Which Type of Stair Lift ?
The evaluation of your home is the first step in finding out if a stair lift is the right choice for you or a loved one. A local stair lift consultant will be able to offer you an insight on stair lift type, use, needs, and positioning. An evaluation of the home is needed to enable accurate stair case measurements and provide a suitable stair lift. An evaluation of your home typically takes 30-45 minutes.
A stair lift aurveyor will verify with you the following requirements and measurements at your home evaluation:
- Rise and Tread - Number of risers and the height of each measured from tread nose down to next tread. Depth of tread measured horizontally from step nose to step nose.
- Stair Lift Position - Either Left or Right side of the stair case.
- Length of staircase - Known as the A to B measurement. This is the measurement length along the nosings from the upper to the lower landing.
- Width of staircase - To know which stairlift types will fit on the stairs with enough room to still make the stairs functional for other users.
- Outlet Requirements - A standard electrical outlet must be within the area of the staircase to enable the operation of the stair lift.
- User Requirements - Options needed specific to the users' needs.
- Curved or Straight - If your stairs are curved you may need to think about a curved stairlift, which can also be an extra cost on top.
Will my stair lift operate if the power goes out? An A/C operated unit will not operate after the power of the house is terminated. A BOS (Battery Operated System) will work for a limited time.
How much space does a stair lift use? When not in use, the lift can be folded up, maximizing space on the staircase for others. It takes up about 14" when folded and typically opens to about 25".
Can a stair lift handle any stair lift configuration? Stair lifts can be configured to handle any staircase. Most staircases are either straight, have a middle landing, or are curved/spiral. In some cases, a customer who has a middle landing can put 2 stair lifts in, one on the first set of steps and the other on the second set.
What is the difference between A/C and BOS? What are the pros and cons? An A/C unit is operated from the standard household outlet. If the electricity goes out, the stair lift will not operate. There are no ongoing costs to support the operation of this unit like there are with the BOS.
A BOS (Battery Operated System) is operated by standard 12V batteries. The BOS will operate if there is an electrical power failure for as long as the batteries last (typically 10 trips). Batteries for these lifts need to be changed annually. Typical cost for 12V batteries are $50-$75. 12V batteries are similar to those that operate children's Barbie or play cars driven on driveways.
Are stair lifts easy to care for? Yes. Stair lifts are designed to last for many years. Most stair lifts come with a manufacturer's warranty.
Can a stair lift accommodate any user weight? Most stair lifts handle up to a 300 lb capacity. Some manufacturers offer stair lifts up to 375 lb capacity.
Do I need to do anything special to prepare the home for a stair lift? Not really, unless you don't have an electrical outlet to support the operation of the stair lift. In this case, you would need an electrician to install an outlet before the stair lift is installed. In some cases, the stair rail might need to be removed if it obstructs the operation of the stair lift.
How is the stair lift secured to the home? The stair lift is bolted down directly into the staircase. It requires rail brackets about every 3-4 ft.
Will a stair lift work for someone who also uses a wheelchair? Stair lifts can be useful even for someone who has limited mobility. Convenience features built into some models include folding arms that push up and out of the way, adjustable seat heights, and soft, padded seats.
How will the stair lift look in my home? You can typically choose from a wide variety of colors and fabrics. Upholstery options include easy-to-care for vinyl and fabric. Chair and track colors can be chosen to blend with most home décors.
What about safety features? Key safety features on most stair lifts include a seat belt, obstruction sensors that will stop the lift should something block its path, a swivel seat lock that holds the unit in place while you get on or off. Constant pressure controls ensure the lift will stop if you release your finger from the controls.
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