Many households have decks or patio areas that are accessible by a stair case located outdoors. For those with conditions that affect their mobility, an outdoor stair case can present a daunting challenge. Luckily, there are many options available for those that need an outdoor stair lift.
All stair lifts are composed of four basic components; the track, the drive train, the chassis, and the seat. The drive train is located inside of the chassis and consists of the gears or pulleys that propel the chassis and seat up and down the track. The drive train can be either rack and pinion or cable driven. Rack and pinion systems utilize gears and a toothed rail along the track. Cable driven systems use a high strength aluminum cable that is wound around a pulley inside of the chassis.
The stair lift track is the portion that is actually mounted to the stairs and supports the weight of the chassis, seat, and rider. Depending on the type of stair lift, the track also houses the toothed gears for rack and pinion lifts and the high strength cable for the cable driven lifts.
The chassis contains the electric motor that moves the lift up the rail. The seat is mounted on top of the chassis enclosure and usually folds up while not in use.
There are a few factors to consider when installing a stair lift on an existing stair case. Special attention must be paid to the material that the steps are constructed from. Concrete steps will require different types of fasteners than wooden steps. Also, the length of the stair case must be measured in order to obtain an accurate price quote from a distributor. Each stair lift track is custom cut to the home owner’s specifications and the length will affect the final price of the stair lift.
For a straight stair case, a stair lift is a safe and economical solution but for outdoor use the chassis and track of the stair lift must be sealed to protect against the elements. Also, the seat must be of a marine grade vinyl or similar material to withstand sunlight and moisture. Most outdoor models also include a cover for the seat so that it is protected when not in use.
วันจันทร์ที่ 27 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Outdoor Stair Lifts
Stair Lifts and Their Importance
Moving up and down the stairs is a difficult task for people who have problems with mobility. A stair lift makes life easier for them and provides independence of movement.
A chair lift is a chair that is attached to a track bolted down to a staircase. This lift can be used to carry a person up and down the stairs with just the push of a button. Well! It can also be used for other purposes, like carrying groceries, luggage, laundry and anything else.
Chair lifts also have swivel seats that turn away from the staircase and come with remote controls that signal the lift to come to a particular floor. So as not to occupy too much space, they also have a folding track at the lower landing area. They can be fixed on any side of the staircase. This installation needs to be done by a professional.
There are several types of stair lifts available, of various shapes and sizes.
Chair lifts are better now than what we used to get earlier. They are less noisy and entail no risk of malfunctioning. A small joystick is used to operate them. They come with a remote control to enable operation from either the top or bottom of the stairs.
The stair lifts have a comfortable seat and a footrest. The start and stop movements are very smooth. The swivel seat helps the person using the stair lift to get into the seat and get out easily.
Stair lifts also use a rechargeable battery and need to be recharged when not using. This battery helps when there is no power and ensures that the lift does not stop in the middle. They also need to be parked correctly in their place, or else there will be a signal letting you know that you have parked it wrong.
All safety measures are taken care of in the making of a stair lift, to ensure there is no hazard. They stop functioning when there is a problem with the seat, footrest or armrest, and automatically stop when they reach the bottom or top of the stairs. These lifts can also be locked so that children do not use them.
Stair lifts make life easier for you and your loved ones and will give you the peace of mind that a loved one is safe and will not fall down the stairs.
When stairs become an obstacle, it is a low cost alternative to creating separate rooms and shifting people to the ground floor and arranging things to be near them. With a chair lift, the house can be left as is without any changes and the disabled person is as independent as before. It also reduces the wear and tear of the ankle joints, hip joints, and knees, especially if one is not supposed to walk too much.
วันอังคารที่ 21 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Domestic Stairlifts - An Economical Option
When impaired mobility restricts you from easily moving up and down the staircases, install a domestic stair lift. Installing domestic stairlifts is an economical option for users with a limited budget. Domestic stair lifts are small size lifts, easily attached to staircases and guaranteeing smooth operation. Today's domestic stairlifts are used to transport heavy loads between floors besides carrying one handicapped passenger at a time.
A variety of domestic stairlifts are available in the market including straight stair lifts, curved stair lifts, goods stair lifts, pre-owned stair lifts, platform stair lift and wheelchair lifts. In each type, a range of models such as Electra-Ride III, B.07 Straight Stair Chair and Step Saver Straight Stair Chair, Excel® stair lift with folding rail, Stair-Glide® stair lift, Citia stair lifts, and Flow stair lift are available in varying prices and load capacities to suit various indoor and outdoor applications.
In most cases, an ordinary straight stair chair lift is most preferred as it is considered a safer and less expensive solution for all types of homes, bungalows and apartments. Curved stair chair lifts are the practical solution for staircases with bends or curves, even though they are more expensive and complex than the straight stair chair lifts.
For some types of chair lifts, there exists a second-user market. Such chair lifts come under the pre-owned chair lift category. In domestic types, this is most common with straight stair lifts. Pre-owned chair lifts are a low cost solution compared to buying a totally new system.
Domestic stairlifts have their own advantages and disadvantages. Select a suitable domestic stairway lift based on a person's disability, circumstances of your home and type of staircase. As these come with various features and specifications, consider these factors and keep in mind your requirement and the user's safety while choosing excellent durable, flexible and comfortable domestic stair chair lifts for long term or short term use. Among the leading companies that offer domestic stairlifts are ThyssenKrupp Access, Bruno and Savaria Concord.
Considering home stairway lifts as a worthwhile and necessary investment, purchase the most suitable home stairway lifts that meet your requirements from an authorized dealer or manufacturer. Before choosing the right domestic stairlift provider, go through the manufacturer or authorized dealer site for detailed information about the products and their specifications.
Tips on Finding Curved Stairlifts
Stairlifts are essential devices for disabled people to help them go up and down stairways. With these tools disabled people are not limited to living in one-story dwellings.
Stairlifts are generally devices that are mounted on the wall and that hook onto a wheelchair. A mechanical motor then transports the wheelchair up or down the stairs.
Some stairlifts also have their own chair where the disabled person can sit in. These are particularly useful if the person can walk but does not have the ability to go up and down the stairs by themselves.
As we know, not all stairways are straight. Some stairways are curved and that demands a particular kind of stairlift, also known as the curved stairlift.
Curved stairlifts are generally more expensive than the straight type because they have to be custom manufactured or specially adapted for the particular stairwell. This process involves measurement and custom design as well.
There are several companies that specialize in stairlifts.
One of these companies is Easy Step Stairlifts, which are located in the United Kingdom. They provide new, reconditioned, and curved stairlifts to the general public. The manufacturer models that they carry include stairlifts from Brooks, Bison Bede, Liberator, Meditek, Minivator and Thyssen.
