Why it’s Important to have a Stairlift Warranty?

A modern stairlift is a complex machine, with a range of mechanical and electronic components. That's why you should definitely consider ongoing care. Like any other machine, they benefit from routine maintenance and servicing to keep them in good working order.

When choosing a stairlift there are many aspects to think about, but one thing you should definitely consider is the ongoing care and maintenance to protect your investment.  A modern stairlift is a complex machine, with a range of mechanical and electronic components and moving parts. While stairlifts are generally reliable, like any machine they benefit from routine maintenance and servicing to keep them in good working order. They also have parts that will eventually need to be replaced, such as the rechargeable battery packs which power most stairlifts.  

If you or a loved one will rely on the stairlift, then there must be a safety net in place in case something goes wrong with it. How will you cope if it stops working? You need the peace of mind that comes from knowing an emergency stairlift repair will be quickly and expertly carried out. Here are some things to consider:  

New stairlifts, and some reconditioned ones, come with a warranty or guarantee from the manufacturer or, in some cases, the retailer. It’s important to understand what’s covered by the warranty and how long it lasts.   

If buying a brand new stairlift, look for one supplied with a comprehensive warranty. This typically covers the costs of any and all callouts, repairs, parts, and labor for a set period. It should last for at least 12 months, although some suppliers offer longer warranties as an incentive to buy their products. The type of warranty you get might vary depending on whether you buy your stairlift direct from the manufacturer or through a mobility retailer. Buying direct from a manufacturer should ensure you have direct access to genuine replacement parts that can be supplied and fitted quickly and efficiently.  

Some manufacturers employ their own network of skilled and experienced stairlift engineers. They not only install new stairlifts but to carry out all routine maintenance and repairs for their customers. This brings the reassurance that any repairs will be professionally undertaken by someone who knows the product well. As well as has direct access to genuine parts from the manufacturer. Another question to ask is how quickly will a repair be carried out, and can you call on the service at any time? Look for a supplier with a proven track record of prompt and efficient after-sales service. The best ones usually are available to its customers 365 days-a-year.  

The next question is what happens after the warranty supplied with your stairlift runs out? Most manufacturer or retailer warranties expire after one or two years. However, the stairlift should last for many more years with proper care and maintenance. That’s why you should look for a supplier that offers ‘extended warranties’ and/or ‘annual service agreements’.  An extended warranty, as its name suggests, extends the period for which the warranty covers the stairlift against any fault. Some suppliers offer the option of an extended warranty at the point of purchase. It may appear like an extra cost at first, but it keeps your stairlift covered against any defect for a longer period.  

In other cases, a new warranty or an annual service agreement might be offered after the original warranty runs out. Again, this is an extra cost which you should be aware of when buying the stairlift. Some suppliers will offer different levels of cover at different price points. For example, a basic agreement might only cover the cost of an annual service for your stairlift. This should keep it in good working order, but any replacement parts or other emergency callouts will need to be paid for at extra cost. A premium agreement might cover the cost of all callouts, parts, and labor. As well as the annual service, but obviously, this higher level of cover will cost more.  

Speak to your chosen stairlift supplier about what type of warranty is supplied with the product, what level of cover is available after the warranty expires, who will do the work, and how much it will cost. An extended warranty or annual service agreement might be an extra cost you hadn’t previously considered. It’s usually the most cost-effective way to cover stairlift maintenance costs. Provides you the best way to protect your investment by keeping it in good condition.