April 2024
This article provides a comprehensive guide to purchasing cheap and affordable stairlifts in the UK, focusing on second-hand and budget-friendly options available in February 2024. The article will help you do the following –
1 – Understand the importance of considering second-hand and cheap stairlifts as a viable option for enhancing mobility.
2 – Learn about the key factors to consider when selecting a stairlift, including safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
3 – Discover the main topics covered, such as the benefits of reconditioned stairlifts, tips for selecting budget stairlifts, and available funding options.
4 – Recognise the benefits of understanding these topics, which include making informed decisions and potentially saving money while ensuring safety and comfort.
5 – Take post-reading actions, such as evaluating your needs, researching reputable providers, and considering financial assistance options.
1 – Reconditioned stairlifts can offer excellent value for money, but it’s crucial to ensure they have been properly serviced and come with a warranty.
2 – The cost of affordable stairlifts varies based on several factors, including installation and maintenance, highlighting the need for comprehensive cost analysis.
3 – Safety and comfort features are paramount in cheap stairlifts, which should not be compromised for the price.
4 – Budget stairlifts are suitable not only for seniors but also for individuals with disabilities or those recovering from surgery, supporting independence in multi-storey homes.
5 – When selecting a stairlift, consider all associated costs, including installation, maintenance, and potential repairs, to ensure a cost-effective purchase.
6 – Financial aid, such as the Disabled Facilities Grant and VAT exemptions, may be available to help cover the cost of stairlifts for eligible individuals.
7 – Renting a stairlift could be a viable option for those with temporary mobility issues, offering a flexible and potentially more affordable solution.
Reconditioned stairlifts can provide excellent value for money, but it’s important to check that they have been serviced properly and still offer key safety features. Always confirm the warranty period when purchasing a reconditioned model and check the installers’ credentials.
Cheap stairlifts from reputable companies are reliable and safe, as they will have been tested thoroughly and repaired before sale. In addition, it is worth noting that the age of the cheap stairlift doesn’t necessarily impact its quality, as many models are built to last.
Affordable stairlifts can vary in price depending on several factors, such as installation costs and maintenance. For example, a reconditioned stairlift may be cheaper, but the overall cost may be higher if it needs frequent servicing.
Although some stairlifts are cheaper than others, this doesn’t mean they lack features. Many cheap stairlifts have various features to ensure user safety and comfort, such as safety sensors, remote controls for easy operation, and a comfortable seat to support the user.
Stairlifts are often used by the elderly. While stairlifts can be particularly helpful for many older individuals, they are also helpful for those living with a disability or recovering from an operation or motor vehicle accident.
Stairlifts are particularly beneficial for those who want to maintain independence and ease of living while living in multi-storey homes.
Selecting the appropriate stairlift ensures comfort, safety, and functionality within your home. This decision primarily hinges on the layout of your staircase and your specific mobility needs.
When determining the type of stairlift that best suits your requirements, the first factor to consider is the configuration of your staircase.
Ideal for staircases that ascend in a straight line without turns, landings, or curves. These models are generally more cost-effective and easier to install due to their straightforward design.
Necessary for staircases with bends, turns, or changes in direction. Curved stairlifts require custom-made rails to fit the exact shape of your staircase, making them a more expensive option. However, they offer a tailored solution that ensures a smooth and secure ride.
Beyond the physical layout of your staircase, your personal mobility requirements play a significant role in selecting the right stairlift. Consider the following:
Choose a seat that provides adequate support and comfort, especially if you have specific posture needs or if the stairlift will be used frequently throughout the day.
Opt for a stairlift with easy-to-use controls if you have limited dexterity. Many models offer joystick or button controls that can be operated effortlessly.
Safety sensors, seat belts, and swivel seats are essential features that ensure your stairlift is safe and convenient.
Professional advice and customisation options can make a substantial difference in a decision as significant as installing a stairlift. Engaging with a reputable provider allows for a personalised assessment of your home and mobility needs, ensuring the stairlift you choose is perfectly suited to your environment.
Considering these factors, you can decide on the right stairlift for your home, enhancing your independence and quality of life.
Below is a comparison of the most popular straight stairlift models available in the UK and a breakdown of their key features.