Apart from selling stairlifts, Easy Step Stairlifts also do stairlift repair and servicing.
Savaria Concord Lifts is another stairlifts company that you can consider. They are located in Québec, Canada and carry curved as well as straight stairlifts.
They have been in business for over 30 years and their customers can choose from different models, sizes, features and finishes, and can even have wheel chair lifts, stairlifts and elevators custom-made to fit their requirements.
Savaria Concord Lifts sell their stairlifts through authorized dealers.
A stairlift for your home does not only have to be strong and reliable, they also have to be attractive because they are very prominent features in the home. In addition, they also have to be easy to use for the disabled person to go up and down the stairs.
It is best to speak with the professionals about a curved stairlift because it is definitely not a do-it-yourself task.
วันอังคารที่ 7 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Staircases: setting the mood of a house
If you are looking for specific requirements in setting up the most appealing staircase for your home, you need to consider following important things that may help you to choose the best:
Circular Stairs: Fashion trends come and go; some may stay a longer while many return after a considerable period of time. Staircases are no exceptions to this. Circular stairs that were popular in early 1900s have again re-appeared into the staircase market scenario, particularly in upper-end custom homes. Even, circular stairs are becoming a focal point of modern homes, adding better look and providing more comfort while walking. Also, circular stairs can be easily combined with custom newels and carved brackets as per the budget and personal taste of a homeowner.
Choice of Wood: People who prefer wooden stairs can enjoy choosing from a wide array of woods available for making durable staircases. Most staircases are made up of red oak and quarter-sawn white oak, but exotic woods are too getting popular in the market. According to recent reports, there has been an increase of about 15 to 20 percent in the sales of exotic woods. These exotic woods include black walnut, Brazilian cherry, African mahogany, Australian cyprus and anegre.
Features and Needs of Wheelchair Lifts
Concept of Wheel Chair Stair Lifts will surely suit your budget as well as fulfill all of your needs. Previously, the wheelchairs were to be stimulated or raised with the help of man power. With the coming of wheelchair platform stair lifts, this uncomfortable process of lifting wheel chairs manually can be avoided now. At the present time, wheelchair lifts are accessible in unusual sizes as well as designs to be used in both commercial as well as residential purposes.
Wheelchair stair lifts are obtainable in two specifications, AC as well as DC types. A DC activated electric wheel chair stair lift preserves operations even throughout power failures. Electric stair lifts can be associated with telephone jacks and mechanical door opening. The flat process of motoring makes sure about a contented ride. Wheel chair stair lifts are perfect for persons with inadequate mobility origins by diseases, old ages or accidents.
Stair lifts Of Wheelchairs find use in:
• Hospitals • Shops • Offices • Schools • Malls
Features of Wheelchair Lifts:
• Non obligatory remote controls by means of key lock to put off illegal access • Speed load - 340 kg (750lbs) • 3 Drive organization: A/C motorized belt driven ball screw, battery power-driven belt driven ball screw, battery motorized hydraulic • 90° as well as 180° entry/exit configurations • Urgently stop button
Highly responsive sensors are only one of the features of its kind in these equipments that will repeatedly detect which an object is overcrowding the lift’s pathway as well as stop the damage to the lift. If the path is cleared once, the wheelchair stair lift will carry on its function. In addition to that, there are various security features as well as user friendly features that will make wheelchair stair lifts enormously popular.
วันจันทร์ที่ 6 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Stair Lift Rental: 3 Tips Before Deciding
Are you planning for short term usage?
Are you using renting as a financing option?
Is your stairway suitable for renting?
Stair lift rentals are intended for short term use.
There really are only a couple of times that a rental makes sense. First is if you or a loved one are confined to a wheelchair or to not using stairs for a limited time. Examples of this might be that you have a broken leg or have had hip replacement surgery. The other is if a relative or friend is coming to visit for more than a couple of days or weeks. Both are short term and ideal for renting the proper equipment.
Rent payments may add up more than financing.
If you believe that you may need the stairlift for longer than a few months then you may need to work with the sales department of your chosen lift company for other financing options. Typical payments on renting are around $100 or greater plus additional up front fees. With that payment you could have a $3000 lift paid off in slightly over 2 years at 5% interest. Rentals are not meant to be paid off so why continue paying on something you won't return for some time? Also loans, credit cards, and other forms of funding may bring a lower payment therefore helping with your budget.
Rentals are primarily for straight stairwells.
Due to the complexity and variety of stairwells straight stairlifts are the easiest for companies to rent. If your staircase is curved, meaning a straight run with no landings or curvature, you may have difficulty finding a rental stair lift. Renting two lifts is a possibility if your stairs are straight with a landing in between but then you may be looking at higher payments.
Another item to consider is that most rented stair lifts are used. These should be checked out by the company you have hired prior to and after installation.
These are great devices to have in your home for lifting you or your loved one from floor to floor. As long as you are planning for short term usage and have straight stairs then renting could be a very attractive option for you.
Stair Lift Advantages and More
In the United States and the world as a whole, there are countless people who have discovered the great safety benefits that are received by using a stair lift. A fall down the stairs, especially for people who are over the age of 65, often results in injury or even death. There is no need to take this risk, so if you or someone you care about is unsteady on the stairs, you should invest in a stair lift.
Stair lifts are a common type of personal lifting aid that can be installed on most types of stair cases. Those with curved stair cases are at a great disadvantage, because a curved stair lift will take several months to build and install and are also very expensive. A stair lift for a straight staircase on the other hand is not terribly expensive and can easily be installed by most people. Even if you do not feel comfortable doing the installation on your own, paying a professional stair lift installer is still very affordable.
To install a stair lift on a straight staircase it is important to get complete measurements of the stairs. The total length of the stairs will need to be measured and you will also need to measure the dimensions of an individual step on the stairs. You also need to measure how far the top of the stairs is to the nearest obstruction, like a wall or doorway, and will also need this measurement for the bottom of the steps. It is a good idea to have someone help you with the measurements as it is tremendously easier with two individuals. Your stair lift dealer will be able to help you with theses measurements as well and likely has a measurement team who can come to your home if you do not feel comfortable doing it.
In most cases the stair lift will be installed directly to the steps and a track will span the complete distance of the staircase. In instances where the staircase is very narrow, there are several low profile stair lifts available and they can also be attached to the wall. The track will be cut to fit your individual staircase, which is one reason that the measurements are so important.
Attached to the track is a car unit that is sent up and down the staircase. The car unit consists of an electrical motor and a chair. The user will simply sit in the chair and use the attached remote, wireless remote, or call buttons to start the unit moving. A quality stair lift will require constant pressure on the button, which is an important safety feature. A well made and dependable stair lift will also have built in safety sensors that checks for obstacles on the stairs.
