A stairlift can enhance accessibility and improve quality of life, which is why it is so important to take proper care of it. First, make sure to only allow a qualified technician to install, repair, or service your stairlift, and follow some simple tips to keep your stairlift working flawlessly for years to come.
Experts report that around one in every four adults sustains a fall each year. Most of these accidents occur in the individual’s own home. Mobility aids, such as a stairlift, can help reduce the risk of a nasty and injurious fall, enhancing accessibility and increasing safety daily. For this reason, it is integral to keep your lift working smoothly, but how do you do this?
Keep your stairlift working flawlessly with these tips:
Refer to the Manual
Don’t forget to refer to the owner’s manual for your lift if ever you have a question or concern. It is important to familiarize yourself with your new mobility equipment- everything you need to know is included in this useful guide. As always, you should only operate and use the lift as recommended by the manufacturer; this information will be clearly outlined in the owner’s manual included with your new stairlift. When in doubt, refer to the manual!
Heed the Weight Limit
Typically, a stairlift has a weight limit of 300 pounds; make sure to heed this to ensure your lift works smoothly. Some lifts do have a higher weight limit- like bariatric lifts- so refer to your owner’s manual to find out the weight restriction for your distinct model. Do not carry kids, animals, heavy objects, or additional people on the lift as you could unknowingly exceed the weight limit and cause damage to your equipment.
Use the Safety Belt
When you look over your new stairlift, you will notice the safety belt that looks like a seat belt that you would find in a vehicle. Did you know that most stairlift accidents occur due to the user not wearing this safety belt? Even though you are familiar with and adept at using the lift, always make a practice of securing the belt to prevent incidents and possible injuries. Buckle up for safety.
Keep Kids and Pets Away
Kids will want to play near, on, and around the lift. These devices can be very tempting to young children. Furthermore, pets may come in contact with the lift, sniffing around to check it out. Reinforce and repeat that stairlifts are not for kids or pets and deter them from playing on them. Still struggling with keeping kids away from your stairlift? Ask your retailer about a key lock that will prevent them from being able to turn it on and use the lift.
Watch for Obstacles
Keep the stairs and steps clear and obstacle-free as much as possible. Most lifts operate with sensors that will detect and stop when an object is in its path. Keeping a clutter-free path helps ensure the smooth operation of your device. Also, avoid using the lift at the same time as someone is using the stairway, as you need a clear berth to ascend and descend safely. Fold in the stairlift seat when not in use to create a wider path for those who use the stairs, too.
Be Wary with Liquids
If there is one thing that can do irreversible damage to your new lift, it is liquids. Liquids, even plain water, can wreak havoc with the mechanics of your stairlift, potentially rendering it inoperable. For this reason, avoid carrying uncovered food or drinks on the lift whenever possible. The liquid can damage your equipment, and if it is a hot drink, it can also burn and injure you at the same time. If you must transport open beverages or containers from one level of the home to the next, ask someone for assistance and preserve your stairlift.
Enlist Professionals for Service and Support
Another tip to preserve the condition and operation of your stairlift is to only allow a qualified technician to install, service, or repair your lift. Also, never allow anyone to make changes to the lift that are not endorsed by the manufacturer, as this could make your equipment warranty null and void. It makes the most sense to purchase lifts from legitimate and reliable retailers that will provide support to you after the sale, rather than trying to save a few bucks by buying used from a third-party seller. Again, only reach out to mobility professionals for service and support to protect your warranty and your new lift!
For quality mobility aids in Southern California, including stairlifts, call on the team at Pacific Mobility. We offer brand-name mobility aids, including Bruno stairlifts, to our clients looking for autonomy and accessibility. We look forward to assisting you; call or visit today!
President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.
24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)