yes, We do!
Yes, We also do safety tests once a year!
Annual maintenance and Safety Test
Performance Plus Plan— $195
- Covers: Inspection and operation of Stairlift
- Charger and Batteries
- Rail Mounts,
- Safety Switches
- Clean Charge Contacts
- Lubricated Rails
- Motors
- Circuit Boards
- Foot rest Cables
- $150 service charge waived on future service calls for one year from the date of the annual maintenance
- Does not include labor for additional necessary repairs
- Parts will be an additional cost if outside of the initials Stairlift warranty
- Price covers 1 hour of labor in addition to the test.
- Does not cover self-made issues. The service rate would apply for maintence caused by user misuse or damage.
My stairlift was fitted by another company. Do you look after maintenance on these lifts?
Yes! In fact we receive numerous calls of this nature from clients who are not satisfied with their original stairlift installer company or they are unable to get support after installation. Our customers are satisfied with our professional, fast response, and followup and prefer to Starlift to larger mobiliy chain companies as we are a local family run business.
Contact us at 651-592-5959 for further details.
- Covers: Inspection and operation of Stairlift
Are Stair- Lifts Safe?
Stairlifts are built for safety! And, at StarLift, we use top-quality equipment and technology. We install your equipment safely and carefully while complying with all current rules and codes established by the ASME, OSHA, and the BBB. Check out Our Google 5-Star Rating! You’ll feel safer in your home with a stairlift when you get it installed by our experienced licensed technicians.
What Safety Features Are Included?
Our stair lifts include:
- A footrest safety sensor that gently stops the lift if it strikes anything in the stairway
- A swivel safety switch to ensure the seat is in a safe position before lifting
- A waist safety belt attached to seat to secure occupant in chair
- Cable tension safeguards to ensure the lift will stop in case of emergency
- Limit switches that shut the stairlift off at the top and bottom of stair automatically
- Pressure controls to make sure the lift stops moving when you need it to
Can I Remove The Stair Lift When I Sell My Home Or No Longer Need It?
Some people worry that a stairlift will make their home less attractive to buyers. If you’re worried about this, you can get the stairlift removed. When done correctly, removing the stair lift will not cause damage to your home. Your floors can be patched and returned to their original condition. Call Star Lift 651-592-5959 if you need your lift professionally removed.
What Is A Platform Lift?
Wheelchair lifts and platform lifts are simple elevators designed for wheelchair users and scooter users. When installed inside or outside your home, they will lift you and your mobility equipment up or down, safely and easily.
What Is A Home Elevator?
Home elevators are small elevators designed for residential use. They are designed to fit in your home while still being sturdy and strong enough to support you and your mobility equipment. They’re available by a variety of brands in different designs to suit the look of your home.
Are Stair Lifts, Platform Lifts, And Home Elevators Difficult To Install?
No—our expert technicians can install your new equipment efficiently, saving you time and hassle, and rest assured we don’t cut corners when it comes to safety and security.
Are There Cost Savings Available For Disabled Veterans?
Yes—In most cases, the Department of Veterans Affairs gives cash grants to veterans for home mobility devices. You can look at these 3 programs for details: the Home Improvements and Structural Alterations grant (HISA), the Specially Adapted Housing grant (SAH) and the Special Home Adaptation grant (SHA). Qualified vets can get both a HISA grant and an SAH or SHA grant.
To get these grants, apply using VA form 26-4555 and send it to your VA regional office. For more information, call 1-800-827-1000.
Starlift is proudly partnered with the DAV and accepts donations for Veterans! We offer a Veteran discount on used/refurbished mobility equipment installs through our Veteran’s program. Call 651-592-5959
Can A Stair Lift Be Removed?
Yes, stair lifts can be uninstalled within a couple of hours or less. Depending on the make and the age we may buy it or accept it as a donation. We buy stairlifts and accept donations for Veterans! Call us for more details 651-592-5959
Do You Offer Financing?
Yes, we have many options. Visit our Financing page or get in contact with us today to learn about our financial options.
Does Your Company Rent Stairlifts?
Yes, we offer a stairlift rent and lease program.
Call for additional information.
Are Stair Lifts Taxes Deductible?
If the home modification does not increase your property value, you can deduct the whole cost as a medical expense. Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Your stair lift may actually qualify for tax deductions. … The IRS also permits those with disabilities to claim some of these expenses as a tax deduction.
Are Stair Lifts Covered By Health Insurance?
Unfortunately, Medicare, which is insurance that provided by the federal government for elder people, does not cover stair chair lifts. A stair chair lift is classified as a “home modification” by Medicare instead of “durable medical equipment”.
What Is The Weight Limit For A Stair Lift?
A significant proportion of overweight people also suffer with vertigo which puts them at risk on long flights of stairs. The highest capacity Stair lifts have a maximum weight limit of 500lbs.
