Stair Chair Lift Ratings

Stair chair lifts are giving people back their mobility and their home. But deciding on what is the best stair lift for your needs isn't that easy. Not all residential models offer the same features and the price variation between brands can be enormous. What follows are stairlift ratings of the most popular brands.

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

When it comes to electric stair lifts on the market today. You'll have to make choices from many vendors. The decision process and shopping makes some people feel confused and frustrated. Well, their are some features that you'll need that others will not. So, the best place to start is inventorying what your needs are.

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

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.

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

For many elderly and/or disabled people, the stairs that once were such a breeze may may suddenly become a major obstacle in daily life. As a result, these people spend most of their times confined to the ground floor of their homes, with the upper levels practically unreachable. According to research performed by the University of California Disability Statistics Center, more than 60% of the 1.6 million wheelchairs users in America face daily problems in getting around the house. Often times, the relatives of these people will simply advise solving the problem by moving to a bungalow or care home. However, the logistical and mental impacts of moving one’s residence are many times grossly underestimated. To those affected, having to leave one’s trusted home will often feel like giving up, which might ultimately lead to depression and a general sense of failure. Luckily, there is an answer: a 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.

Information About An Inclined Wheelchair Stair Lift

A stair lift can be the solution to getting up and down stairs and there are many on the market. However, nearly all require that the person using one lift be able to lift themselves on and off it. For the wheelchair bound this is not always viable. An inclined wheelchair stair lift might be the answer.

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

Stair lifts make life easier for many people who find it a struggle to use the stairs in their home. If you or a loved one has limited mobility, your staircase needn't be daunting. By installing a home stair lift, you can remain independent in your own home and get rid of the daily problems that the stairs present. If you're considering purchasing a stair lift, here are some things to take into account and help make your decision clearer.

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.

The Wheelchair Stair Lift From Stannah

Stannah is a market leader in the manufacture of stair lifts and is one of the few that make a genuine wheelchair stair lift. However, buying and installing one for a wheelchair user is far from easy. In fact, most homes are not suitable for this type of lift. So, first you must find out if your home is suitable.

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

A stair lift allows a person whether they be disabled or elderly to live a normal life within the confines of their own home. The technology that is now being used makes it much easier to install such units within their homes. However when it comes to stair lifts prices what a person actually pays for theirs will depend on a number of different factors.

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

A stair lift made for the outdoors has been invented to answer the needs of the disabled by allowing them to enjoy the beauty and fresh air of 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

Part of the process of finding a stair lift is determining which safety features and aesthetics best meets your needs. The Excel stair lift series is one of the top selling lifts in the market and it's no wonder. This home elevator has many features that stand out but there are three that sometimes get glossed over.

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.

Improve Your Mobility At Home

When we think of lifts, we tend to think of the more grandiose elevators that adorn posh hotels and shopping malls. These are a convenience, because let's face it, who wants to walk up 10 flights of stairs to your hotel room?

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

When buying a stair lift many are told that self-installation is straightforward and can be safely carried out by anyone with basic DIY skills. The supply of mobility goods via the internet has fueled this perception. However, there are many reasons why one should never be self-installed.

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

The installation of a home stair lift has greatly improved the lives of hundreds of thousands of people with mobility problem. Until now, many handicapped or disabled people were having to vacate their homes and move to a single storey house, or having to pay expensive home help care. But, the cost of a stair lift is small in comparison and also gives them back something that is priceless: independence.

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.