Model | Acorn 130 Straight Stairlift | Handicare 1100 Straight Stairlift | Stannah Starla 600 | Bruno’s Elite Indoor Straight |
Weight Capacity | 159kg | 140kg | 136kg | 182kg |
Power Swivel Seat? | Yes | Yes | Yes, and customisable with safety sensors | Yes |
Minimum Staircase Width | 26″ | 21″ | 28″ | 27″ |
Fold-Up Width | 310mm | 320mm | 340mm | 386mm |
Type of Rail | Aluminium single rail | Friction rail system with drive rollers | Slim-line rail | Vertical rail with covered gear rack |
Price (approx.) | From £2,000 | From £2,200 | From £2,200 | From £2,800 |
Average Speed | 12cm per second | 15cm per second | Not Specified | Not Specified |
Max Rail Length | 30m | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified |
Space Between Armrests | 44.5 cm | 45cm | 48cm | 55cm |
Warranty | 1 Years | 3 Years | 2 Years | 2 Years |
Speak To An Acorn Straight Stairlift Specialist Today
This is the easiest and cheapest type of staircase to install a stairlift on. However, if your staircase is narrow, you may want to consider compact stairlift models.
This type of staircase may present a problem if the user needs help managing the final step. A bridging platform may help, however, they are not a particularly popular option today due to health and safety concerns. A curved stairlift may be necessary in this case.
Stairs with a fan turn will require a curved stairlift to navigate the 45-degree angle
Split staircases require either two straight stairlifts or a curved stairlift. The most cost-effective option will depend on your installation company and the length of your staircases. It’s important to note a user will have to dismount the stairlift twice if you install two straight stairlifts, which may cause them discomfort.
It can be possible to apply for sources of extra cash to cover the cost of cheap stair lifts. If you’re on a budget, consider looking into these funding options:
1 – The Disabled Facilities Grant.
2 – Assistance from local authorities.
3 – Referrals to charities from your occupational therapist or health and social workers.
4 – More specialist charities like the Edward Gostling Foundation.
5 – You may be eligible for 0% VAT if you suffer from any conditions that leave you chronically sick or disabled and the stairlift is for personal or domestic use.
If you buy from a reputable company, a used stairlift has many of the advantages of a new stairlift and is often quite a bit cheaper.
1 – Used and second-hand chair lifts often come directly from manufacturers, so you know the full history of what you are buying, and the product will have been tested by engineers and experts.
2 – Many stairlift companies stock replacement parts to help keep the cost of maintaining your stairlift in good working order.
3 – There is often the option to customise second hand stairlifts with unique features so that the stairlift will fit your stairs safely and comfortably.
4 – If you purchase a second hand stairlift from a reputable company, you can have confidence in its quality, providing invaluable peace of mind.
Purchasing a second-hand stairlift offers significant advantages, primarily in terms of cost-effectiveness. Users can save substantially compared to the price of new models without compromising on quality.
Second-hand stairlifts from reputable suppliers also come with assurances of thorough testing and refurbishment, ensuring they meet high safety and functionality standards.
Reusing a stairlift not only makes stairlifts more accessible but also contributes positively to environmental sustainability by extending the product’s lifecycle.
Though you should not assume that a used stairlift is any less safe or functional than a new one, you may encounter some important issues to consider before purchasing.
1 – There may be maintenance issues if the model you purchase is not in production anymore because it will then be expensive to find replacement components if required. Even worse, if the footplate or batteries of your stairlift- for example- malfunction and need replacing but cannot be found anywhere, your expensive piece of mobility equipment will be rendered useless!
2 – It may be difficult to find a used or reconditioned option that will fit your staircase if your stairs are unique. You may have to look at new bespoke options if this is true.
3 – There may be a more limited warranty if something goes wrong.
There are numerous considerations when buying a reconditioned stairlift –
1 – Whether the stairlift meets the same safety standards as a new stairlift
2 – The warranty time and whether servicing is included
3 – Whether it can be fitted to a curved staircase
4 – The age of the stairlift
5 – Whether the stairlift’s full history is available
6 – If support services are available
Curved stairlifts are a fantastic solution for homes with curved or spiral staircases. Unlike straight stairlifts, curved models are custom-made to fit the unique shape of their staircase. This is due to their bespoke nature.
Choosing a curved stairlift means staying safe and maintaining your independence, regardless of whether your staircase is straight.
They come with all the safety features of straight models, including safety sensors, comfortable seats, and easy controls. Furthermore, the custom rail is designed to fit snugly to your staircase, ensuring the lift operates smoothly and securely.