A quality stair lift, like the AmeriGlide Batter Powered Stair Lift, will provide many years of dependable service and will be covered by a very substantial warranty. They greatly reduce the dangers associated with falling down the stairs and can also be affixed with baskets to help carry personal goods up the stairs.
วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 2 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Used Stair Lifts Buying Guide
A stair lift is a device that is used to help people who are mobility challenged use their staircase again. Using a track system, which is usually attached to the actual stairs themselves, a chair or platform, is used to carry a person up and down the stairs. This is for many like having a new home, because otherwise they would have only been able to use the ground floor of their home. It also can cut back on costs, because you do not have to pay someone to help you up and down the stairs. In addition many stair lifts come with attachable baskets so you can transport your laundry, groceries, or other belongings easily up and down the stairs.
The safety of you or someone you love depends on the stair lift functioning properly and without fail, so it is not something you really want to purchase from someone you do not know. There is no way to tell if the stair lift was used properly, installed/un-installed properly, or even if it works at all. With all that is riding on the stair lift, both physically and literally, it is much better to buy it from a certified dealer. You can still save thousands by purchasing a used stair lift, but if you buy it from a reputable dealer than you are assured that it has been thoroughly refurbished, inspected, tested, and is completely reliable. For more information on used stair lifts or to find out more about new stair lifts visit a1-medical-supplies.net.
Stair Lifts - The Ups and Downs
Stair lifts are designed to take individuals up and down the stairs with ease and convenience. They are often used by those who are confined to a wheel chair or who have bad knees or other medical issues that make stairs difficult to navigate. They may be used by the elderly and pregnant women as well. Stair chair lifts can be found in a variety of settings including public facilities, restaurants, Churches, Museums, homes, and businesses that have more than one level.
Wheel chair stair lifts are the most common type found in public. These stair lifts work in several different ways, depending on the type of lift design the facility is using. A common type of wheel chair stair lift has a chair built on the lift. This can be difficult to use as it requires the person being able to move out of the wheel chair and into the chair on the lift. Another person has to help the individual because the lift will take them to the top of the chairs, or back down depending on their need. Someone will have to carry their wheel chair up and down the stairs for them to get back in to.
A more convenient type of wheel chair stair lift allows the person in the wheel chair to push their wheel chair onto the lift platform. A safety gate will close behind them. When they reach the top or bottom of the stairs, the front of the lift will open, allowing them to wheel forward out of the lift. This type of lift allows individuals to go up and down stairs without the assistance of anyone else.
Home stair lifts are very convenient for someone who has become wheel chair bound, but who also wants to remain in their home. They are easy to install. Most plug in to a wall current just like a lamp. One draw back is that most homes don’t have back up power sources, so in the event of a power outage, the home stair lifts aren’t usable. The majority of them come with a very good warranty and can be used for individuals who weigh up to 300 pounds.
Used home stair lifts can often be purchased for a fraction of the cost from a home owner that no longer requires it. However, they do not come installed or with a warranty. Some companies that market home stair lifts are starting to offer reconditioned used stair lifts at a lower cost. Purchasing a used stair lift from a company may offer you a short term warranty as well as installation assistance.
Stair lifts are a great invention that allow those who are not able to go up and down the stairs the ability to lead a very normal life. Most businesses and public facilities offer them to be in compliance with ADA requirements. A home stair lift is a great option for someone in a wheel chair or the elderly who want to remain in the home they love and enjoy. It gives them the ability to do so.
วันอังคารที่ 30 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2551
Stair Chair Lift Ratings
Summit Stair Lift
The Summit stair lift is for those on a limited budget. It has been designed to offer basic functionality that is reliable. The Summit is still powered by AC mains electricity. Just about every manufacturer uses DC 24 volt rechargeable batteries. Battery powered stair chair lifts are better because they offer smoother starts and stops, are easy to install as there's no wiring, are safer than mains and the lift can still be operated during power outages. The Summit also uses an outmoded cable system to pull the carriage along the track. The cable used in the stair chair lift by Summit is aircraft cable and is rated at 4,200 lbs, so there is no danger of breakage.
The Summit does come with basic safety control. The footrest has a sensor that will immediately stop the chair should it encounter any object on the stairs. You also get a seatbelt. What you won't get with a Summit stair lift are sensors on the actual carriage itself, so an object on the track will not stop the chair. The control panels are not wireless either, they are wall mounted.
The Summit chair lift is a product that will transport the user up and down the stairs - though not in any great style. It is a workhorse and has been proven to be reliable with surprising little maintenance even though it employs old technology.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Acorn Stair Lift
Acorn stair lifts, like Summit, can only be used on a straight staircase. Unlike a Summit lift, the Acorn is a more sophisticated machine. The Acorn Superglide stair lift is a battery powered rack and pinion system. This is the industry norm. The rechargeable battery pack gives a smooth start and stop and the rack and pinion drive ensures a smooth ride overall. The Acorn comes with two wireless remote controls with send/call functionality. There is also a mechanical joystick to control the stair chair lift - the toggle overrides the remote controls.
You can also buy the Acorn Superglide outdoor stair lift. Interestingly, Acorn also makes a perch stair lift for those who find sitting uncomfortable or impossible. The Acorn Perch can also be used on narrower staircases. The Superglide Perch by Acorn comes with a 'wander lead' control which can be positioned to allow maximum comfort and ease of operation.
The Acorn stair lift would suit the requirements of the majority and is an excellent stair chair lift.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Bruno Stair Lift
Few manufacturers make curved stair lifts. This is because they lack the expertise. Bruno is a company that does have this expertise. Bruno is ISO-9001 certified, which is the most stringent and widely recognized quality standards in the world.
Bruno makes not just one straight stairlift but four; 3 home stair and 1 outdoor lift. Each home stair lift from Bruno offers a heap of features that come as standard. The Electra-Ride Elite is its top model. It comes with 5 surfaces fitted with safety sensors, on both the footrest and carriage. It has an overspeed safety brake, retractable seat belts, and wireless remote controls and it can carry up to 400lbs. The seat height can be adjusted from 19" to 24 1/2" and the footrest can be adjusted too to give maximum comfort. The rail protrudes 5" from the skirting - the industry norm is about 8".
The Bruno Electra-Ride III Curved Rail can be installed on just about any staircase, no matter how much it curves. It can carry up to 350 lbs and an optional wrap-around “park” position is designed to save room and make using the stair lift that much easier.
