A chair lift for stairs, also called a stair lift, is a simple machine, but the right one for you depends on details that are easy to overlook. Work through these points before you decide.
Start with the staircase
- Is it straight? A single straight flight takes a standard rail, which is the quickest and least costly to fit.
- How wide is it? Tight stairs need a slim model.
- What is at the top and bottom? A doorway or a hall close to the foot of the stairs may call for a folding rail.
Then think about the rider
- Height and weight. Check the weight capacity and the seat width. Heavy-duty models give more room.
- Getting on and off. Someone with stiff hips or knees may find a powered swivel seat much easier than a manual one.
- Hand strength. Controls should be easy to press and hold.
- Changing needs. Choose for how the rider may be in a few years, not only today.
Features that matter
- A seat belt that is simple to fasten
- Sensors that stop the chair if it meets an obstruction
- Battery operation, so it works in a power cut
- Call and send controls at both ends of the stairs, useful when two people share the lift
- A fold-up seat, arms and footrest
Questions to ask the installer
- Who will carry out the installation, and how long will it take?
- What does the warranty cover, and for how long?
- How quickly can you send someone if it stops working?
- What does a routine service cost?
Try before you commit
If you can, sit in the model you are considering. Comfort, the feel of the controls and the ease of the swivel are hard to judge from a brochure.
Local help
Nationwide Lifts of New York fits Indy chair lifts around Albany, Glens Falls and Poughkeepsie. We measure your stairs, talk through these points with you and give you a written quote. Call 888-323-8755 to book a free home visit.