Keep Your Lift Running Smoothly with These Stairlift Maintenance Tips

As you get older, moving around the house can feel a bit harder, especially when it comes to stairs. A stairlift makes things easier, giving you the freedom to move safely between floors and maintain independence in your home. Like any essential piece of equipment, a stairlift needs regular care to stay in top condition. A little upkeep goes a long way in preventing issues, ensuring smooth operation, and extending its lifespan.

Ways to Maintain and Care for Your Stairlifts

Keep It Clean

Dust and dirt can build up on the track and moving parts. A quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth once a week keeps things smooth. If there’s grime, use a damp cloth with mild soap—just be sure not to get any electrical parts wet. Avoid strong cleaners, as they might damage the material.

Check the Batteries

Most stairlifts run on rechargeable batteries. If your stairlift moves slower than usual or stops unexpectedly, the batteries might need replacing. Battery life usually lasts a few years, but keeping an eye on performance helps you catch problems early. Maintain the battery of your stairlift with these maintenance tips:

• Keep your stairlift plugged in when not in use so the battery stays charged.
• If you notice a beeping sound, it may be a low-battery warning.
• Call a professional if the battery needs replacing to ensure your safety.

Inspect the Track

The track is what helps your stairlift glide smoothly. Dust, hair, or small objects can get stuck, causing bumps or jerky movement. Check the track once a week for anything that shouldn’t be there. A clean track makes for a smoother ride.

Listen for Unusual Noises

Your stairlift should be quiet and smooth. If you hear strange sounds like grinding or clicking, then something may be loose. A quick check can help catch small issues before they turn into big repairs. If you want to prolong your stairlift, follow these easy guidelines:

• Stop using the stairlift if the noise doesn’t go away.
• Check for anything stuck in the track.
• If the problem continues, call a technician.

Test the Safety Features

Your stairlift has built-in safety features, like seat belts and sensors that stop the lift if something is in the way. Every so often, test these features to make sure they work properly.

Simple Safety Checks:

• Buckle and unbuckle the seat belt to make sure it latches.
• Place a small object on the track to see if the sensors stop the lift.
• If a safety feature isn’t working, call for stairlift repair services right away.

Schedule Regular Servicing

Even with good care, your stairlift needs a professional check-up now and then. Most manufacturers suggest a stairlift maintenance service at least once a year. A technician will inspect the motor, track, and all the moving parts to keep your lift in top shape.

Avoid Excess Weight

Every stairlift has a weight limit. Both straight stairlifts and curved stairlifts, for instance, are built to handle a specific amount, and exceeding it can strain the motor and cause damage over time. If multiple people use the stairlift, remind everyone to check the weight guidelines to keep it running safely and smoothly.

Keep the Remote Handy

If your stairlift comes with a remote, it’s a good idea to keep it in a safe and easy-to-reach spot. Placing it on a nearby table or in a drawer or using a wall-mounted holder can help prevent it from getting lost or misplaced. Since the remote controls the lift, misplacing it can be frustrating, and replacing it can be costly. 

Keeping it in good condition also means checking the batteries now and then to ensure it works when you need it. 

When to Call a Professional

Regular cleaning and small checks help keep your stairlift in good shape, but some problems need expert attention. Ignoring minor issues can lead to bigger repairs down the road, so it’s best to contact a technician for expert stairlift maintenance and repair services if you notice any of the following:

• The stairlift moves slower than normal: If it feels sluggish, the battery or motor might need servicing.
• There are warning beeps or flashing lights: These signals often mean something needs fixing, like a low battery or an internal issue.
• The seat or armrests feel loose: Stability is key for safety. If anything wobbles or shifts, it should be tightened or repaired.
• The lift stops suddenly during use: This could be a sign of an electrical or mechanical problem that needs professional attention.

Key Takeaways

Taking care of your stairlift doesn’t have to be hard. A little cleaning, battery care, and regular check-ups will keep it running smoothly for years. If you ever notice something unusual, don’t wait before getting a stairlift repair service. Addressing small issues early can prevent bigger problems (and costly fixes) in the future.

If you need repairs or professional servicing in Utah, schedule a free evaluation with our team to keep your lift in top shape.

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