{"id":1809,"date":"2023-08-08T15:12:12","date_gmt":"2023-08-08T14:12:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.stannah.com.mt\/?p=1809"},"modified":"2026-01-23T12:14:45","modified_gmt":"2026-01-23T12:14:45","slug":"stairlift-complete-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.stannah.ae\/en-ae\/resources\/stairlift-complete-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Stairlifts: The Complete Guide 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

Stairlifts are a cost-effective way to make your home safer and more accessible. Whether you’re planning for the future or ageing in place, a stairlift grants you effortless and uninterrupted access to your entire home, ensuring you can remain independent within the comfort of your own home.<\/span><\/p>\n

To start off, we’ll delve into the crucial 7 factors you should consider before purchasing a stairlift<\/a>. Whether it’s ensuring a tailored fit, prioritising safety features, or exploring potential cost-sharing options, we’ve got you covered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"7<\/p>\n

Now that you’ve got the basics covered, let’s dive deeper into our comprehensive stairlift guide and discover the various types of stairlifts<\/a> available, their unique features and <\/span>benefits<\/span><\/a>, and much more.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision and transform your home into a more accessible place for you and your loved ones. Let’s get started!<\/span><\/p>\n

How a Stairlift Works<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Stairlifts employ a battery-powered rack and pinion drive system that is constantly charged by a nearby outlet at the top or bottom of the stairs.<\/p>\n

This allows an electric stairlift to carry its rated load up and downstairs, while the overspeed governor and emergency braking system ensure that the stairlift will never travel faster than it is supposed to.<\/p>\n

Batteries<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The main power supplied by the electrical outlet helps the batteries<\/a> maintain a full charge, so that your stairlift is ready to go at all times.<\/p>\n

However, the stairlift won\u2019t overdraw from your electrical supply and the minimal output means there won\u2019t be any significant impact on your electric bill. You can learn more about energy efficient stairlifts from Stannah here.<\/p>\n

Power Outage<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In the event of a power outage<\/a>, the batteries will continue to operate your stairlift for approximately 20 roundtrips. In this situation, you can usually save battery power by turning off an isolator switch when you aren\u2019t using the stairlift.<\/p>\n

However, this is only recommended during an outage and it\u2019s important to leave your stairlift switched on the rest of the time.<\/p>\n

Replacing the Batteries<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Stairlift batteries last between 1 and 5 years, depending on usage and how often the stairlift is left off charge. When it\u2019s time to get them replaced, a professional technician can service your batteries for you.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, this isn\u2019t something that you can do on your own, as these industrial batteries are stored within the stairlift\u2019s carriage and require technical training to install. However, stairlift batteries are usually covered under an initial warranty or extended service plan.<\/p>\n

Weight Capacity<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Stairlift weight capacity depends on your staircase type and the model you need for your home. Straight stairlifts can carry heavier loads than curved stairlifts, which operate on a different track that has to adapt to the bends and turns of your staircase. Typically, stairlifts can support between 135 kg – 160 kg.<\/p>\n

Stairlift dimensions<\/h3>\n

The dimensions of a stairlift<\/a> are a crucial factor you should consider when choosing the right solution for your home mobility needs. These chairs are designed to fit a variety of staircase types, so dimensions may vary. Two key measurements are the seat width and the overall depth of the chair.<\/p>\n

The seat width should be wide enough to provide you with comfort as you move. Additionally, it’s essential to measure the distance from the seat to the top of the stairs once the chair is in its highest position. This ensures that the chair doesn’t interfere with space at the top.<\/p>\n

Types of Stairlifts<\/strong><\/h2>\n

There are three basic stairlift types<\/a>: straight, curved and outdoor. Each is suited to a different type of staircase and comes with a unique set of attributes and benefits. Let\u2019s take a look at the different stairlift types, so you can figure out which is right for you.<\/p>\n

Straight Stairlifts<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Straight stairlifts<\/a> are the most common type of stairlifts, as they\u2019re designed for simple, straight-run staircases. Usually, these are between 12 and 16 steps, but every house is different and a straight stairlift can be installed on a staircase that\u2019s up to 12 meters.<\/p>\n

Thankfully, most staircases are much shorter than that and straight rails can be cut down to the precise length you need, making straight stairlifts are also the most adaptable and reusable type of stairlift.<\/p>\n

Since the rail can be cut down to fit on shorter staircases, you can re-sell or donate your stairlift, or simply take it with you if you decide to move.<\/p>\n

It is important to note that this doesn\u2019t guarantee the new set of stairs will be wide enough for a stairlift and the track cannot be extended, if the new staircases is longer than the original.<\/p>\n

Curved Stairlifts<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Stairs that turn are a more complicated proposition than straight-runs. Fortunately, curved stairlifts<\/a> can handle the bends and turns of almost any staircase. Typically, there are two sorts of curved stairlift: custom-made \u201cbespoke\u201d models and modular stairlifts.<\/p>\n