Stairlift Maintenance: Essential Tips to keep it running Smoothly
Stairlifts are an essential mobility adaptation in the lives of many people who rely on them to stay independent and enjoy their homes. Like all machinery, stairlifts need to be maintained to help them remain safe and effective, and prevent breakdowns.
This blog post will explain the key information about stairlift maintenance, with tips and advice about how to achieve this.
Professional Assistance
If for any reason your stairlift is not functioning as it once was & the reason for its decline in performance is unclear, You should contact a professional company to come and have a look at it. Doing this will make sure that there isn’t the chance of further accidental damage to the stairlift whilst an inspection is carried out.
Understanding Your Stairlift
Before we get to the maintenance tips, it is important that you know the model of the stairlift you have installed. Different models would have many similarities with each other but they would have differences as well in their features, maintenance requirements and troubleshooting steps.
To know whether they need you to wear a seatbelt, for instance, or roll up the arm rest before starting, your stairlift likely has a user manual. Read it closely.
Regular Cleaning
Your stair lift can’t perform well if it’s not properly cleaned. Due to the accumulation of dust, debris, and particles, the track and the mechanical components might experience blockages, wear and tear. There are a few steps to keep your stair lift functioning in good shape:
Track Cleaning
Dust and other debris can interfere with track, so wipe the track with a clean dry cloth or vacuum with a brush attachment. Do not attempt to wet the track by spraying water or using other liquid cleaners.
Seat and carriage clean
Wipe down the seat, arm rest and carriage with water/soap solution and a damp cloth. You may only use the mild soap or detergents but make sure that you dry any surfaces before use to eliminate slips and avoid moisture damage.
Lubrication
Because the stair lift rides on the track, it’s important to keep it lubricated for smooth operation and to reduce friction among moving parts. A heavier-duty, synthetic lube may be necessary if you live in a hot, dry climate. But be sure to use only the type specified by the manufacturer, which should repel dust instead of sticking it on. Apply a light application every few months to the track and all moving parts in the track, top arm and footrest. Check the user manual for recommendations specific to your stairlift.
Battery Maintenance
Many stairlifts operate on batteries to ensure they can still function during a power outage. To keep your stairlift’s battery in good condition, here are a few tips:
- Regular Use: Frequent use helps prevent the battery from becoming stagnant.
- Charge Maintenance: Ensure the stairlift is parked at its charging station when not in use so the battery remains charged.
- Battery Checks: Periodically check the battery level (if your model has a battery indicator) and be mindful of any significant changes in performance that might indicate battery issues.
It is important for stairlift owners to not only perform regular cleaning and basic maintenance but also to have their lift inspected and serviced by a certified technician at least once a year. During the inspection, the technician will perform a comprehensive check of all mechanical and electrical components, identify and fix any potential issues before they become major problems, and update the owner on any improvements or modifications that can enhance the stairlifts performance and safety.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
It is important to know how to troubleshoot common issues that may arise with your stair lift. This can save you time and prevent the need for an emergency service call. Common problems include the stair lift not moving or making unusual noises. Many issues can be resolved by checking for obstructions on the track, ensuring that the lift is properly docked in the charging station, and resetting the stair lift according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Safety First
It is important to always prioritize safety when performing any maintenance on your stair lift. Before conducting any cleaning or maintenance tasks that require you to be close to the lift’s mechanical components, make sure to turn off the power. Additionally, never attempt to repair or replace parts unless you are confident in your ability to do so safely and correctly. If you are unsure or have any doubts, it is best to contact a professional to ensure that the task is completed safely.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your stairlift remains in top condition and provides reliable and safe operation for years to come. By following these maintenance tips, you can help prevent breakdowns, extend the lifespan of your lift, and ensure a smooth ride every time. Remember, when it comes to stairlift maintenance, a little effort goes a long way in ensuring your mobility and independence within your home.
If you are unable to carry out any of the covered maintenance on your own, you can contact Senior Stairlifts to help with maintaining your stairlift to allow for extended reliability with your lift.