The Bruno stair lift is one of the best on the market and remains very popular.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Stannah Stair Lift
Stannah is a UK stair lift manufacturer that now ships to over 40 countries. In my opinion this is the best stair lift you can buy. Stannah recently released the Stannah 120 with Solia and Solus models. The stair chair lifts were designed in partnership with one of Europe's leading design agencies and it shows. The Solus has a real contemporary look while the Solia appeals to the more traditional user. Not only do these lifts look good but they are probably the most technically advanced on the market. Stannah chair lifts can be used on stairs with an inclination of 52 degrees - just about everyone else in the industry can only manage 45 degrees. Also, Stannah have developed a unique and innovative twin rack system for the track. Not only does it look stylish but it only protrudes the skirting by 3.7" making a Stannah ideal for steep or narrow staircases.
The other features that come with the Stannah can match and out do anything else on the market. For instance, the Stannah chair lift can be supplied with a motorized swivel chair - fantastic for those will severe mobility problems. No other manufacturer offers this.
The Stannah stair chair lift is the Rolls Royce of the industry.
Rating: I'd like to give it 5 out of 5 but nothing is perfect, so I'll settle for 4.99 out of 5.
Electric Stair Lift: The Truth About Buying One
If you are at that of life where either due to illness or grappling with disease you find yourself unable to safely use the stairs? Then you should consider getting a lift device for your home or office. This device will definitely enable you to regain the use of your home in a safer more secure environment. Falls are very problematic for many people.
The devices can basically be divided into two major categories. One is a straight angled device. Is the right device model for you? Well that will depend on the specifications of your home. Reason being is that your straight angle may be to long. Some of the best devices can serve from about 5 to 20 feet. If installed properly they are a safe ride and you'll get years and years of use out of them.
The other major model is an angled model. This style was built to serve the needs of customers who had staircases that were curved. As you can imagine this takes more time to install. So no getting a neighbor to come over and help install it. This model must be custom build on site. Since it does take more time, the vendors suggest that this is the only reason the price is more expensive than the former model. You do want a safe working model don't you? Of course. Then that is the reason to just price in the custom installation and do know that it should work perfectly thereafter.
Many people suffering from Rheumatoid arthritis and frozen knees cannot use the stairs safely. The government with Medicare may assist in financing this device for you. If you live in America you may be able to use Medicare and private insurance to pay for this. If the Medicare pays for some electronic wheel chairs, why wouldn't they pay for your electric stair lift? Please do a little investigation of this online.
Choosing an Electric or Battery Powered Stair Lift
The advent of technologies has made great impacts on human lives. It has improved ways of doing things in various health related concerns and disability issues. The Stair lift is one invention that has provided tremendous effects in easing the need to go up or downstairs for people suffering from painful joint or back injuries. Many lives have improved and become more comfortable after installing an electric or battery powered stair lift in their homes. It is important to take note which type of stair lift to choose if you decide to have one. There are advantages and disadvantages when opting for a battery powered lift over an electric one.
Electric or AC powered stair lifts used to be the more popular option. It is directly connected to a main power supply through trailing cable. It generally runs on a 110 to 115 grounded VAC outlet. At the top of the stair is a spring-loaded drum that stores the cable. Obviously, its main advantage is being free from the hassle of changing and charging batteries. This is very important when you expect to use the stair lifts regularly or when more people is likely to use it. Also, AC models are usually cheaper than battery powered stair lifts. The major drawback is the dependency to power connection. If your area frequently experience power outages, then electric stair lifts may not be the best choice. AC models are also more prone to irregular stop and start motions. This of course can bring discomfort and even pain to users. The cables that it uses can be also a risk for anyone can trip from it accidentally.
Also known as DC powered stair lifts, battery stair lifts are apparently operated by a battery that should be recharged after a certain period of usage. There are DC models that provide charging stations anywhere on the trail or at both ends of the rail. The best thing about battery powered lifts is that you can use it anytime you want without worrying if a power outage or blackout suddenly occurs. It offers a smoother maneuver compare to AC models and are also quieter – a big difference for people with delicate health conditions. The main disadvantage is the time and effort you have to exert in charging the batteries. This is a real trouble when a lot of people are using the stair lifts too. Also, even though most batteries in the market now are inexpensive and last for many years, you still have to replace it over a period of time and you have to take note that this kind of battery does not come cheap.
วันจันทร์ที่ 22 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2551
Stair Lifts and Safety
Walking up and down the stairs is something that is often taken for granted when we are young. As we bound up the steps 2 at a time, we do not realize that for many the steps present a very large obstacle. If you can not easily or safely use the stairs in your home, you might be tempted to avoid the upstairs areas and might even consider selling your house. These options are unnecessary if you own a stair lift.
A stair lift is a mobility aid that is installed to a staircase and is used to carry an individual up and down the staircase. In most cases a strong aluminum track is secured directly to the stairs. Attached to the track is a car unit that consists of an electric motor and a chair or small platform. The car travels up and down the stairs on the track and can support one rider.
Many people choose to install the stair lift on their own and if you have a straight staircase, this process can generally be done quickly and efficiently. The first step is to secure the track to the steps. Generally the car comes loaded on a short piece of track and this small piece of track is connected to the track on the stairs. The car unit, which consists of electrical motor, chair or platform, and in some cases batteries. The car can be quite heavy, so it is a good idea to get some help bringing it to the top of the stairs. After the small piece of track that holds the car is attached to the stairs, the car is plugged in and backed down onto the track. The small piece of track can then be removed.
While a stair lift for a straight staircase can be installed quickly and inexpensively, if you have a curved staircase, it will cost much more and require professional installation. Sometimes it is possible to install 2 straight stair lifts, but this can only be done on “L” shaped staircases that have a landing. This is much less expensive and can be ordered and installed in less than a week, but if you must go with a curved stair lift you are looking at a process that can last over 2 months from the time of order to the time it is installed.
Stair lifts provide a great way to bridge the gap between areas of different elevation in a home. They can also be used outdoors on the front steps and greatly improve mobility. If you are interested in learning more about stair lifts and other lifting aids, visit AmeriGlide today. They can answer all of your Battery Powered Stair Lift questions.
The stair lift
A stair lift, sometimes also called a handicap lift is made up of a high-quality wall-mounted rail with a comfortable, mechanic chair attached. This chair moves up and down the rail through a rack-and-pinion system, transporting the seated individual up and down the stairs with very little effort. The device was originally invented by C.C. Crispen during the polio epidemic of the 1920s, to help his wheel chaired friend in climbing the stairs of his house. Recently, the machine then known as the ‘inclin-ator’ has underwent major steps in development. Stair lifts come in a wide variety of models, able to tackle both straight stairways and stairs with a curvature. Additionally, one may encounter models for use outside and models which feature a large platform suitable for parking a wheelchair.