How Does A Stair Lift Work?
Most chairlifts are made up of three main components: a rail, a carriage and a seat. The carriage of the stair lift contains the motor which powers the lift up and down the rail or track. The rail is normally made of Aluminum; this fits directly to the treads of the stairs (not the wall), and the stair lift seat simply sits on top of the carriage and has the controls in the arms to send the stair lift up or down. Starlift can provide two remote controls allowing multiple users to direct the lift both up and down the stairs for a small additional charge.
What If It Storms And The Power Goes Out, (This Is Minnesota…) Will The Lift Still Work
Yes, because the lifts are all battery operated. The chairlift will be able to provide you with ample trips up/down the stairs after the power goes out.
Does Someone Need To Come Out And Measure My Stairs?
Yes! All stairlift companies should measure your stairs and take your particular environment, mobility needs and capabilties into consideration. An assessment must be done to make sure that a stairlift will fit your staircase, meet your needs and is safe for you to use. This assessment is no-obligation and free of charge, and should take no longer than an hour, depending on the staircase.
What Is The Stair Lift Attached To When Installed? Will It Ruin Or Damage The Walls?
A common misconception about stair lifts is that they are attached to the walls. However, when installed they are actually attached to the treads of the stairs, not the wall. (See Below). There are no structural changes are needed for a stair lift to be installed in your home.
How Much Does A Stairlift Cost To Run?
Stairlifts are very economical and environmentally friendly. A stairlift only cost a few dollars a year to run.
Will There Be Room For Family And Friends To Use The Stairs After My Lift Is Installed?
When not in use, the stairlift’s arms, seat, and footrest can all be folded up, so that anyone can use the steps.
Can A Stair Lift Be Installed Outside And If So, Will It Be Protected?
Yes, there are access lift stair-lift models that can be built on a straight or curved outdoor staircase. Outdoor stair lift models are just like indoor models. The only difference is that the outdoor models are built to withstand the outdoor elements, even in Minnesota. There is also a cover that comes with the lift to protect it when it is not in use.
What Are The Electrical Requirements?
A common household 120-volt outlet is all that is needed.
How Noisy Are Stair Lifts?
Battery (DC) powered stair lifts run off around 24 volts powering an electric motor, which makes them quiet and energy efficient in use. The loudest noise you will hear from your stair lift is a beep to let you know that it is about to start its journey up or down your stairs!
How Far Does The Rail Stick Out Past The Bottom Stair?
The rail of a straight stair lift sticks out approximately 16 inches and a curved rail will stick out approximately 20 inches. This is because the track has to go all the way to the floor for a safe and easy exit. If this is an issue for your home, a manual or power folding track can be added.
Do I Need To Plug In And Charge My Stairlift?
The stairlift includes a transformer that is permanently plugged into a standard 120 volt power-point. The power-point can be either at the top or bottom of the stairs. When the stairlift is parked, the batteries are automatically recharged.
Can More Than One Person Ride On The Stairlift At A Time?
Safety certification for these chairlifts is based on single passenger per ride only.
The chairlifts company’s have very strong recommendations regarding use of chairlifts. In the interest of safety for you, your family and your friends, we fully support these recommendations:
Only adults who are familiar with the operation of the chairlifts (having read the user manual or been shown by an experienced user) should use the chairlifts.
Under-aged and mentally disadvantaged persons may only use the stairlift under supervision.
Never exceed the maximum permissible weight for your specific model.
The stairlift is exclusively intended for the transportation of one person per journey.
Never use the stairlift for transporting animals or goods.
Why Are There So Many Names For A Stairlift , Stair Lift, Chair Lift?
We most commonly call a seat that travels up and down a stairway on a rail a stairlift (or stair lift, with a space). In some countries, they are often called chairlifts (or chair lifts). We’ve even seen them called chair stair lifts! Yes, they are all the same thing. The very same model from a manufacturer is sometimes labelled differently to suit the local usage.
Stairlifts are known variously as stair lifts, stair-lifts, chair lifts, stair gliders and by other names. This type of chair lift should not be confused with the chairlift used by Minnesota skiers. The term stair climber can refer either to stair lifts, or more commonly to the exercise equipment by the same name.
Hopefully, if you’re reading this question, you’ve searched on one of these common terms and found us.
What Are The Different Types Of Stairlifts?
Left to Right:
Chair Straight Rail Stair Lift | Sit/Stand Stairlift | Perch/Stand Stairlift | Outdoor Stairlift | Curved Rail Stairlift
Stair lifts mobility equipment comes in different models to fit many stair formations. Each person must consider his or her own architectural space, lifestyle, and other factors when trying to decide which type of access lift is right for him or her.
Straight Stair Lift
Straight stair lifts are designed to go up and down straight staircases only. Straight lifts are trimmed to fit the staircase, so they can match the exact length of the stairs where installation is taking place.
