If you live in a house with more than one story and mobility is becoming or already is an issue, choosing to have a stairlift installed could make your life a lot easier.  There are many brands, styles and models of stairlifts available, so how do you know which one is right for you?

In this simple guide to choosing the right stairlift, we’ll go over the seven most important things that you need to consider before buying a stairlift. Then, after you have a little more knowledge on the subject, we’ll show you where you can get great savings on the stairlift of your choice.

The Seven Things You Need to Consider Before Purchasing a Stairlift

Use this practical guide to choosing a stairlift to help you purchase the right one for your needs at the lowest costs:

1.  Picking the Right Company: The first thing you want to find is a reliable stairlift company that can handle your installation. Look for a company that offers a free, no-obligation survey.  This will ensure that you are dealing with professionals who know what they are doing and aren’t just out for the money. A good stairlift company should specialize in installation, repairs, servicing, rentals, extended warranties, removals, re-locating, re-fitting and much more. They should have an extensive team of engineers that make you feel comfortable when you speak with them. If possible, have more than one store to choose from so you can compare prices and service options.

2. Contact your Insurance Agent: Before you start deciding which stairlift is right for you, it’s good to know how much your out-of-pocket costs are going to be. Find out how much of the costs your health insurance will cover as well as if they provide more coverage if you purchase a reconditioned stairlift as opposed to a new one. Ask if they provide extra coverage for a curved stairlift (as these are more expensive than a straight stairlift). Also ask about rental versus buying options. Tell the insurance agent the name of the company you are choosing for the installation and make sure they are compatible.

3. Are Your Stairs Straight: Straight staircases are easier to install stairlifts upon and generally cost less money to do so. Your company should be able to complete everything from the survey to the installation within 3 to 7 days maximum. Installation itself should only take about 1-2 hours.

4. Are Your Stairs Curved: Curved staircases require an extensive survey of the site and typically take longer and cost more to install. Prices vary from model to model as does installation time, so you’ll have to contact a stairlift installation company to come and give you an estimate. Of course, there are ways you can cut down on costs, so be sure to ask if the company can modify your staircase in order to install a straight stairlift.

5. To Rent or Buy: Many stairlift installation professionals offer the option for you to rent a stairlift or buy one. Consider the costs that you will be paying out-of-pocket and calculate if they add up to more than you would pay were you to buy the unit brand new. Are you planning to stay in your home for a long time or will you be moving (perhaps to a one-story home) soon?   Do you rent or own the house you are currently living in? In the end, the choice of whether to rent or buy solely relies on which is a better monetary option for you.

6. New or Reconditioned: For those on a budget, a good way to cut down costs on the rental or purchase of a stairlift is to consider a reconditioned unit. Reconditioned stairlifts are second hand stairlifts that have been overhauled. Any missing or worn parts have been replaced. Be sure the company offers you a full-warranty for at least one year on any reconditioned stairlift.  For most curved stairlifts, keep in mind that you will likely still have to order the rail brand new as they are typically custom jobs.

7. The Actual Stairlift Chair Model: Finally, when you have decided on all of these factors, you should be presented with a list of available models, brands and options. Try to choose a stairlift chair that you feel comfortable in; most places should have models that you can try out before you buy. If décor is important to you, pick a model that is unobtrusive.

Getting the Best Deal on Stairlifts

Find a company that professionally installs stairlifts as well as stands behind all their work and promises some very special savings. Don’t struggle with stairs for one more day.

Author Bio – This article has been written by Mike Humphreys on behalf of Sterling Stairlifts, a premier UK based Stairlift Company specializing in home stairlifts, curved stairlifts etc. If you’re on the lookout for used stairlifts, second hand stairlifts or reconditioned stairlifts, do get in touch with Sterling Stairlifts today.