Best Stair Lift Companies

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    4.8(1,437)
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    4.7(209)
  • Arrow Lift
    4.9(123)

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Best Stair Lift Companies

Stair lifts are a great option for older adults or those with mobility issues looking to make their two-story home more accessible. Choosing the right stair lift can greatly improve both safety and convenience in your home.

The ConsumerAffairs Research Team vetted 16 stair lift companies that are rated by more than 4,300 customers. Read our guide to choose the best stair lift company by comparing features, costs and customer experiences.

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Stair lift buyers guide

If you have had a recent health concern or surgery, or you’re just getting older, you may find yourself with a balance or mobility issue that limits your ability to get up and down your stairs. Stair lifts can help you continue to live independently in your home.

In this guide, learn about how stair lifts work, their features and how to choose the best stair lift for your needs.

Key insights

  • Stair lifts come in different types and sizes, with add-on features available.
  • Consult with a trained stair lift technician who has installation experience to ensure that the system is installed correctly and all safety features are operating properly.
  • Stair lifts may seem expensive, but compared to the costs of moving to a more accessibility-friendly home or remodeling, installing one is the least pricey option.

What are stair lifts?

A stair lift is a motorized device that rides along a staircase to help you go up and down the stairs securely. If you have mobility concerns, a stair lift can help you navigate your home safely and avoid dangerous falls. A stair lift contains a seat, armrests and footrests, and some models let you fold these away when they’re not in use.

Anyone whose balance might be compromised by neurological, physical or even psychological reasons could benefit from a stair lift.”
— Jerilyn Callen, clinical associate professor of occupational therapy at Baylor University

A stair lift is usually controlled by a joystick or buttons and is installed on a track with one or two rails. Some models include a hinged track that folds away for narrow staircases.

There are different types of stair lifts available, including straight stair lifts, curved stair lifts, outdoor stair lifts, wheelchair stair lifts and standing stair lifts.

Who benefits from a stair lift?

Older adults who experience difficulty with their balance could benefit from stair lifts.

“Anyone whose balance might be compromised by neurological, physical or even psychological reasons could benefit from a stair lift,” said Jerilyn Callen, a clinical associate professor of occupational therapy at Baylor University. According to Callen, stair lifts can help people with certain health conditions that impact the ability to balance while walking on stairs, including:

  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Dementia
  • Arthritis
  • Vision impairments
  • Spinal cord injuries

There are several things to keep in mind when purchasing a stair lift, Callen said. If you live alone and use a mobility device like a wheelchair, walker or cane, you’ll need to think about your setup at the top or bottom of the stairs.

“Once you’re up the lift, what’s the setup?” she asked. “Is there a wheelchair at the top of the stairs you may need ready? Are there long hallways to get down?”

Types of stair lifts

Stair lifts come in multiple styles and configurations to match your staircase and mobility needs. Most stair lifts have a maximum weight of between 300 to 600 pounds. Here are some of the more common home stair lift variations.

Straight stair lift

Straight stair lifts are typically the least expensive, while stair lifts for curved or spiral staircases tend to cost more.

Straight stair lifts are designed for traditional straight flights of stairs and can be installed on either side of your staircase. They usually contain an adjustable seat with a back and footrest. You press a button or move the joystick to raise or lower yourself up or down the stairs. This type of stair lift tends to be the least expensive and easiest to install.

Curved stair lift

Curved stair lifts are custom-made for any staircase that has a spiral or goes around a corner. They cost considerably more than a straight stair lift and are recommended for people living in homes that don’t have a traditional straight staircase or have a landing between floors.

Outdoor stair lift

Some stair lifts are specifically made for the outdoors and can withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions. They’re a good option if you have a porch, patio or deck that contains stairs you need to use regularly. Outdoor stair lifts are costlier than indoor ones.

Wheelchair stair lift

This type of stair lift is for wheelchair users or others who are unable to transfer easily to a seated stair lift. Be sure to check the weight limits of these lifts, especially if you have a power wheelchair.

Standing stair lift

Standing stair lifts let you stand up and hold on to the sides of the lift as you travel along the stairs. They tend to take up less space than seated stair lifts because they're more narrow. If you have difficulty sitting, can’t bend your knees easily or prefer to stand, you may want a standing stair lift.