Straight chair stair lifts are not custom made but are instead mass-produced. They’re also easy to ship and install. They cannot, however, accommodate landings, curves or turns—but being modular and easy to put in place makes them the most economical variety of lift chairs.
Curved Stair Lift
Curved staircases, stairs with landings, and any staircase that turns or varies from straight all require a custom-made unit to fit that particular staircase. Stairlift companies use a variety of special tools and methods to determine the exact curvature of the stairway, and then install the railing to fit. Each chairlift unit requires a great deal of planning and design to ensure that the home lift will fit the particular staircase where it is being installed.
Standing Stair Lifts
A standing stair lift, also known as a “perch lift,” is very much like a chair lift, except that it provides a smaller platform that mostly only allows the passenger to stand as they move up and down the stairs. They’re useful in a variety of different settings:
- Narrow Stairs: If a set of stairs is especially narrow, it may not be able to accommodate a seated stair lift. In this case, a standing stair lift can usually work provided that there is enough headroom for the user to stand erect on the platform.
- Health Conditions: Some health conditions make it difficult for people to bend their knees. Standing stair lifts make it possible to go up and down stairs without bending the knees and without sitting down.
- Conditions: Some people feel more comfortable standing than sitting, and therefore prefer standing stair lifts.
Perch lifts function in much the same ways as standard stair lifts, with the same features. Perch lifts have arm rests for balance and comfort, and braking mechanisms that can prevent the access lift from running into someone or something on the stairs.
A Stair lift is a moving mobility stair chair or platform lift for stairway access to travel to different levels of a home and is sometimes called an automatic chair, automatic stair lift, stair-lift, chair lift, curved rail stairlift, disabled lift, elderly lift, handicap lift, home stair lift, inclinator, outdoor stairlift lift, perch stairlift, ramp lift, seat lift, stair chair, stair elevator, stair glide, stairlift, stair rider, stair stepper, stair climber, stair elevator, staircase lift, stairway chair lift, stairway lift, stair chair, stair climber, stair elevator, stair glider, stair glide, staircase chair lift, stairlift, stairs chair lift, stairway chair lift, standing lift, straight rail stairlift, super glide and wheelchair lift.
Most carriages have a chair seat with folding arms and a folding footrest for space saving purposes; so that others in the household can easily use the stairs as normal. Other than the characteristic interior straight rail stairlift some special stairlift models have a stand-on platform, a multiple use sit or stand stairlift, a ‘stand stairlift’ or a “perching” seat stairlift, also known as a “perch” seat stairlift, outdoor stairlift and curved rail stairlift for curved staircases.
What Are The Difference Between A Stair Lift And A Wheelchair Lift?
How Do You Get Off The Lift Safely?
A safe entry and exit are at the top of our priorities for every customer. The seat at the top will swivel onto the landing, or an optional rail overrun can be used to get on and off safely. At the bottom landing, the chair is always on the floor-level for a safe exit and entry.
Power Swivel being used at top landing of staircase
Rail Overrun at top landing of the staircase
If I Have A Narrow Staircase, Will The Lift Still Fit?
Yes, in almost all cases the lift will fit. Our certified stairlift experts can help you determine if there is an issue at all with the width of the staircase.
A Star Lift technician installing a stair lift at a home in Mendota Heights, MN
What Is The Longevity And Maintenance?
Stair lifts are used on a daily basis, and like any expensive piece of machinery, may eventually begin to wear out. Taking care of your assistive technology may therefore involve performing some maintenance. If you’re new to lift chair ownership and are not sure how to take care of your machine, you can find a lot of this information in your owner’s manual. The owner’s manual will tell you how to clean your lift, what tools can be used for cleaning, how to perform small maintenance tasks yourself, and what problems must be addressed by a professional with Stairlift repair services. Here’s a sampling of the types of DIY maintenance you might be in for if you install a stair lift in your home.
Clean the Chair with a Rag
Stairlift owners should use a dry microfiber cloth to clean the seat and controls.
Tune-Ups
Like any other expensive piece of equipment, stair lifts need regular tune-ups in order to keep functioning properly. Have a stair lift tech come to your home on a regular basis, even if you’re not experiencing problems with the unit.
Tighten Nuts and Bolts
Check your chair periodically for loose screws, nuts and bolts. Make adjustments as necessary, but be careful not to over-tighten. Over tightening can lead to stripped screws.
Clean the Rails
The rails on your stair lift help the chair move up and down, and keep the machine functioning properly. If the rail becomes dirty, cleaning can become difficult. Use the rag to wipe off any dirt from the rail. Push a small corner of the rag into the rail and then run the rag up and down the rail with a screw driver to help.
In some cases, your chair’s rail may benefit from a light spray of lubricant. Use only lubricants that are specifically mentioned in your owner’s manual. Failure to follow the advice and suggestions in the manual can cause the warranty to be voided.
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