Stairlift Concerns You Can Take Care of Yourself

Got concerns about maintaining your stairlift? There are numerous things that you can take care of yourself that contribute to the performance and longevity of your mobility aid. Talk to your vendor- and review the manufacturer recommendations- for more suggestions specific to the brand and model that you use or own.

You should only allow a qualified technician to work on, repair, install, or modify your stairlift, but there are some basic maintenance tasks that you can conduct- on your own- to protect and maintain your mobility aids, specifically, your stairlift. Plan on regular inspections and service visits for any new lift in order to ensure it performs optimally for years to come.

What is the Point?

So, what is the point and purpose of cleaning a stairlift? Basically, keeping your device clean and clear ensures that it operates well for years- it helps with the longevity of the device. In today’s era, it also makes sense to decontaminate and clean the lift regularly, if only to remove germs and bacteria such as COVID-19.

There is a Right Way to Clean a Lift

There is a right and wrong way to clean and disinfect your stairlift; first, you should regularly wipe down the device with a damp cloth, followed by a wipe down with a bleach-and-water solution. When dust builds up, it can interfere with the sensors and operation of your lift. Cleaning is a simple and effective way to maintain the investment that you have made in your stairlift.

Watch out for abrasive or toxic solvents when cleaning your lift, too. Use water and a soft cloth, as well as the bleach solution, but always refer to the manufacturer’s recommended cleaners typically outlined in the owner’s manual. Also, never mix or combine cleaning agents!

Keep the Rail Clean and Clear

Vacuum and wipe the rails to keep them free of debris, dust, and pet dander- all that can cause interruption and interference with your device. Over time, even a thin layer of dust can become compacted and stuck, causing problems with your lift and transport. Nobody wants to deal with this issue- keep it clean and clear, instead. Ask caregivers to assist in cleaning and dusting the rail and track regularly, like weekly, to ensure a smooth ride.  

Perform Basic Tasks to Improve Performance

Still wondering what you can do to preserve and maintain your stairlift? Consider some other tasks that you can do with the assistance of your mobility aid technician, owner’s manual, or online supports. These are routine tasks that contribute to the overall performance of your lift:

• The track should be lubricated every few months to prevent problems with free movement.  
• Avoid using solutions, solvents, and detergents that are harsh and damaging.
• Only use a lubricant that has been approved and recommended by the device’s manufacturer.
• Check the moving parts of your lift, like the swivel seat, arms, footrest and cable, to make sure they don’t wobble or are not loose.  
• Does the seat’s locking mechanism work securely? The seat’s swivel should be lubricated once to twice a year.
• Sprinkle the indoor trailing cables lightly with talcum powder; outdoor trailing cables should be sprayed with silicone periodically.
• Keep the battery completely charged and have a spare on-hand when possible. The battery in your lift is usually recommended to be replaced every year, possibly two years depending on usage. Prevent moisture from damaging the charger by keeping it in a dry, cool location between uses.  
• Tighten and evaluate any bolts or screws to make sure they are secure and mounted.  

Also, make a point to inspect the device, particularly the wheels and track, to see that they are working well and smoothly, without cracks or visible damage. Replace wheels that do not seem to be moving freely; call your mobility vendor for support and service.

Steer Away Kids, Clutter, and Pets

Perhaps one of the most important things that you can do to preserve and protect your lift is to keep clutter, pets, and kids away from it. This is not a toy, and should never be used by children, two riders, or be piled high with belongings or clutter. Keep things off the stairs and away from the track, too.

Schedule regular stairlift maintenance to ensure that your lift is working well and has no issues. Typically, the retailer offers maintenance contracts, though some vendors- like Pacific Mobility– offer service and support for all the lifts that they sell. Call and speak to a representative to learn more.  

Got more questions regarding the care, operation, or maintenance of your stairlift? Talk to the experts at Pacific Mobility today. For over 60 years, Pacific Mobility has provided consumers with top of the line mobility devices and equipment across Southern California. We look forward to helping you, too!