Essential stair lift features

Most stair lifts are equipped with a variety of safety and comfort features to protect you against falls or injuries. These can include:

  • Safety sensors: Stair lifts can contain sensors that search for obstacles in the device's path, such as items left on the steps. The sensors automatically turn off the device, and it won’t move until the obstacles are removed.
  • Seat belts: Stair lifts move slowly, but it’s a good idea to buckle up to prevent falls or injuries when you use one.
  • Tracks: Stair lifts use a track to move up and down the staircase at a slow speed. Tracks are usually mounted to the wall next to the stairs or to the stairway tread.
  • Foldable seat and footrest: These features are designed for those who have narrow stairs or a minimal amount of space around the staircase.
  • Hinged track: This allows the track at the bottom of the stairs to fold away to avoid a tripping hazard when the stairlift is at the top of the staircase.
  • Controls: You can control the movement and speed of the chair lift by pressing buttons or maneuvering a joystick on the armrest. Some stair lifts have a remote control that you can use if you need to call the chair up or down the stairs.
  • Backup batteries: These batteries keep stair lifts operational when the power supply is inconsistent, like during power outages.
  • Swivel chairs: Designed for both safety and comfort, swivel lift chairs help you easily get into the chair.

The stair lift you choose should contain as many safety features as possible. Make sure your stair lift is installed properly and that your staircase is sturdy and large enough to fit the stair lift you desire.

How to buy a stair lift

Knowing where to start when buying a stair lift for yourself or a loved one can be difficult. There are a number of different types of stair lifts, and there are even more added options and features to consider. Here are some steps to get started choosing the right stair lift for your needs.

Understand your current environment

Stair lifts do not require a significant amount of power, are battery-powered, can typically be plugged into an outlet to charge and work in the event of a power outage.

Space is the biggest obstacle Callen, the clinical associate professor, sees that prevents a person from installing a stair lift in their home. Callen recommends first looking at your space because you may not realize how narrow your stairs really are.

Nevertheless, if you can safely walk on the stairs, they're safe enough to install a stairlift on, according to Pete Newstrom, VP at Arrow Lift. A stairlift system doesn't weigh much (between 100-200 pounds), and multiple supports spread the system's weight out across multiple steps.

Buying vs. renting a stairlift

Renting a stair lift is a good way to reduce your costs if you only need one for a short period.

Consider how long you’ll need to use the stair lift. It may be a good idea to purchase a stair lift if you’ve been told you’re unlikely to regain full mobility and want to stay at home long-term. If the stair lift is needed for only a short period, renting may be more convenient and cost-efficient than purchasing.

The shopping process

Contact different companies to get estimates on the best stair lifts and compare those prices to find the best deal. There are multiple stair lift manufacturers in the market, and most offer an array of options and features.

Check reviews, compare specifications and get quotes to evaluate which stair lift is right for you, including weight requirements. Some companies have showrooms where you can test out different models.

Stairlift installation

Many of the major stair lift companies come to your home to measure the stairwell and give you options. It might be tempting to do the measurements or install the device yourself to save money, but Callen recommended letting the company representative come out to get the most accurate measurement. This also helps avoid accidents or faulty installation. This evaluation is typically done at no cost, and purchase usually includes the warranty and installation.

How much does a stair lift cost?

Stair lifts can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $22,000. That doesn’t include the modifications you may need to make to your home in order to accommodate a stair lift. Some general ranges:

  • Straight indoor stair lifts cost $3,000 to $7,000.
  • Curved indoor stair lifts cost $10,000 to $20,000.
  • Straight outdoor stair lifts cost $4,000 to $8,000.
  • Curved outdoor stair lifts cost $12,000 to $22,000.

Outdoor stair lifts are typically more expensive than indoor stair lifts because of the additional components required for weather-proofing, says Pete Newstrom, VP at Arrow Lift.

Renting a stair lift can cost between $80 and $600 a month, depending on the lift’s features and the nature of your staircase. This doesn’t include the cost of installation and removal, which can cost from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

How to pay for a stair lift

Stair lifts are expensive and often aren’t covered by insurance. Medicare considers stair lifts to be home modifications and not durable medical equipment, so it doesn’t cover them. Medicaid may cover a stair lift installation in some circumstances; rules vary by state.