You mustn’t overlook the potential of a second-hand stairlift, as many companies offer reconditioned curved stairlifts.
These provide an affordable option for those on a budget. Remember, they are thoroughly checked and serviced to ensure safety and reliability. This makes them a cost-effective alternative to a new model. However, always check the company or seller’s credentials before purchasing a second-hand model.
Below is a comparison of the most popular curved stairlift models in the UK and a breakdown of their key features.
Model | Acorn 180 | Handicare Freecurve | Stannah 260 Recon | Thyssen Flow 2 |
Weight Capacity | 120kg | 136kg | 120kg | 125kg |
Power Swivel Seat? | Yes | Yes, at an additional cost | Yes | Yes |
Fold-Up Width | 33.5cm | 44cm | 40cm | 34cm |
Type of Rail | Slimline Single-Rail | Single Rail | Powered Or Manual Hinged Rail | Slim Aluminium Rail |
Price (approx.) | From £4000 | £4,200 | £3,400 | From £4,195 |
Average Speed | 15cm per second | 13cm per second | 12cm per second | 15cm per second |
Max Rail Length | 30m | 35m | Not Specified | Not Specified |
Space Between Armrests | 19″ | 17″ | 20.5″ | 18″ |
Warranty | 12 Months | 2 Years | 1 year | 1 Year |
Speak To An Acorn Curved Stairlift Specialist Today
With a quarter landing turn the user can either disembark at the top of the first staircase, depending on how many steps there are, or install a curved stairlift to navigate the platform.
A quarter fan-turn is when the stairs turn 45 degrees without a platform. A curved stairlift will be necessary for these stairs.
A curved quarter fan turn is when the stairs turn 45 degrees without a platform. What distinguishes these from diagram B is that the wall also curves. These stairs require curved stairlifts.
In a half-landing turn, two straight staircases are connected by a landing platform. You can either fit two straight stairlifts, provided the landing between them is level, or a curved stairlift which traverses the wall of the landing.
In a half-fan turn, two straight staircases are connected by a 180-degree turn. These staircases require a curved stairlift.
In diagram F, three straight staircases are connected by two landings, making a 180-degree turn. These require either three straight stairlifts or a curved stairlift, which would be a costly and frustrating procedure.
In this diagram, three straight staircases are connected by two 45-degree turns. These staircases require a curved stairlift as it is unsafe to disembark a stairlift on a curved stairlift.
In diagram H, two straight staircases are connected by a 180-degree curve. These require curved stairlifts.
Diagram I demonstrates a straight staircase followed by a 270-degree turn. These require curved stairlifts.
1 – Stannah Lifts is a well-known and reputable new and used stairlift company with a wide collection of models.
2 – Handicare UK also offers a price match promise if you find the same or a similar model of a reconditioned stairlift elsewhere.
3 – Unicorn Stairlifts is a small UK-based supplier specialising in refurbished and reconditioned stairlifts.
If you buy your stair lift from a supplier, they will likely fit it into your home, and delivery will be included.
If you purchase a warranty, the business will fix your new or used stairlift if it breaks within the labour warranty period. Although it can feel like an unnecessary expense, it is wise to purchase a warranty, as otherwise, you may be saddled with unexpected costs down the line.
If you do not purchase a warranty, companies such as Acorn recommend that your stairlift be serviced every 12 months and offer a service that provides this. It is always a good idea to ensure a reputable technician services your stairlift.
If the new or used stairlift you purchase isn’t right for you and your home, you may have to think about stairlift removal. Some warranties may cover stairlift removal costs should the model you purchased not suit your home. It is a good idea to check if stairlift removal costs are included in your warranty.
1 – There will be a vast variation in the quality of used stairlifts for sale. This is why it is important to only buy from reputable stairlift companies to ensure safe results, and to steer clear of dodgy second hand options on websites such as Ebay and Gumtree.
2 – You cannot use one brand of stairlift on a track that comes with a different brand, but you can have a track cut down to fit your staircase. If this seems like a good option for you, consult the supplier, and make sure you do not approach an untrained person to modify a used stairlift you have purchased.
3 – It is easier to fit a used curved stairlift to a straight case than the other way around. Again, this procedure should only be carried out by a professional, or your stairlift may become unsafe to use.
