FAQ - Somerset Stairlifts Ltd

Should I move home?

You may be considering the need to move from your current home, purely due to the staircase being to difficult to manage.

A stairlift can be a much cheaper alternative than moving out of your much-loved family home to avoid giving up precious memories that you cherish.

At Somerset Stairlifts we will give you the best knowledge, advice and customer service from all of the team so that you can make sure your decision to stay, or move, is the correct decision for you.

How long do the batteries last?

The normal life span of our stairlift batteries is approximately 3 – 4 years but this all depends on how often the stairlift is used. Our 3 – 4 year estimate is based upon usage of 4 – 6 times a day.

Does my stairlift need to be serviced annualy?

We recommend that your stairlift should be serviced once every year.

This is important to keep the stairlift in perfect working order and also helps to spot problems before they arise at a later date, saving you time, hassle and money.

How much electric does my stairlift use?

Stairlifts use very little electric even though they are charging batteries.

How long does it take to install a stairlift?

The average time to fit a straight stairlift is approximately 1.5 – 2 hours depending on where the power point is located in relation to the stairs. Curved stairlifts take approximately 4 – 5 hours.

Are stairlifts fixed to the wall?

In short, no. Stairlifts fit to the stair treads – usually there are three feet and these are screwed to the treads of the stairs. This is quite a common question that we receive from many of our prospective customers.

How much room does a stairlift take up?

The average stairlift protrudes about 580mm (22 inches) depending on what stairlift you have. You will get the most room when using your staircase normally when the stairlift is folded and parked at the bottom of the stairs.

How quick can we install a stairlifts?

We can install a straight stairlift as quick as the same day of quotation if the right stairlift for you is in stock. If the stairlift is not in stock, installation would be arranged for two to three days after quotation.

Curved stairlifts can take up two to three weeks depending on how busy the manfacturer is at the time.

Is my door too close to the bottom of the stairs?

Doors at the bottom of the stairs are not a problem. We can install a manual hinge rail for a small extra cost. A manual hinge means that the bottom of the rail lifts up out of the way so that you can walk through doorways without it becoming a trip hazard.

Do i need someone to measure my stairs?

We will always come out and measure your stairs when a survey is requested. A precise measurement is compulsory in order to cut the rail to the right length.

What happens if there is a power cut?

All of our stairlifts are battery operated so they will still work if there is a power cut. The battery power should get you up and down the stairs between 8 and 10 times without being recharged.

Stairlift FAQ’s