People, who are suffering some sort of physical disability due to natural reasons or due to age or some accidents, find it difficult to navigate between levels in their homes. It is not possible to have someone to help them up and down the stairs all the time. Besides, the individual would also feel a little hesitant in asking for help often. It is also not advisable to leave them by themselves while going up or down a stairway since an accident can happen and pose further problems. This also does not mean that the person has to stay isolated and limit himself to the ground floor. Stair lifts have been specifically developed to cater to such situations and people who find it difficult or impossible to navigate stairways. When someone is thinking about getting new stairlifts or second hand stairlifts, they should keep certain basic attributes in mind for the quality and the safety circumstances of the user.
The quality of the stairlift, determines its durability. So, whether you are buying reconditioned stairlifts or secondhand stairlift, pay attention to its quality and condition. Stairlifts can last for 10 years or more with proper maintenance so buying a second hand one is also a good idea. Simply have it given a thorough overhaul by a certified mechanic and it will work like for new for years.
When buying
second hand stairlifts, it is always advisable to have a knowledgeable technician accompanying you to check the mechanical aspects of the lift and also the electricals. One has to specifically check the condition of the switches, the battery (if it is a DC lift), the motor, the gears and above all the safety features which should work perfectly.
Reconditioned stairlifts are as good as the new stair lifts. Companies provide guarantee for the lifts. They are also modified to fit the staircases. The installation is different than the previous, with the track measurement made in such a way that in normally fits to the length and it is good as new.
Recon stairlift are good for curved rail as it has to be accurate for the user and it is very critical to customize them with utmost preciseness. There are different fabrication methods available. One can even buy such reconditioned stairlifts with 12 month warranty.
Straight stairlifts and vertical stairlifts can be bought second hand at bargain prices and will work with minimum modifications and just some minor maintenance work. On the other hand if you are considering stairlifts for a curved stairway, you would need to have the entire railing made anew to accommodate the stair lift. This may be an expensive affair. Compare the cost of a new stairlift with an old one plus cost of railing and see if it works out. Second hand stairlift will be in good condition if used sparingly by a single infirm person. If it has been used by one and all in the family, especially kids, then there will be a lot of wear and tear. Check on this point.
Stair lifts can also be customised as per the need. One can put definite basic safety standards such as the DC operations, limit sensors, on/off lockable switch, safe braking systems, smooth stop and start motion, etc. A battery operated stair lift is compact but the downside is that the battery needs to be kept charged all the time, needs maintenance and replacement after 3 years or so. On the other hand AC operated stair lifts are free of such problems and are equally easy to operate. In addition, there are fewer maintenance calls. The only problem is that the stair lift cannot be operated in case of power failures. Using information contained in this article, you can buy a second hand stairlift easily.