If lack of mobility starts limiting your life to the ground floor of your house, you may want to think about having a stair lift installed. In these days, stair lifts no longer have to be those bland industrial-like machines that contrast so strongly with your home interior. You will discover that there is a large variety of seat models and coverings available, to make sure your stair lift fits perfectly into the warm familiarity of your home. As for power, stair lifts come in both AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) variations. AC-powered lifts are connected directly to the mains power supply, while DC-powered lifts utilize a special kind of rechargeable battery pack. DC-powered lifts are usually more expensive, but they have several important advantages. The biggest advantage of a DC-powered lift over an AC-powered lift is safety; in case of a power blackout, a DC-powered lift will continue to work. You should remember that short-circuits are a very common cause of fire; in such a case, an AC-powered lift will not be able to transport you down to safety. When purchasing a stair lift, also take the following factors into consideration:
* Glide: the glide-factor will affect the overall smoothness of the ride. * Power supply: a DC powered lift offers better safety and a generally smoother ride. * Control: for those suffering from arthritis, a joystick-based control is generally regarded as easier to use than a button control. * A swivel chair will allow you to exit and enter the lift without taking awkward steps.
วันพุธที่ 10 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2551
Information About An Inclined Wheelchair Stair Lift
A chair stair lift operates by means of pulling a chair along a rack - usually by a rack and pinion system. They are two types; straight and curved. The price of a curved stair lift is much more expensive than a straight model as it is custom made for a particular staircase. The rack on which it moves is not mounted on the wall, rather it is fixed to the stair treads. This makes installation somewhat straight forward.
However, for someone who is wheelchair bound and cannot lift themselves on to a chair these types of chair lifts are inappropriate. A wheelchair lift is required. There are two types available; vertical wheelchair lifts and inclined wheelchair stair lifts.
Vertical models are really elevators to give the user access to floors. For many domestic homes this is simply not an option, due to cost and space requirements.
Inclined wheelchair stair lifts look more like conventional units, inasmuch as one travels up and down a flight of stairs. However, inclined units are much more problematic to install than a regular one.
Space is always an issue with inclined units. The width of the stairs have to be wide enough to accommodate the platform, which will be a little large than the 'footprint' of the wheelchair. Also, the landing area at both the top and bottom of the stairs has to be sufficient to allow the user to get on and off the ramp. Another installation issue is that the rack is wall mounted, therefore the stairs must be hard against a load bearing wall. Both of these limitations make the installation of this type of lift impossible in most domestic homes.
However, if your stairs are wide enough and are against a load bearing wall a wheelchair stair lift might be the answer to your mobility problems.
There are a number of suppliers of wheelchair stair lifts. National Wheel-O-Vator and Stannah Stairiser Wheelchair Stair Lift both make excellent versions for wheelchairs. Both companies products come with the following features: bi-directional safety platform sensors not only provide protection for the user but for others who might be using the stairs; safety barrier arms and access ramps are mechanically locked during travel; the platform can be accessed from both front and side - the side ramps rise to secure the wheelchair when the platform is in motion.
Stair Lifts - A Guide To Choosing A Stair Lift
When buying a new stair lift, a representative from the supplier will need to visit your home to take measurements of your staircase and assess your needs. It can be helpful to have a friend or relative with you to ask questions and make notes. Ask for a written quotation and take time to think about any offer before making your decision. Stair lifts can be costly, so it is worth shopping around and getting quotes from a few different companies to compare their prices, terms and conditions and level of warranty. Used stair lifts are generally cheaper, but be wary of buying secondhand from a private sale as there is unlikely to be any warranty. Reconditioned stair lifts from a reputable supplier can be good value, but check the extent of the guarantee before you buy.
Stair lifts can be fitted to any staircase. Straight stair lifts are for simple straight staircases, whereas curved stair lifts can be adapted to negotiate stairs that turn or bend. Outdoor stair lifts are also available, and can be fitted to outside steps if required, to provide access to an entrance door or to a garden for example. There are various optional features that can be included depending on your needs. For instance, if you have arthritis, you may find it painful to press the control buttons, in which case you could opt to have a joystick fitted instead. A swivel seat is another useful feature, making it easier to get on and off your stair chair.
Moving up or down the stairs is safer and more comfortable in a sitting position, so the majority of stairlifts have a chair to sit in. However, variations are available for people who find it difficult to sit. Stand-on stair lifts can be fitted to straight staircases, for people who can't easily bend their legs, although for safety reasons these do tend to have a weight limit. Perching stair lifts are another type, suitable for people who find it hard to bend their knees or straighten their legs fully.
Whatever your particular needs, a representative from a stair lift manufacturer should be able to advise you on the most suitable model for you and will be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Having a stair lift installed can transform your life and give you the peace of mind of knowing that your stairs are no longer an obstacle.
วันจันทร์ที่ 8 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2551
The Wheelchair Stair Lift From Stannah
A wheelchair stair lift differs greatly from a conventional model. But first, let's get one thing clear; we're talking about inclined wheelchair stair lifts. This type travels up and down stairs - unlike vertical wheelchair lifts that resemble an elevator.
A regular stair lift consists of a chair that moves along a track. The track is always mounted on the stair tread and not on the wall. An inclined wheelchair stair lift consists of a platform that moves along a track. Because of size and weight considerations, the track is always mounted on the wall. Also, the platform of a wheelchair unit is considerably larger than the seat of a conventional model therefore the stairway must be wide.
So before even looking at a Stannah wheelchair stair lift you must first satisfy two conditions; are your stairs wide enough to accommodate the width of your wheelchair and platform, and are your stairs against a load bearing wall. If the answer to either of these two questions is no then a wheelchair stair lift is not the answer to your problem.
Stannah currently offer two wheelchair stair lifts; the Stairiser SX for straight stairs and the Stairiser CR for curved or turned stairs.
Some of the key features you get with both of these models are;
1. Is easily operated using simple control by the user or companion.
2. The platform automatically folds away or in to position when required.
3. Barrier arms and platform lock down before the platform moves.
4. Sensors will immediately stop the stair lift when any obstruction is encountered.
5. The platform can be accessed either from the front or the side - the side flaps lock and secure the wheels when the platform moves.
Unlike some wheelchair stair lift companies, Stannah don't custom make the platform. This would be the best option, however you are offered a choice of four platform sizes; 750mm x 900mm, 810mm x 1050mm, 810mm x 1200mm and 810mm x 1250mm. So these platforms should accommodate just about all wheelchairs.
Installation can be surprisingly quick. A Stannah unit can be installed in as little as one day for straightforward situations; however you should expect the installation to take far longer than this if you have a curved stairway - sometimes many weeks.
The price of a wheelchair stair lift from Stannah - or from any other company - is going to be expensive. An onsite inspection is required before the cost can be given.
