How Long Will A Stair Lift Last?

A stair lift or chair lift should last you around 10 years, assuming no accidents and normal usage of the system. Furthermore, regular maintenance can be performed to ensure that the lifespan of the stair lift is extended. It is worth noting however that the battery has a separate lifecycle that is typically shorter than the system.

The following factors affect how long your chair lift can last:

  • Daily usage rate or workload
  • Average loads carried
  • Environment
  • Materials used in constructing the chair lift
  • Maintenance Applied

In this article, we shall discuss the various factors that affect the life cycle of your stair lift as well as its battery. We aim to give you a head start in understanding how long your investment can last.

Daily Usage Rate or Workload

On average, stair lifts are used 2 to 4 times a day. This rate is considered to be light, and the system can handle more intensive workloads. However, the higher the usage rate, the shorter the lifespan of the chair lift as wear & tear sets in quicker. As such, if you wish to realize the maximum lifespan of a stairlift, you should not exceed the above mention daily rate.

You should also bear in mind that the stair lift is not a toy or a cool gadget to be played with. If you have children, who the chair lift is not intended for, then they should be kept away from it as abusive usage of the stair lift would shorten its lifespan.

Average Loads Carried

Stair lifts are designed to account for the user’s weight, thus the individual’s mass is actually not a main factor in determining the lifespan of the system. Rather, users who bring extra loads onto the chair lift in addition to themselves create extra wear and tear. Since the stair lift was not designed to take such loads, extra strain is placed on its components.

Environment

The environment where the stair lift is installed in may also compromise its lifespan. Typically, higher temperatures place more stress on the stair lift’s components, including both electrical and mechanical parts.

The steeper the stairs, the more pressure is placed on the stair lift to transport the user either up or down the steps. While most angles of inclination will not have a large impact, for buildings with particularly steep staircases, you can expect a shorter lifecycle for the chair lift.

Materials Used

The materials used by the manufacturer of a stair lift plays an instrumental role in determining the lifecycle of the system. Currently in the industry, mobility technologies from the United Kingdom, Denmark & Sweden are reputed for using quality materials and employing excellent workmanship.

Maintenance Applied

Regular maintenance is required in order to keep reduce the amount of wear and tear suffered by the chair lift. These include simple steps as follows:

  • Lubricating and cleaning the stair lift’s track on a regular basis
  • Visually checking any mechanical moving parts such as the swivel seat or armrests for loose parts
  • Checking the lifecycle of your batteries, replacing them once their charging cycles are finished
  • Ensuring that all gears are in working condition
  • Tightening all mounting bolts

Maintenance can be carried out on a biweekly basis, while inspections can be done weekly. If you hear any strange noises or observe any strange behavior, you must stop all operation of the machine immediately. After which, you should contact your supplier for help.

Battery Life of Your Chair Lift

The battery is a critical component of a stair lift. Before you purchase any model, it is essential that you consider the specifications of the battery. In particular, if your area is prone to power outages, then having a reliable battery is critical. This would prevent the user from being stranded in the middle of a flight of stairs when the power goes out. This is particularly so if the user is alone at that period of time.

Not unlike your phone batteries, stair lift batteries also have a finite number of charge cycles. Once the cycles are used up, the battery will no longer be operational. Additionally, manufacturers often recommend that the batteries are actively used on a daily basis to allow current to flow through them. This actually helps to extend their lifespan.

Most new chair lift batteries can last for 3 years or more, depending again on the usage rate. The time period stated here is applicable for users stick to 1 to 2 rides per day. If you use the chair lift on a more intensive daily basis, then expect the battery to be finished earlier. We recommend that the batteries be replaced every 2 years.

residential stair lift at bottom

A stairlift’s battery that is not excessively used should last for about 2 years. 

Stair Lifts Are A Valuable Investment

The purchase and installation of a stair lift requires a relatively large sum to be paid at the start. While this may be a deterring factor, you should be aware of the great returns that a chair lift offers to your household.

Chair lifts grant mobility and independence to users in need of such aids. Additionally, it prevents potential further injuries from occurring. Thus, future medical costs can be circumvented. Finally, it also grants family members a ease of mind knowing that the user can safely move around his or her house.

How Tai Hee Engineering Trading Can Help

Tai Hee Engineering is one of the leading chair lift companies in Asia. Since 2006, we have been bringing the latest accessibility equipment and technology from Europe to Asia. Over the course of more than 500 private and commercial projects, we have successfully provided mobility solutions to our clients. We provide sound advice for all clients and recommend the appropriate product that best caters to their needs. Enquire about our chair lift Singapore solutions today.



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