Our Frequently Asked Questions

Stairlift controls are commonly found on one of the armrests. These usually comprise two buttons, for up or down, though a toggle switch is usually provided to help users who may have arthritic issues.

Both types of control require “constant pressure”, granting the user complete control of their stairlift. At the end of the journey, the stairlift will stop automatically, usually with an audible noise upon stopping as a safety feature.

Most modern stairlifts run on D.C. power, which means that if the mains power supply fails then batteries will power the machine for up to eight trips and normally this is sufficient to last users until the power is restored.

Power or battery packs are sometimes housed within the stairlift or wall-mounted nearby. With the modern design of our easy-to-use stairlifts, the pack will recharge either at the top or the bottom, similar to the principle of cordless telephones.

Most stairlifts are restricted to loads of 18 to 21 stone, but there are various heavy-duty stairlift options, ranging up to a maximum weight of 28 stone. Should the installation require a hinged track, the safe working load is variable depending on the supplier.

With most installations, it is standard practice to be provided with two call-send devices. These are either configured as wall-mounted controls or wireless handheld remote controls. Usually, one is located at the top and the other at the bottom of the stairs.

Stairlifts are designed for ease of use for a wide variety of users, if you find it difficult to operate a manual swivel seat; you should consider the option of a powered motorised swivel.

Yes, all stairlifts fold flat against the wall when not in use. Also, when the stairlift is not in use, it will be either at the top or bottom of the stairs in the ‘parked’ position, unless you have requested your curved rail stairlift to park on the bend. Only the track, at low level, would be present on the stairs, leaving the stairs virtually free from obstructions.

Normally, if you purchase a straight stairlift, it can be fitted within 3 to 7 days. Some companies offer faster stairlift installations in urgent cases. However, should you require a curved rail stairlift, we can help you to find a suitable supplier and installer.

Stairlift tracks are no longer fitted to the wall, but directly onto the stairs through the floor covering of the stairs via shoes or cleats. You will have approximately 4 to 5 cleats per straight staircase.

Normally, the engineer will try to conceal the wiring wherever possible and run to the nearest available plug point similar to a typical telephone or cable TV installation.

Connection is normally to the nearest 13amp socket. If there is not one in the vicinity of the staircase, installers may request that you arrange for the installation of one.

Any form of obstruction at the foot of the stairs will almost certainly need to be removed. Most stairlifts require a space of approximately 24 inches unless you require a bottom over-run or parking bend. This should be determined during your free stairlift survey.

This is quite a common scenario which is simple to overcome with the use of a hinged track. A hinged track comes in two forms, manual or powered. We will advise on the best option for each property, depending on the number of users and their ability.

This would normally be discussed at the free stairlift survey stage. However, if you only have one entrance to your property, the stairlift surveyor may refuse to fit a stairlift because of the limited emergency access should any problems arise in the future.