All in all, a wheelchair stair lift is not a viable for the vast majority of wheelchair users, which is a shame. However, if you're one of the lucky few then the Stannah wheelchair stair lift is one model should take a look at. But, as buying anything else, shop around and get the best one for your needs.
What Determines Stair Lift Prices
Firstly the price will depend on the make and model of stair lift that they choose to have installed in their home. Certainly a curved stair lift is going to be more expensive than a straight stair lift. Simply because it will take a lot more effort and time to install.
Also as well as looking at whether you have a curved or straight stair lift installed in your home, then you need to look to see if you want additional features added to it. Some people are looking for ones that come with a wheelchair platform whilst others are looking for those which have arms. However it is essential that which ever model of stair lift you choose to purchase, it should include a good quality safety belt as part of its standard features.
When it comes to choosing the right kind of stair lift for your home making the choice yourself may seem quite difficult, therefore it is wise that you spend time discussing the matter with a reputable stair lift retailer. Many of these companies will then arrange to make a visit to your home to see the location and the types of stairs you have in your home and they will then be able to recommend the best make and model of stair lifts.
But as well as factoring in the costs for having the stair lift installed and also the cost for purchasing you will also need to factor in such costs for the warranty of the device and also in relation to any repairs or maintenance and service charges that you may need to pay.
However stair lifts prices are actually dropping quite considerably simply because more and more people are seeing the advantages of having a stair lift.
Used Outdoor Stair Lift: An Inexpensive Way To Keep Enjoying The Outdoors
Today most houses are made with patios and viewing decks so the resident(s) can step outside for a little recreational "breather." However, most homes fail to provide a feasible way for handicapped individuals to enjoy the same things.
In many cases, these individuals have a hard time utilizing the staircase, which adds hazard to inconvenience. That is why the outdoor stair lift was invented! There are many options to choose from in this day and age, so it's typically fairly easy to find one that best suits your needs.
All stair lifts are made up of 4 basic parts, including the train, which drives the lift, the actual track, the chassis and the chair. The drive trains can be found within the lift's chassis. These trains are made up of gears and pulleys as well, which cause it to move along its track. The drive trains are operated by either the pinion, cable or by a rack.
There are many different factors to be considered when one decides to install a stair lift. A few of these include the type of material in which the steps will be made of(ie. Concrete, wood etc.) and an accurate measurement of the length of the stairs.
You can usually get a good deal on a used or a pre-owned outdoor stair lift. In many cases you can find a stair lift, which still looks and operates like new for half price or better; you just have to look. They usually come with the remainder of the factory's warranty as well.
An outdoor stair lift is really a great investment for someone who is disabled and in a wheelchair. They will most definitely benefit from it and will no longer be limited to the confines of their home and their life in general will typically be happier!
Excel Stair Lift: 3 Features That Are Lessor Known
These three lesser known features will keep you and others safe, make transport easier for all kinds of disabilities, and truly make the lift a part of your home.
Excel stair-lifts are equipped with multiple safety features. One of these features are safety sensors. These sensors detect objects that are on the stairs and in the way and will stop the lift until the object is moved. So if you have objects dropped on the stairway, a loving pet that wants in your lap, or a toddler that's fascinated with the whole machine you won't have to worry about running into or over them.
Stair lifts are designed for people who are still somewhat mobile but unable to climb steps. What about if other parts of your body are immobile as sometimes happens after a stroke. The controls on the Excel are fairly versatile. Control choices range from a remote control that others can use, to a joystick that you nudge the direction you want to go to push button controls on the seat. You can have the controls on either side therefore utilizing your strongest side if need be.
Who wants some gawky looking piece of equipment lined up and down your steps? With choices in colors and materials and a design that is stylish you can have your lift looking as if it was designed as part of the home.
No one want to have to use a stairlift. But with safety features, versatile control and interior decor options offered from the Excel line it makes owning and using one more bearable.
วันอังคารที่ 2 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2551
Improve Your Mobility At Home
Push come to shove, many of us will not mind walking up a few steps or a single flight of stairs, but what if your situation meant you physically couldn't climb a few steps? Many people overlook, or are not even aware that the kinds of lifts you see in shopping centers can be added to their own home to improve mobility. While you probably don't have the room for a nice glass elevator, there are alternatives available - domestic lifts that are designed specifically for your home.
There are many areas where a small domestic lift will come in handy and would greatly increase the quality of life of an elderly or disabled person.
First off, you can install a lift to your front door - usually known as a step lift as it rises only by a few feet. It's really useful when you have to walk up 3 or 4 steps to reach your front door. By using a step lift, the steps can be completely removed and replaced by this kind of lift. This kind of wheelchair lift works by raising a platform using hydraulic jacks underneath. All sides are enclosed, so there's no chance of falling off!
The next type of domestic lift you can employ is a stair lift. Like the name sounds, a stair lift will effortlessly glide you up a flight of stairs - exceptionally useful if an elderly or immobile person lives in a two storey house.
Stair lifts are designed to fit along side the existing flight of stairs so mobile people have no trouble moving up and down. A rail is attached to the wall, and the person either sits in a chair (strapped in of course), or on larger stair lifts, it can be a 'roll-on roll-off' type platform for the wheelchair user. Of course if you are lucky enough to have room for a vertical lift in your home, there are small, compact wheelchair lifts available. Solutions can include cutting through the floor and building an extension that houses your lift.
The final type of domestic lift is for a shower or bath. By using such a lift, the user can be gently lowered in to and out of the bath, without fear of slipping or requiring the usual nimbleness for getting in and out of the bath!
So whether you are looking to get more mobility around the house, or trying to help someone else get more mobility, consider the use of domestic lifts in and about the home - lifts are not just for shopping centers!. For further information visit site http://www.terrylifts.co.uk/.
Terry’s Lifts have been supplying and installing wheelchair lifts for the past 30 years. Use our free tool that helps you find what kind of platform or vertical lift is right for you.
Why You Should Not Self-Install A Stair Lift
Many retailers now promote self installation for the goods they sell. The consumer is left to install and ensure that whatever it is they buy works properly and safely. The message put across is that because the supplier is only providing the merchandise prices are kept to a minimum. This marketing trend has spread to stair lifts. Straight stair lifts are often touted as being easy to install and the burgeoning market of used stair lifts has fuelled this concept of DIY installation.
The consumer may initially save on the cost of installation but they expose themselves to accidents, increased maintenance costs due to improper installation and lack of any king of warranty.
The AMEA (Accessibility Equipment Manufacturer’s Association) strongly advises against self installation of both new and used lifts. The AMEA points out that with self installation the consumer cannot possibly know if they have installed it in a safe manner. Also, the consumer can't be sure if it has been installed in such a manner that ensures operational safety and that the installation conforms to local codes and regulations.
