Stairlifts.

Stair lifts offer a simple and safe way of travelling from one floor to another. The investment can be for purchasing be from £1395-£4,500, which is possibly cheaper than the costs of selling/purchasing another property. Another alternative to rent a stair lift.

There is however, a wide choice of different types, of which the main two would be either ’straight stair lift’ or ‘curved stairlift’. The straight stairlift is used for stairs that are in effect; straight and therefore doing not require travelling around a ‘bend’. The curved stairlift is designed to travel around bends enabling various types of stairs to be traversed.

There are also several manufacturers of stairlifts, which offer different designs and options.

Consequently, with a wide selection of styles, designs and manufacturers, it is vital to have some basic knowledge before entering into the selection process of what you may require and from whom you should purchase it.

How to choose the right stairlift.

If you have access to the internet, you will be able to view several suppliers’ websites.

Consider whether each company offers a wide choice of products and makes, enabling you to choose the best product for your needs.

Consider whether the company offers a warranty that covers a long a period as possible, preferably 3 years for new stair lifts.

Consider whether the company operates within your locality, which is likely to provide you with a more personal service, and fast response when required.

Consider whether the company is ’small enough to care’ but big enough to deliver. Family companies often provide that added ‘personal service’.

Consider whether the company staffs has extensive experience in the ’stair lift’ business, as some salesmen may have limited experience, and recommend the wrong solution.

Consider that when choosing your stair lift, consider if the product or make of stair lift will be the right stair lift for your needs, not just now, but also in future.

Confirm that the potential supplier offers a ‘FREE’ home visit, with no strings attached and offers a good choice of stairlifts.

In preparation for your Home Visit.

Having reviewed several suppliers, and their brochures identifying possible solutions for you.

Request several testimonies, with the option to call any one of the previous customers, if necessary.

Discuss your need with any friends that may have purchased a stairlift, asking for their advice and opinion.

List any concerns or issues that worry you, for the engineer to address during his visit.

If necessary, invite a friend to be with you during the engineer’s visit, to provide support and conformation of your choice.

During the Home Visit

Let the visiting engineer know of your choice and preferences.

Explain any concerns that you may have to him. An experienced engineer will listen carefully and point to a solution.

Listen carefully to the engineer’s recommendations, which should guide you through the selection process smoothly and help with identifying the best solution for your need.

Ensure that a written quotation is provided during the survey for your choice of stair lift that also includes the warranty details.

Ensure that the quotation includes all items and work, required for completion. Be wary of ‘additions’ later such as ‘additional wiring’ etc.

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Stairlifts are moveable chairs that run on a rail that has been established along the side of a staircase. These are utilised by people who are not capable to travel up and down the stairs that are in their home. With no stairlift they would be bound to a portion of their home.

Because homes are various this demands there to be a mixture of lifts that customers can select from. Acorn Stairlifts has many of the most diverse range of models and features that can be employed on average stairs, long, twisted stairs, and stairs situated outside of their houses.

The three forms of stairlifts provided by Acorn and many other producers include; straight, curved, and outdoor. Each model is utilized in a distinct way and may utilize different materials that will function best in the surroundings it is being put in.

Straight Stairlifts

A straight stairlift is utilized on staircases that run straight up and down. They are the simplest to establish making them the most affordable. They are also one of the only models that you will have the power to purchase used because they can often be used on various staircases and can therefore be taken with you to new homes.

Curved Stairlifts

Curved stairlifts are utilized on staircases that are commonly longer and have a distinct bend or curve to them. All curved models that are bought have to be custom fitted to fit the staircase. Because of this the installment process is slightly longer and is more costly.

Outdoor Stairlifts

Outdoor stairlifts are employed on any type of stairs that are located outside of the house. They are normally small and therefore not as expensive. In order for them to weather the elements each one is constructed utilizing special components that will not wear away or fade while in the sun or rain.

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There are a number of options available to make using a stair lift easier. An occupational therapist or an impartial sales adviser will be able to specify the ones that are suitable for the users needs.

The most obvious option is to have a swivel seat stairlift. This means that you can swivel the chair when you reach the top of the stairs, so that you are facing away from the staircase when you get off. This makes it much easier and safer to get on and off the lift. The stairlift chair then acts as a barrier so that if you were to lose balance you could not fall down the stairs. A swivel seat is a standard option on most stairlifts these days, so you shouldn’t have to pay extra. If possible try and visit a showroom to compare the different stairlifts available.

Powered swivel seats are also available if you are unable to turn the seat yourself. This will add to the cost quite significantly and the quality can vary according to the manufacturer. As always seek independent advice and get prices from more than one source. If a powered swivel isn’t necessary at the moment but could be useful in the future make sure the seat can be adapted.

A recent development is the option of a two-way powered swivel. This enables the user to get off the seat in the most convenient position at the top and bottom of the stairs. This is a costly option and isn’t necessary for most people, however it can be of great use in certain circumstances. At the time of going to press only one of the manufacturers is able to provide this option.

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