What Is A Straight Stair Lift?
By Robin OBrien

There are two types of stair lifts to choose from. There s the straight and the curved stair lift. The straight model is the most popular type and is the cheapest. To know why this is you should first know exactly what is a straight stair lift.

Many people who are disabled or handicapped in someway would greatly benefit by installing a stair chair lift. There s no doubt that buying and installing one can give people back their independence. Their prices are now very competitive and many can now afford to buy one.

But, many know what a chair stair lift is but are not entirely sure about the terminology used when it comes to buying one.

Basically, you can either buy a straight model if your staircase is straight or a curved one if your staircase turns, has a middle landing, or has any king of obstruction on the stairs.

Curved stair lifts have to be custom made, take a long time to install and are expensive.

In comparison the straight version is considerably cheaper and is easy to install. In fact, many people are quite capable of installing a straight unit in just a few hours using household tools.

A straight unit consists of a chair that is mounted on a straight track that runs the entire length of the stairs. The track is mounted on the stair treads - never the wall - and most brands come in lengths between 16 and 20 feet. A motor then pulls the chair along the track. Older systems tended to use cables (the Bruno stair lift still does) but most new lifts now use rack and pinion as there is less wear and tear and you tend to get a smoother ride.

Most straight models are battery powered. Older ones where powered by mains electricity (Summit Stair Lifts still manufactures an AC mains electric model) but rechargeable batteries are now used because they are reliable, cheap to repair and replace, DC provides a smoother ride than does AC power supply, and you can use it even during power outages.

You can buy both new and used straight chair lifts. If you are thinking of buying a used one make sure that the track runs on the correct side for your stairs. Also make sure the track size fits your staircase. A second hand unit may possibly be AC powered so you will need an electrician to do the wiring. Check the controls for signs of wear and tear. Finally, what kind of warranty will you get if you buy privately you ll probably get no guarantees and no after sales care.

There are many top rated brands of chair stair lifts to choose from. Choosing the right one for you will depend on your budget and the requirements you need safety belts, motorized or manual swivel chair, remote controls etc. Some of the best models today come from Stannah, Bruno, Acorn and Ameriglide Stair Lifts, although there are other brands as well you should consider. Your best option is to contact a dealer and discuss your requirements. You can easily find them online and they will be able to advise on which straight stair lift best fits your requirements.

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