For these reasons the AMEA advises consumers to only buy new and used machines from reputable dealers who will both supply and install it. The dealer will not only have received training of installation procedures from the manufacturer, he will also be aware of conformance requirements with both local and national codes; in many localities, the codes referenced are the ASME A17.1, the A18.1, and the NFPA70 (National Electrical Code). Your average consumer will be ignorant of such matters.
As well as conforming to certain installation practices, many localities require that the installation of a stair lift is carried out by someone/organization that has a license or permit to do so.
By ignoring or disregarding the above two points the person self-installing lift could well be breaking the law. Besides, would the average person who is fitting one for the first time be knowledgeable about the clearances needed, the electrical safety and the proper anchoring of one?
Stair lifts are complex machines, employing the latest technology. The safety of them can only be guaranteed when they have been installed by a technician with the correct knowledge, training, experience and permits.
Finally, self-installation of stair lifts provides the consumer with no come back. The dealer who sold the machine can wash his hands of the matter should any problems be encountered. Even problems not caused by improper installation can be dismissed under the term 'my company isn't responsible because we didn't install it'. You will always get a warranty when a reputable supplier carries out the installation.
Though self-installation of a stair lift may seem attractive, there is a very real danger of harming the most vulnerable; the old and the disabled.
Buying A Handicap Stair Lift
However, once a person has made up their mind to buy one they are immediately confronted with an information overload. Therefore, it is strongly advisable to seek expert help, even if you're sure of what you want. This advice shouldn't just come from the dealership; get advice from your community occupational therapist - their advice will be unbiased.
Also, don't just look at one make or brand and go to at least three dealers. You should only talk to dealers who have a telephone line - many dealers on the internet don't have one - and who offer telephone after sales service. One tip: if the dealer tells you that you might consider self installation, walk away. If you install one by yourself you will have very little comeback if anything goes wrong. Most reputable brands of stair lifts like Bruno Stairlifts and Stannah Stair Lifts will insist that their products are only installed by fully trained technicians.
It's hard to know exactly what you'll be getting unless you first test drive the appliance. If you can, go and visit a dealer's showroom and actually sit in the chair.
The technology used has come on leaps and bounds. However, some companies continue to sell old, outdated models. Try to research as many different brands as you can - the internet is a great place to start. If you really don't know where to begin you could look at Acorn, Bruno and Stannah. There are other good quality manufacturers but these should keep you going for a while.
After your research you need to decide on what features you want. Some manufacturers provide many as standard whilst other may only provide them as options or not at all. Generally, speaking the more features you want, the more you're going to pay. Don't let anyone talk you into spending past your budget.
Get more than one quote and try to compare like with like.
Here are some tips.
Try a manufacturer and a local supplier to get a price comparison.
Ask your local authority or Occupational Therapist who they prefer to use.
If possible have another family member or an O/T present so you are not pressurized into doing anything you may regret later.
Don't forget about maintenance and service costs. It's amazing how many people just don't bother to ask. What warranty do you get and how can you contact the company if anything goes wrong? Many reputable dealerships have a 24/7 telephone service where you can get an instant response to your problem.
Finally, don't let anyone force you into buying something you don't want or isn't right for you: beware of the 'you must buy today to get a great discount'. A reputable dealer will never resort to this scam. Home stair lifts can give a disabled person access to their home but a stair lift won't be suitable for everyone.
วันอังคารที่ 26 สิงหาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Stannah Stair Lifts - The Most Stylish On The Market.
Stannah is a UK stair lift manufacturer that now exports to over 40 countries. The company has a wide network of dealers who will advise, sell and carry out installation. The price of a chair lift is high and Stannah tend to be more expensive than most, so how can the company justify the price? But when looking at stair lifts you shouldn't just look at price; sure, other makes are cheaper buy you won't be getting everything you would if you bought a Stannah. They come with far more features than most, helping to give the customer a more comfortable and safer ride. The company also makes stylish machines so let's review them in terms of its style.
Stair lifts have been on the market for quite some time and they serve their purpose. However, many people who want one are also looking for something that is aesthetically pleasing and will complement rather than down-grade the look of a staircase. The ' baby boomer' generation is more design-conscious than their parents were and want to buy products that not only work well but look contemporary and stylish.
Most companies were oblivious to this but Stannah realized the need for change. The company worked with the internationally renowned design consultancy, SeymourPowell, on a new line of machines. The result was the introduction of the Stannah Solus and Stannah Sofia stair lift. These new models have the look of other household products instead of the industrial machine look of most other brands.
The two new stair lifts from Stannah are available in both straight and curved configurations. The two models were designed to appeal to two different tastes.
The Solus stair lift from Stannah is modern, stylish with a more minimalist look. The seat is shorter and more discreet with a cut-out to give a greater feeling of light and space. Its look is urban modernity with its chic leather upholstery that comes in a neutral color range including cocoa, oyster and slate. For those who don't like leather there is a soft woven fabric option in fawn and flame.
The Sofia stair lift from Stannah has a more classic look. The seat is comfortable and supportive and is generously upholstered with a soft fabric seat. New colors have been introduced to appeal to a wider audience while still being attractive to consumers with more traditional tastes. Colors include soft woven, woolen fabric in flame, conifer, melon and fawn or modern new vinyl in sand or lavender.
The company also reviewed the track. The new Stannah stair lift still uses a rack and pinion system to pull the chair (the industry norm) but it employs a unique double rail. This double rail track really complements the modern look of the Solus. By the way, not only does this innovative rail look stunning, it actually takes up less space; its mounted around 5" off the wall as compared to 7-8" of the Bruno curved stair lift.
Since their launch, the Solus from Stannah has received the Gold Trophy of Design at the Batimat Exhibition in Paris - this is a prestigious construction industry exhibition. Stannah appreciates that it makes products that help those with mobility problems but it hasn't forgotten that its customers also appreciate style and elegance like everyone else.
Bruno And Stannah Stair Lifts - Makers Of The Best Curved Stair Lifts
Bruno has been is business since 1984 and is a family owned US manufacturer. They are an ISO 9001 Certified manufacturer, which means they produce products of the highest quality using the best materials and latest technology. Bruno chair lifts are very popular. The company makes a curved version called the Electra-Ride III Curved Rail.
Stannah is a UK manufacturer and has been in business for over 140 years and is still owned by the family that founded the company. It began making appliances for the UK market in 1975 and began exporting in 1979. Stannah stair lifts are now exported to over 40 countries. To date the company has installed over a quarter of a million of them. The company makes a curved model called the Stannah 260 Stair Lift.
What follows is a comparison and review of both models.
Seat
Both companies' seats come with the usual features of fold-down seat and flip-up foot rest. Both seats offer safety detectors mounted on the footrest to immediately stop the chair if any obstacle is encountered.