As an alternative to second hand stairlifts, it is indeed possible to get your stairlift as part of a stairlift rental package. For example, Stannah allows you to rent your stairlift by paying monthly, and the cost includes servicing and removal.
This may be a good option if you are living with only temporary mobility problems, such as recovering from a road traffic accident, and expect to no longer need access to mobility equipment in the medium to long term.
Renting a stairlift may also be a useful option if you don’t have the financial resources to meet large upfront costs.
Some companies allow buyback of unwanted staircases, though this is not standard procedure due to the bespoke nature of fitting many stairlifts and the stringency of health and safety regulations.
You can, however, sell your stairlift privately on sites such as Gumtree or Ebay. However, you will have to either check the buyer will be able to have your stairlift removed privately, or you will have to pay for the removal of your stairlift yourself.
If you opt for private resale online, consult a tech-savvy family member if you lack experience using such sites. Consulting a family member can ensure you avoid online scamsters.
The UK Care Guide works in partnership with Acorn Stairlifts.
Here are 10 reasons why they are the best stairlift provider in the UK.
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When considering the purchase of second-hand stairlifts, understanding the warranty coverage is paramount. Warranties for these devices can vary widely, with some providers offering comprehensive parts and labour warranties extending up to a year or more. A typical warranty for a second-hand stairlift should ideally cover:
This includes any issues arising from the normal use of the stairlift, ensuring that any mechanical breakdown is promptly addressed without additional costs.
If parts of the stairlift fail due to manufacturing defects or wear and tear, the warranty should cover the cost of replacement parts. Ensuring that the second-hand stairlift has been fully serviced and certified before purchase is essential. This guarantees the stairlift’s functionality and meets the necessary safety standards.
Certification plays a critical role in purchasing second-hand stairlifts, assuring the product’s safety and reliability. When selecting a second-hand stairlift, look for certifications from reputable safety standards organizations. These certifications indicate that the stairlift has undergone rigorous testing and inspection, adhering to the current safety standards. Key points to consider include –
Look for stairlifts that have been certified by recognized safety standards organizations. These certifications are a testament to the stairlift’s quality and safety.
Certified stairlifts have been thoroughly tested and inspected to meet specific safety and performance criteria. This includes checking for potential hazards and verifying the stairlift’s operational integrity.
By focusing on warranty coverage and certification, you can ensure that the second-hand stairlift you choose is affordable but also safe and reliable. This information is crucial for making an informed purchasing decision, providing peace of mind and enhancing the quality of life for elderly users.
Regular service by qualified stairlift engineers is necessary, making it essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommended schedule for your particular stairlift model. This is usually every 6 to 12 months, ensuring that the stairlift is in good working order and identifying potential problems before they become serious.
Furthermore, cleaning the stairlift regularly is also important. This includes the seat, armrests, and footrests to ensure they remain comfortable and safe. The rail should also be kept clean and free from obstructions.
In addition, make sure that you are keeping stairlift batteries fully charged if you are relying on battery backup.
Remember to test the battery backup system regularly. You can do this by isolating power to ensure it activates as intended.
Tom is a Content Writer and Editor for UK Care Guide, having previously acted as Head of Online for the Manchester Historian, and also the former editor for The Peterloo Institute. Tom is a graduate of the University of Manchester with a BA (Hons) History degree. His particular specialisms include writing on issues relating to later life (e.g. stairlifts, live-in care) and elderly care, having previously worked in a care capacity. Meet the author
Tom Walker
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The price of a stairlift can be expensive. This articles examines the costs involved in buying a stairlift and what is involved in its installation.
Curved stairlifts are necessary where you do not have a straight staircase. In this article we look at what you need to consider if getting one.
A reconditioned stairlift can be a good balance between a new and second hand stairlift. In this article we look at what you need to look out for.
A used stairlift is a good option if you are looking to save some money. This article looks at what you need to think about if you want to buy one.
A second hand stairlift is a great cheap option if you need to be careful about what you spend. In this article we look at what you need to consider.
Buying a stairlift can be expensive. Therefore, and especially if you need it on a temporary basis, renting one could be a good option to consider.
Stairlifts range in prices. This article looks at what you need to consider if you want to buy a cheap stairlift and what it may cost you.
If you have a narrow set of stairs then you may need a specialist staircase. In this article we look at the issues involved in getting one fitted.
Equity Release is one way that you can pay for your stairlift. Use our calculator to see how much money you could receive from your home.
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