A Medicare Advantage plan might cover some of the cost of a stair lift if you have a prescription from your health care provider stating that one is medically necessary. However, Callen cautioned that as an occupational therapist, she has written many letters of necessity and has had little success in getting coverage for stair lifts.

If you are a veteran, you may be able to receive assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for a stair lift.

Callen also recommended reaching out to community programs — your health care team can help facilitate this. You may also qualify for a grant, and some stair lift companies offer financing options to help you pay for one. Ask the stair lift company about these options when you get a quote.

Renting a stair lift is an option if you have a short-term need while recovering from surgery or an injury. Keep in mind that most stair lift companies won’t rent to you if you rent your home because of liability issues, Callen said. You may also have the option to purchase a used stair lift, which reduces cost.

Your stair lift and its maintenance might be tax deductible as a medical expense. See the IRS website for more information.

If you can’t afford a stair lift

For many people, stair lifts are out of financial reach, so you may need to consider other options. If you’re only expecting to have limited mobility for a short, finite term, a temporary solution is to create living space on the first floor of your home if it isn’t there already. Many people will have recovered enough to manage trips upstairs by the time a rental stair lift is installed, Callen said.

If you have long-term mobility issues and can’t afford a stair lift, downsizing into a one-level home may be a better option, Callen said. It may not be ideal, but it is a way to remain independent in your home.

Stair lift warranties

Each company offers different stair lift warranties that vary based on the model.

Some companies offer lifetime warranties on the stair lift motor and gearbox. Other companies offer a warranty for a few years on certain parts and labor. Your warranty typically doesn’t cover accidental damage, such as a failure caused by using cleaning products on the electric system.

Make sure you understand what maintenance you need to do on the stair lift in order to keep the warranty valid. Some companies will void your warranty if you don’t have the stair lift installed by an authorized dealer.

Stair lift maintenance

With proper maintenance, your stair lift should last a decade or longer. Once you have a stair lift installed, schedule an annual appointment for a technician to inspect and service it. Be sure to read your stair lift manual for specific maintenance requirements.

In day-to-day use, your stair lift can be wiped down with a dry cloth to remove any dust or debris, but be cautious of using harsh cleaners or wet cloths because these can damage the motor or gears.

FAQ

Does Medicare cover stair lifts?

Medicare doesn’t cover stair lifts because they’re not classified as durable medical equipment. Some of the cost might be covered under your Medicare Advantage plan if you have a prescription of medical necessity from your health care provider, but these instances are rare.

Does insurance cover stair lifts?

Most private health insurers do not cover stair lifts, but if you are a veteran you may be able to seek help from the VA or community programs to help offset the cost of a stair lift.

How much weight can a stair lift carry?

Be sure you check how much weight your stair lift can handle before purchasing or renting one. Stair lifts can carry on average about 300 to 600 pounds.

Stair lift types and models have different maximum weight limits. Stair lift companies design wheelchair lifts to accommodate the weight of a wheelchair, but a power wheelchair will weigh considerably more than a standard wheelchair.

How fast do stair lifts travel?

Stair lifts travel extremely slowly, but it’s still important to make sure you wear a seat belt and sit correctly on the lift to prevent accidents or injuries.

Can you rent a stair lift?

Some companies offer stair lift rentals for about $80 to $600 a month. The price doesn’t include the cost of installation and removing the stair lift and track. It also doesn’t include the cost of any home modifications you may need to install the stair lift.

Are stair lifts safe?

Stair lifts are safe as long as they've been installed correctly by a licensed representative. It’s important to have a trained stair lift technician handle the installation. They can ensure that safety devices work properly, like the system that detects if something is caught between the lift and the stairs, and automatically shuts off if there is.

How can I get a discount on a stair lift?

While researching companies, ask each about any available discounts. Stair lift companies also offer finance plans to help pay for a stair lift. In addition, you might qualify for assistance or grants from community programs to help offset some of the cost.

What is a platform stair lift?

Platform stair lifts work the same as regular stair lifts but instead of a seat they have a platform to accommodate wheelchairs or those that prefer to stand. Companies may refer to platform stair lifts as wheelchair stair lifts or standing stair lifts.


Guide sources

ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

  1. Medicare.gov, “Durable medical equipment (DME) coverage.” Accessed Nov. 8, 2023.
  2. Department of Veterans Affairs, “Disability housing grants for Veterans.” Accessed Feb. 1, 2023.

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