New Stairlifts vs Reconditioned Stairlifts: Which is Best for You?
Get in touchLet's jump right into it. You're looking for a stairlift in your home and you're trying to decide between getting a new one or investing in a reconditioned one.
It's a tough call, because while a new stairlift offers a sleek, never-before-used aesthetic and the peace of mind that its brand-spanking new, investing in something pre-owned could save you some serious cash in the long run.
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To help you make an informed decision, we have put together this blog post outlining the pros and cons of both new and reconditioned stairlifts.
From comparing pricing and warranty coverage to discussing the installation process and any future stairlift repairs, this post will address all the big questions you have when it comes to buying a stairlift. Read on to discover which option is best for you!
Understanding Stairlifts
When deciding between purchasing a new or reconditioned stairlift, it is important to start by understanding the basics of what a stairlift actually is.
A stairlift is an electric-powered chair or platform that travels along a track that has been securely mounted to a staircase.
It transports a person up and down the stairs in either a vertical or inclined track depending on the structure of the staircase.
Both new and reconditioned stairlifts have their benefits and drawbacks.
For example, new stairlifts tend to come with the latest technology, such as quieter motors and safer brakes than their reconditioned counterparts.
Additionally, they are generally easier to install as everything is brand new and has yet to be used.
However, this convenience comes at a higher price tag and there is a greater risk around reliability since parts may not be tried and tested.
On the other hand, reconditioned stairlifts often cost significantly less while providing access via a safe and tested product.
They are most suitable for individuals who only need the product for short-term use or those on tighter budgets.
But buyers should do their research before making their purchase as it is difficult to ascertain exactly how old the product is or how many previous users it has had.
Why Consider a Stairlift?
A stairlift is a simple, effective solution for those who experience challenges with mobility and stairs. Providing a secure, comfortable method of accessing multiple stories, they are both efficient and essential in many homes.
With the different types of stairlifts available, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons before making a decision on which one is right for your needs.
One argument in favour of choosing a stairlift is that it can significantly reduce the risk of falls, especially among older adults or individuals with physical impairments.
Installing a device such as this provides users with peace of mind knowing that their movements up and down stairs will be safe and secure.
Additionally, stairlifts are designed to fit onto almost any staircase, meaning they can be used in many different household environments while taking into account potential space restrictions.
While there may be advantages to having a stairlift installed, some may argue that it could lead to excessive reliance on the device which could have an impact on overall muscle strength or coordination in the long run.
For instance, if individuals rarely use stairs without assistance from a stairlift, it could affect their ability to climb them later on. This issue could be particularly relevant for those with temporary disabilities or impairments such as during recovery from surgery or illness.
No matter what your individual circumstances are, carefully considering why you need a stairlift is essential when making a decision about which one best suits your requirements.
In the following section, we will look at comparing new and reconditioned stairlifts so you can make an informed decision about which one to choose for your home.
Comparing New and Reconditioned Stairlifts
When comparing new and reconditioned stairlifts, there are several key factors to consider.
The most important is the safety of the device, followed by price and longevity. For those considering investing in a stairlift for a loved one, it is important to find a reliable device at a lower price.
New stairlifts come with all the bells and whistles – top-of-the-range, reliable technology, and the latest safety features. However, this comes with a hefty price tag making it more expensive than reconditioned models which may not have the same range of features available or be as up-to-date.
It is also worth mentioning that due to rapidly advancing technology, a new stairlift may become out of date far quicker than its reconditioned counterpart.
Reconditioned stairlifts offer users the chance to buy something that is cheaper than buying brand new.
These kinds of devices are often just as safe as their newer counterparts and come fitted with the majority of the same features.
Maintenance and service will also be less expensive compared to repairing or servicing a new system.
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Therefore, when considering what kind of stairlift is best for you, evaluate your options by looking closely at all aspects such as safety, longevity, replacement parts, and associated costs before making a decision.
Buying a refurbished stair lift may seem daunting at the beginning or make you think that you are investing in a product that is lower quality.
This isn't the case at all, any stairlift that is installed is tested and prepared before being sent out. Just because it is a pre owned stairlift doesn't mean that it is any lower quality than a brand new stairlift.
Pre owned stairlifts are a much better choice if you are on a budget, as they offer all of the same features as a brand new stairlift but without the initial teething in period all coming in at a cheaper price.
Safety Features of New and Reconditioned Stairlifts
When discussing which type of stairlift is best for you, one of the most important factors to consider is safety. After all, the most crucial aspect of any stairlift system is that it keeps the user safe and secure while in use.
When comparing both reconditioned and new stairlifts, it’s important to consider their respective safety features before reaching a final decision.
New stairlifts come equipped with advanced safety systems and technology that are designed with modern safety regulations in mind. These systems often include unique sensors which will stop the lift if any objects are obstructing its descent or ascent, as well as larger seats and motors with the increased weight capacity.
Buying a reconditioned stairlift cheaper than a new stair lift is often times a better fit, this is because the reconditioned stairlift has gone through the initial teething problems, so there shouldn't be any problems.
In addition, new stairlifts also typically come with remote control units with fall prevention mechanisms in place.
