How long does a stairlift last?

If you are considering buying a stairlift and are trying to plan for the future – it is worth considering how long your stairlift will last before it requires replacement/removal.

The average lifespan of a stairlift is 10 years. Of course, it is very much possible that your stairlift could outlive this lifespan but from data and advice from experts, 10 years is generally the average. We have heard of stairlifts being still used 15-20 years after their installation, but it is quite rare even if the stairlift is very well looked after.

What affects the lifespan of a stairlift?

There are many factors that can affect the longevity of your stairlift and are worth considering before you consider having it installed.

New or reconditioned?

If you buy a stairlift from brand new from an installer, it undoubtedly will have a longer lifespan than a stairlift that is second hand or reconditioned. When you buy a second hand or reconditioned stairlift, you can never be sure of how old the stairlift, or the parts used to recondition it, really are. The installer may tell you the stairlift was one year old prior to being fitted for you second hand, but it is very difficult to be sure of this and it could be significantly older than you were advised.

How much is the stairlift being used?

If the stairlift is being used a lot, perhaps if the only toilet is upstairs, or if there is more than one user in the household, the stairlift will get more wear and tear. Generally, if it is maintained and looked after this won’t affect the life of the stairlift too much, but it may reduce it slightly.

Is the stairlift being serviced/maintained?

If the stairlift is not being looked after with an annual or biannual service, it is going to deteriorate far quicker and potentially stop working all together. There are several components in a stairlift that need to be maintained and the track may need to be oiled. The technician will also perform several checks to ensure the stairlift is working well and to ensure it is in good working order. If any parts have deteriorated or require replacement, they can replace them for you to extend the stairlifts use.

Misuse

If the stairlift is not being used according to the user manual this may cause the stairlift to develop a fault and break down – potentially beyond repair depending on the misuse. Although stairlifts are very simple to use, you should always consult the manual before attempting to use a stairlift for the first time and check it again frequently as a reminder.

A common issue is loads above the weight limit. Each stairlift has its own weight capacity and are designed for a single user. If the user is heavier than the weight capacity, they should not attempt to use the stairlift as this could damage it. Sometimes stairlifts are used for taking goods up and down the stairs, particularly heavy items, which is not what the stairlift is designed for.

Why would a stairlift need replacing?

Even if your stairlift remains in perfect working order, once it reaches ten years or older you may find the stairlift requires replacing, there are several reasons this might happen.

User needs have changed

When you have a stairlift installed you will have had a thorough assessment based on the needs of the user and the home environment to ensure you have a stairlift type that works for you. Our mobility needs typically change over time, especially if you are an elderly user. What you may have been capable of ten years ago may not be possible anymore. For example, you may have had amble coordination in your hands to operate the controls and pull the manual swivel leaver when you purchased your stairlift and that may now have changed, and you are no longer able to cope with these features. Upgrading to a new stairlift with more suitable features may be a better choice in the long run than struggling with the existing lift.

Technologies change

Over time stairlift technology is constantly developing and improving. If you look at stairlifts from 20 years ago such as the original Stannah stairlift models, you will notice a massive difference to the lifts that are installed today. Once your stairlift becomes older and less efficient, it may be a good idea to look at newer stairlift models that may be easier to use and more energy efficient, as well as a more modern appearance that fits in with your home décor.

Stairlift model superseded

If you purchased your model from new, it will likely be the most up to date model the company can offer that fits your user needs and the property it is being fitted to. However, over time newer models are developed and eventually your original model will cease to be manufactured as they bring in a newer type. This isn’t a problem initially, but over time if you have a stairlift that has not been manufactured for 10 years it may become difficult to get the necessary parts when the stairlift breaks down or develops a fault. If you have an old stairlift and this happens, the installer or service provider may no longer be able to fix your stairlift in an emergency and you could require a whole new stairlift to be fitted. Of course, having an outdated stairlift is not an issue if it is still working but even servicing may become difficult over time as the engineer may not have the parts required to maintain it.

Your stairlift stops working

Often it may be a simple issue such as a battery that requires replacement, but if your stairlift develops a significant fault such as requiring a new motor, the older your stairlift is the less likely they will be able to repair it. As stated above, the parts may no longer be available, or it may be more difficult to find a technician that has the knowledge and skills to repair an older stairlift. At this point a newer stairlift may be required to replace your old one.

If you require advice about getting a stairlift and have any specific questions, please reach out to our friendly team of advisors. We can provide free no obligation advice and quotes. Call us on 0800 177 7130