Stair Lift Maintenance Tips

Climbing stairs has consistently been rated as one of the most challenging tasks for older people or those suffering from mobility issues due to conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, etc. A stair lift resolves this problem and is ideal for settings that do not have adequate space to install an elevator. However, continuous usage can cause wear and tear of the lift’s components and prevent it from working smoothly. Regular stair chair lift maintenance helps keep your device in good working condition and extends its lifespan. It is important to monitor your stair lift performance and keep an eye out for signs of problems such as:

• Unusual noises
• A ride which feels bumpy or not smooth
• Juddering or slow start
• Error codes on your device display
• Beeping sound (which may be an alert to an error code or sign of a low battery)

How to maintain your Stair lift?

After purchasing a stair lift, make sure you read through the instruction manuals specific to your model as this will help familiarize yourself with the basic rules and guide you in using the device. The manual will have instructions relating to the lift’s battery and its movable parts, which must be properly followed to keep your lift in good working order. Here are some useful stair lift maintenance tips:

• Cleaning the lift track is an effective way to maintain its life span. Always use a duster or damp (but not wet) cloth and wipe over the track and seat at least once a week to prevent a buildup of dust and dirt. Always disable the device (by removing the key) before cleaning the track.
• Lubricate the track once every three months to prevent issues related to movement deterioration. Avoid the use of solvents and detergents as these can be abrasive. Instead, grease the track with an approved lubricant.
• Check the moving parts of the device such as swivel seat, arms and footrest and cable. Make sure that the seat is not loose and does not wobble. Check the seat locking mechanism and ensure that the seat locks fully and is secure. Depending on the extent of usage, it is important to lubricate the swivel seat every 6-12 months.
• If the lift has a trailing cable, it should be regularly inspected for signs of cracks or other damage. The cable should be neatly kept out of the way to prevent tripping hazards to staircase users. For indoor trailing cables, lubricate them with talcum powder. For outdoor trailing cables, use silicone spray.
• Batteries need to be charged completely. Generally, they need to be replaced every 1-2 years (depending on use and as defined in the owner’s manual). Keep the battery charger in a safe and dry spot so as to prevent condensation from forming in the charger.
• Check all mounting bolts and screws to ensure they are tight and make adjustments if necessary.
• Inspect the track and wheels to check that they are in good working condition, without any cracks or breaks. If a wheel does not rotate freely, it should be replaced.

Regular preventive maintenance is important to keep the device in good working condition. Purchasing your stair lift from National Seating & Mobility will ensure efficient and prompt stair lift maintenance services by factory-trained technicians. By spotting problems which an untrained person may have missed, these experts can help you keep your device in excellent working condition.