Getting older comes with plenty of perks. You get senior discounts at the movies, people offer you their seat on the bus, and you finally have time to perfect your golf swing—or your knitting, no judgment here. But sometimes, the stairs in your own home start looking a little less like a simple way to get to bed and a little more like Mount Everest.
If you’re thinking about getting a stairlift, you’re making a smart move. It’s all about keeping your independence and staying in the home you love. But before you invite a technician over to start drilling, you need to arm yourself with the right questions. Think of it like buying a car—you wouldn’t just hand over the cash without checking under the hood, right? These are the questions to ask before a stairlift installation.
Will This Thing Actually Fit My Stairs?
This seems obvious, but stairs are like snowflakes—no two are exactly alike. You might have a straight staircase that goes right up to the second floor, or maybe yours has a landing, a curve, or a tight squeeze at the top.
Ask the installer if they have specific models for your layout. Straight stairlifts are usually cheaper and easier to install, while curved ones need custom rails. You don’t want to fall in love with a model only to find out it won’t hug your corners properly.
What Safety Features Does It Have?
We’re going for a smooth ride, not a rollercoaster. Safety is the top priority here. You want to make sure the lift stops automatically if something blocks the track (like the cat, or a dropped slipper).
Ask about seatbelts, swivel seats that make getting on and off easier, and sensors that detect obstructions. A swivel seat is superior because it turns you away from the stairs when you reach the top so that you can step off safely onto the landing rather than awkwardly shimmying sideways.
How Much Power Does It Use?
Nobody wants a surprise on their electric bill. Most modern stairlifts are pretty energy-efficient, but it’s worth asking about. Also, ask what happens if the power goes out. Most units charge continuously while parked, so they have battery backups. This means you won’t get stuck halfway up the stairs during a thunderstorm.
What Is the Warranty and Service Plan?
Machines break. It’s a fact of life. You need to know who to call when things go sideways (literally or figuratively).
- How long does the warranty last?
- Does it cover parts and labor?
- Is there a 24/7 helpline if the lift stops working on a Sunday night?
- How much is an annual service visit?
Getting these answers upfront saves you from a headache later.
How Quickly Can You Install It?
Sometimes you need a lift yesterday. Maybe you’re recovering from surgery, or maybe your knees just decided they’ve had enough. Ask for a realistic timeline. Knowing what you can expect during a stairlift installation helps you plan your day. Straight lifts often take just a few hours to install, while custom curved rails might take weeks to manufacture and fit.
Asking these questions puts you in the driver’s seat of the installation. A stairlift is a big purchase, but it’s an investment in your freedom. Once you get the answers you need, you can look forward to gliding up and down your stairs with ease. No more huffing and puffing—just a smooth, easy ride to the top.
