How to Operate and Maintain your Stairlift
So you or your family member have a new stairlift. Well, it’s time to learn how to look after it so it can look after you.
How do you use a Stairlift?
Here’s a quick overview of how to operate a stairlift. These points below are generic so the actual controls for your lift may differ. However, most stairlift controls are similar.
- The controls are located on the armrest. They are designed to be use seated and while the stairlift is in motion.
- Pushed the lever or button left or right, depending on whether you want to go up or down.
- Alternatively use the remote control. This is an add-on feature which is available as an option from most brands. Remotes usually come with a bracket mount them onto the wall. A remote will enable someone to control the stairlift and send it up the stairs or bring it back down again. This is useful if there are two stairlift users in the house.
- To travel in the stairlift sit comfortably in the seat and fasten your seatbelt. Press the button or move the lever to the desired direction to set the stairlift in motion. You will need to keep pressure on the button or lever for the whole distance of the stairs. If you don’t, the stairlift will stop. This is a built in safety feature to prevent unintended use.
- Once you’ve reached the end of the stairs and the stairlift has rotated to the finish position – if it has a powered swivel seat – undo your safety belt, stand up and fold up the seat, arms and footplate manually or automatically.
How does a stair chair lift work?
The carriage (seat) runs along a toothed rail which is attached to the staircase. It is powered by an electric motor. There are batteries in the carriage which provide electricity to drive the electric motor. These batteries are recharged once the stairlift reaches it’s end point at the docking station.
How much does it cost to own a stairlift?
Stairlifts are a home appliance just like, for example, a TV or boiler. Like those, the ownership costs split into running and servicing. A typical curved stairlift will use a couple of kilowatt hours a day if used regularly. The energy consumption may end up being anywhere between 5p to 20p per day depending on the amount of use. Take a look at our FAQ at the bottom of this page for more information.
Anglian Lifts have stairlift service plans to meet most budgets. Stairlift brands typically offer a 12 month warranty on breakdowns and parts.
Why has my stair lift stopped working?
There could be a number of reasons why your stairlift has stopped working. Take a look at our error codes pages for help with your type of lift. If you can’t diagnose the issue or you can’t get the stairlift working again feel free to give our engineers a call. We service and maintain all types of stairlift. Take a look at our services page.
Acorn Straight Stairlift Error Codes
Acorn Curved Stairlift Error Codes
Can you manual move a stairlift?
There may be instances where it’s necessary to manually move a stairlift. We don’t recommend it unless there’s an emergency.
- How to manually move a stairlift (page to be created)


