Using A Stair Lift - Special Helpline: Freephone 0800 034 0294

Most domestic stair lifts nowadays run on direct current from rechargeable batteries housed within the stair lift itself. They have an advantage over older stairlifts that took their power from the mains since they will still function during a power cut.

Many designs of electronic control are used, according to the make and model of lift, though most are radio-controlled or employ an infrared remote control. Curved rail stairlifts require more complex control circuits, as the chair may have to tilt or travel at different speeds to negotiate bends and varied levels of incline. Indeed, microprocessors are increasingly being used to “memorise” and regulate the stairlift’s journey.

Most stairlifts travel at speeds of between 70cm and 150cm per second and tend to start slowly to avoid jolting. Safety features include cut-out switches that disconnect the power should anything be amiss and there are codes of practice by which manufacturers must abide.

Well-maintained stairlifts may provide twenty years’ service. When the time eventually comes for them to be dismantled, there will be a mix of recoverable and recyclable parts (such as aluminium) and components that may need more careful disposal (e.g. batteries).

Please look at our Frequently Asked Questions for additional information.

Please do not hesitate to contact us on Freephone 0800 034 0294 if you have any further questions.