The standard weight capacity of the Stannah 260 is about 270 lbs. The Bruno lift can carry heavier loads; up to 350 lbs as standard. If you're on the large size the Bruno might be the best choice.
Both seats come with controls in the armrest. The Bruno comes with a 3 position, momentary rocker switch requiring the user to continuously hold it down to the control unit; the switch is mounted under arm. The Stannah comes with one removable ‘on/off’ key cap at the end of arm and a light-touch tiller-style control for up/down operation. What control system is best is a matter of personal preference, however, the Stannah does look the more attractive of the two and its ergonomic design is easier for most to use effortlessly.
Both chairs can be swiveled to allow easy access. Both the Stannah and the Bruno stair lift come with manual operation as standard - you depress a lever to swivel the seat. However, with the Stannah you have the option to upgrade to a motorized swivel seat - this can be a real plus point for those with more restricted mobility.
Track
Both companies use a rack and pinion system, which is the industry norm. Both tracks look attractive but the unique twin rail system of the Stannah perhaps does look a little more elegant. The Stannah also beats the Bruno when it comes to space requirements. The Bruno rail is fitted to about 7 to 8 inches from the wall; the Stannah rail is fitted closer at around 5 inches. Also, the actual width of the rail is thinner due to its innovative twin track system. Finally, the standard angle at which the rail can be fitted is a maximum of 45 degrees with the Bruno. The Stannah wins again, as its stair lift can cope with 52 degrees as standard.
Therefore, if your staircase is narrow or quite steep, the Stannah stair lift would be the best choice.
Safety Features
Both companies' chairs come with a plethora of safety features. Both come with retractable safety belts. They also come with overspeed governors to slow the carriage from travelling over a certain speed. Both have footrest safety sensors to stop the carriage when touching any obstruction. Both are battery powered, therefore they can still operate if there's a power outage. All in all, both lifts match each other in terms of safety.
The stair lift price for the Bruno and Stannah will depend on what features you want and what deal your local supplier will give you. A curved model requires an onsite survey as the track has to be custom made. Surveys from reputable dealers are free with no obligation to buy. Your best bet is to ask for a survey for both the Bruno Electra-Ride III Curved Rail and the Stannah 260. Compare the options on offer and the overall cost. You can easily find both a Bruno and Stannah supplier on the web.
An Overview Of Bruno Stair Lifts
The company has been awarded the ISO-9001 certification, which means that Bruno Stair Lifts are recognized for product excellence worldwide. Indeed, the company occupies the high-end of stair lifts. Most companies don't have the technical expertise to produce outdoor stair lifts or curved stair lifts; Bruno and some others like Stannah Stair Lifts do.
All stairlifts are sold, installed and serviced by Bruno’s factory trained network of dealers. Bruno stair lifts come with a 2 year warranty on all parts and a 5 year warranty on the gear box, motor and rail system, which is as good as any warranty in the industry.
Bruno makes 3 home stair lifts; the Electra-Ride LT, the Electra-Ride II and the Electra-Ride Elite. It also makes an outdoor model called the Outdoor Electra-Ride Elite and is the first in the industry that can carry a pay load of 400 lbs.
All of the straight stair lifts made by Bruno can operate up to a maximum incline of 45 degrees and to a minimum stair case width of 32". Other companies can offer better specifications; the Stannah 120 stair lift can handle an incline of 52 degrees and the Acorn Superglide Perch stair lift can be fitted on narrower stairs. However, most domestic staircases can be fitted with a Bruno stair lift.
Bruno also makes a curved stair lift called the Electra-Ride III Curved Rail. Again what's impressive about this stair lift is that it can carry up to 350 lbs. The Stannah curved stair lift carries less than 300 lbs.
All of Bruno's stair lifts are powered by DC 24 volt rechargeable batteries. Just about all modern stair lifts now use batteries rather than mains power. There are many advantages to using batteries; they're safe with no possibility of electrocution; they provide smoother starts and stops; and you can still use the stair lift during power outages. What is particularly impressive about Bruno stair chair lifts is the length of their battery life. The company claims that the battery will last an amazing 3-4 days or 15 trips up and down the stairs. The battery itself is built to last 3-5 years and replacements can easily be bought from your local hardware store.
Bruno's products have been awarded accreditations and awards, including the Today's Caregiver Magazine's “Caregiver Friendly” product award and the Da Vinci new product award for a lift-up power mobility seat.
So, are Bruno stair lifts the best on the market? Well, we have to say that there stair lifts on the market that offer more features as standard and look more stylish; the Stannah Solus stair lift being one. Also, other manufacturers supply stair lifts at a lower price; the Ameriglide stair lift being an example. However, in the price range of the Bruno stair lift, it probably does offer the best product. You can get more features from other brands but you pay more, or you pay less for another brand stair lift but you'll get fewer features than the Bruno
วันพุธที่ 20 สิงหาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Common Stair Lift Parts And Components That You Should Know
Track
The track is what the lift moves up and down on. The simplest and least expensive designs are straight. Tracks are available for a curved stairs and tend to be more expensive.
Drive
The drive is what transfers the movement of the motor to move the chair lifting or lowering you to your destination. The most popular today is rack and pinion drives. Cable or screw drives are older technology and may be available as well.
Chair In order to make the trip you've got to have a place to sit. Chairs on a may swivel so you can safely get on at either landing. The two types that swivel will turn 90 or 180 degrees. On some models the track may be long enough that a swiveling chair may not be needed. All chairs will include a footrest but a powered folding footrest may also be an option.
Controls
You need some type of control to make your lift move. Many use a hand held wired remote. Wireless remotes are becoming more popular and depending on your situation may be more appropriate for your use.
Power
Your stairlift will require electricity to make the trip up or down the track. There are three types of power sources. The most popular and least complicated is a battery pack located in the chair/motor assembly. The batteries are charged from a charging station located at either end of the track which are plugged into the nearest AC outlet.
The other two types consist of a tethered cord that moves along with the chair/motor assembly. One type has batteries but is constantly charged. The other type relies solely on the AC power. The downfall to either of these is the tethered cable. It is constantly winding and unwinding and can eventually fail causing problems and requiring repair service.
Although each manufacturers stair-lift vary slightly you will find that they have these common features. Each will have their own design requirements for each style of staircase. Each will have literature or phone numbers available discussing what options are available to you and what dimensions are required in your stairway.
Stone Dupree has been active in repairing and maintaining medical devices in the hospital and clinical environment for nearly twenty years. He loves to share tips from his experiences with others through his websites. Visit http://www.stairliftinfo.info to learn more about straight s and other lifts for the home. You'll find many tips and advice on finding and purchasing a for your home.