Reconditioned stairlifts have many of the same safety features as their new counterparts, though they may be slightly outdated in terms of technology and could potentially break down more quickly because of age.
However, there are still many benefits to purchasing a reconditioned stairlift; many used models can come equipped with more powerful motors than newer ones and boast a robust construction that can provide reliable performance for years to come.
No matter which stairlift you choose, it is always recommended that you use caution when using it and follow any instructions given by either the manufacturer or installer.
With proper usage and maintenance, both reconditioned and new stairlifts can provide users with safe transport up or down stairs—it simply boils down to understanding your needs and finding what works best for you.
Now that we have discussed the safety features associated with both new and reconditioned stairlifts, let’s look into the financial costs associated with each option entitled "Costs Associated With New and Reconditioned Stairlifts".
Costs Associated with New and Reconditioned Stairlifts
When it comes to purchasing a stairlift, the primary element to consider is stair lift cost. The cost of new and reconditioned stairlifts can vary significantly and both can be installed for thousands of pounds.
Depending on the model chosen, a brand-new unit could range anywhere from £1,000 to in excess of £4,500.
Alternately, reconditioned models could tend to be slightly less expensive at approximately half the cost or even lower.
In some cases, depending on the age of the existing stairlift or any additional required modifications, buying a new one might represent a better value than looking into used models.
For example, if a stairlift is being bought as a replacement for an old one, making sure it is compatible with existing components at home may help offset some of the costs associated with buying a new unit.
On the other hand, opting for a reconditioned model might prove more budget-friendly and may come with several advantages such as warranty periods (although these are often shorter than buying a new unit) and sometimes free installation services within an area which could end up saving hundreds.
Considering all these factors will allow users to determine whether opting for new or reconditioned models better suits their needs and budget.
Ultimately, when purchasing a stairlift the user should carefully weigh all available options to ensure they are getting the best value for money out of their investment.
We can also give you an in depth guide on used stairlift removals, our aim is to make everything regarding stairlifts easy for everyone.
Types of Stair Lifts Available
There are a few different types of stair lift available, listed below are some of the most common options that we suggest:
Curved Stairlift (Requires Curved Staircase)
Refurbished Stairlift
Contact our team of experts we can talk you through the choice of choosing the right stairlift for you.
FAQs
Here's all of the frequently asked questions surrounding new and reconditioned stairlifts in the UK:
Are there any potential advantages or disadvantages to purchasing a reconditioned stairlift?
When it comes to purchasing a reconditioned stairlift, you have several potential advantages and disadvantages to consider.
One advantage of a reconditioned stairlift is that it may be significantly less expensive than buying a new one. This makes it a great option for those who are on a budget but still need the same comfort and mobility benefits a new stairlift provides.
A reconditioned model could save you a considerable amount of money upfront, which could be incredibly helpful if you’re in financial hardship.
On the downside, reconditioned stairlifts may not have warranty coverage or technical support options. This means that if something goes wrong with your device, you won’t be able to get help as quickly or easily compared to buying a brand-new model.
Also, depending on the age of the lift, there is always the risk that certain parts or components won’t be available or compatible with newer models on the market.
What safety measures should I consider when purchasing a new or reconditioned stairlift?
When purchasing a new or reconditioned stairlift, safety should always be your top priority. There are a few things to consider when selecting and installing your stairlift.
First, make sure the selected lift meets all relevant safety standards, including those from international bodies like ISO and those from the local manufacturing company.
Second, you should ensure that all components, wiring, switches, and power outlets on the stairlift are properly installed and regularly maintained in order to avoid potential problems or hazards.
Third, have an expert installer come in to set up the stairlift in accordance with all manufacturers’ guidelines - this will help to maximise its safety.
Finally, it’s important for users to read and understand the manual provided by the manufacturer before using the stairlift. This is essential for proper operation and understanding how to use emergency features such as auto-stop if something goes wrong.
What factors should I consider when deciding between a new or reconditioned stairlift?
When considering the choice between a new or reconditioned stairlift, the key factors to consider include cost, warranty, and installation requirements.
First of all, price is likely to be your main deciding factor. While reconditioned stairlifts may seem like a more affordable option initially, they can often become more costly in the long run due to higher maintenance fees and any added installation costs required.
A new stairlift can be a much more cost-effective option, as it will typically come with a warranty and free installation.
You should also consider what kind of warranty comes with each option.
New stairlifts often come with a comprehensive warranty that covers parts and labour for one year or more; this is beneficial in terms of offering peace of mind that any problems with the product will be sorted out quickly and easily.
Reconditioned stairlifts are unlikely to come with a warranty, so you would need to check with your provider very carefully before buying an old unit.
By weighing up all these factors – cost, warranty, and installation requirements – you can make a more informed decision about whether a new or reconditioned stairlift is right for you.
Summary
When buying used stairlifts we would always suggest buying one from a reputable company this is because it will have been overhauled and tested before it is installed in a new home.
A typical refurbished stairlift includes new batteries, a 15 point inspection as well as a 30 day guarantee.
When buying a brand new stair lift we would always suggest buying your new lift from a company you can trust as they can provide you with warranty for your product.