Top Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Chair Lift
Buying a chair lift for your home is a big decision. It’s not just about convenience, but about safety, independence, and long-term comfort. A chair lift is often a once-in-a-lifetime investment, and choosing the wrong one can lead to higher costs, safety concerns, or poor usability.
After helping hundreds of homeowners and families find the right stair and chair lift solutions, we’ve seen some common mistakes people make during the buying process. Here are the top mistakes to avoid when buying a chair lift.
Focusing Only on Price
One of the most common mistakes is selecting a chair lift purely based on price. While a low-cost model might look attractive upfront, it may not provide the durability, features, or support you’ll need over the long term.
In fact, cheaper lifts often lead to higher repair bills, shorter lifespans, and limited safety technology. The best approach is to balance affordability with quality. A reliable supplier should help you understand the true cost of ownership, including warranty coverage, servicing, and potential upgrades.
Not Considering Staircase Type
Not every lift fits every staircase. Straight stairs, curved stairs, and narrow stairs all require different solutions. Always have your staircase assessed before deciding.
Overlooking Weight Capacity and Comfort
Another easily overlooked factor is the weight capacity of the chair lift. Buying a model that doesn’t meet the user’s needs can compromise both comfort and safety. Beyond weight limits, small details such as seat width, footrest design, and swivel options can make a huge difference in daily use.
Whenever possible, test a chair lift before making a purchase so you can be confident it’s comfortable and practical for the person using it.
Ignoring Safety Features
Safety should be a top priority when choosing any mobility aid, yet many buyers assume all lifts have the same protections. Essential features to look for include:
- a seatbelt or secure harness,
- sensors that stop the lift if an obstacle is detected,
- an emergency stop function, and
- battery backup to keep the lift operational during power outages.
Forgetting About Future Needs
Warranties vary, and ongoing servicing is essential. Look for at least two years of coverage and make sure local support is available.
Skipping Professional Installation
Improper installation can be unsafe and may void warranties. Certified installers ensure the lift is secure, aligned, and compliant with safety standards.
Final Thoughts
A chair lift should bring peace of mind, not problems. By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll choose a lift that’s safe, reliable, and built to last. If you need expert guidance, our team can assess your home, explain your options, and recommend the right solution.
Over 1000 Stairlifts Installed In GTA
Mark & the team have installed over 1000 Stairlifts, so you can count on us to do the job right. We understand the difficulty of this transition, so we go the extra mile to show that we care. Always transparent about our process and pricing, we’re here to answer any questions about your new mobility solution.
