Stairlift Aftercare
A guide to aftersales care and looking after your stairlift.
Purchasing a stairlift for your home can provide you with many benefits, including increased mobility and independence. To ensure that you continue to enjoy these benefits for years to come, it is crucial to provide your stairlift with the proper aftercare and maintenance.
Can I get stairlift insurance?
Stairlifts usually come with a standard 2-year warranty, which covers the cost of parts and labor, even for reconditioned or straight and curved models, giving you peace of mind in case of any issues. Handicare also provides an extended warranty if required, but neither of these warranties is covered by insurance. However, like many household items, you can opt to purchase insurance for your curved or straight stairlift for added protection against damage or repairs. If you are considering stairlift insurance, it is important to consider the monthly costs and any excess charges. There are various policies available, so select the one that provides the right level of coverage, from accidental damage to electrical breakdown, according to your needs.
Common problems with stairlifts
Installing a stairlift can bring about a significant change in your life, granting you independence to move around your home with ease. However, like any other machine, your stairlift may encounter problems that could disrupt your daily routine. By regularly inspecting your stairlift, you can identify when it needs servicing, and many problems can be resolved with basic maintenance or by seeking assistance from Handicare specialists.
When you travel from one end of the staircase to the other, the swivel seat should return to its original position, usually at the bottom of the stairs. If the seat fails to do so, it could be a sign of broken springs in the chair, and an engineer should be contacted immediately. If your stairlift is still under warranty, Handicare will cover the cost of this repair. Our skilled engineers aim to fix the issue quickly and efficiently, with minimal disruption to your day and your home.
My stairlift has stopped working, what do I do?
If your stairlift has stopped working, it may not be a serious issue and could be resolved by checking the power switch to ensure that it is turned on and receiving power. Other common reasons for problems with stairlifts include incorrect key position, tripped spur connection, or a blown fuse. While these issues can be easily fixed at home, it’s always best to contact your manufacturer or a local stairlift company if you’re unsure how to handle them on your own.
Stairlift Upkeep
Here are some recommended ways to maintain your stairlift:
- Clean your stairlift regularly with a damp cloth or duster.
- Discourage your pets from sitting on the stairlift to avoid potential damage or wear and tear.
- Ensure that the rail is clear of any obstacles to prevent any accidents or damage to the stairlift.
- Keep the track lubricated using Vaseline or a similar product to ensure smooth operation.
- Do not allow children to use your stairlift for safety reasons.
Performing regular maintenance on your stairlift can prevent several issues. Simple upkeep tasks like keeping the tracks free of dust can prevent obstructions, allowing for a seamless ride. Additionally, We suggest an annual service check to ensure that your stairlift is in excellent working condition, reducing the likelihood of future complications.
How long do stairlift batteries last?
The typical lifespan of your stairlift batteries is 3-5 years, which may vary based on the frequency of use and whether the batteries are left uncharged for extended periods. Since the batteries consume minimal power per trip, the daily running cost is low, and a replacement battery costs around £50. To learn more about the functioning of stairlifts, refer to the dedicated guide.
Your stairlift batteries recharge when placed at the designated charging points. While curved stairlifts generally have charging points at the top and bottom of the stairs, some models can charge whatever they are positioned. Nevertheless, your stairlift will issue audio and visual alerts if not placed in the correct position.
Will my stairlift work in a power cut?
In the event of a power outage, your stairlift can operate for up to seven round trips, allowing you to move around your home. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep the stairlift’s power supply on all the time to ensure adequate power. If the batteries are left to drain completely, they may need to be replaced.
When buying a stairlift, you may have various queries. For further assistance and guidance, visit the stairlift tips and advice page, which contains a wealth of information to address your concerns, including details on repairs and maintenance.