Maintaining a stairlift involves basic procedures that are often overlooked, thus leading to unnecessary wear and tear. Considering the high cost of purchasing a new stairlift and the poor resale value of a used stairlift, learning about stairlift maintenance is in your best interest.
How to Know if Your Stairlift Needs Maintenance
- Awkward noises such as screeching when the stairlift is in use
- Bumpy rides
- Error codes on the display
- The stairlift is slow to start or refuses to start
If you note any of the above signs it means that you are late to carry out maintenance. The trick is to always perform stairlift maintenance before the machine starts to malfunction.
How To Maintain a Stairlift
Stairlift maintenance does not need to be done by a professional unless repairs and/or replacements are necessary.
Here are some tips to help you maintain your stairlift so it can serve you better for longer.
Regular Cleaning of the Lift Track
The lift track needs to be cleaned regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt that may damage parts of the track. To clean the track, make sure the stairlift is disconnected from its power source, and use a damp, but not wet, duster to remove dirt and grease. Use mild soap to remove particularly stubborn dirt.
Lubricate the Stairlift Regularly
The moving parts of the stairlift track need to be lubricated every three months. Oil is best for lubrication and it should be applied directly to the surface of the moving parts. Before applying the lubricant, clean the surface to remove any dirt that may have accumulated there. Also, remember to lubricate swivel seats every three to six months.
Fix Loose Parts
The moving parts of a stairlift can easily come loose. To prevent accidents, regularly confirm that all moving parts are tightly screwed in their proper positions. For example, wheels should be firmly attached with nuts and bolts while also being able to move easily when the stairlift is in motion.
Worn out parts need to be replaced as soon as possible, and the parts used for the replacement should be sourced from the original manufacturer. This way, the stairlift is guaranteed to work to the best of its ability.
Replace Batteries Regularly
Batteries must be replaced every one to two years. The batteries should always be kept in a dry environment to prevent condensation, which will erode them. Always ensure that they are charged to full capacity for the best possible performance.
Watch Out for Error Codes on the Display
Stairlifts are designed with a display screen that will show an error message when a part of the stairlift is malfunctioning. Some error codes may be hard to decipher while some may be straight forward. For example, a beeping sound may mean that the battery is low and needs to be charged.
If you are unable to decipher the meaning of an error code do not attempt to troubleshoot yourself. Instead, call the company from which you purchased the stairlift and notify them of the error.
Regular Maintenance Services by an Expert
A yearly check by a stairlift technician is recommended, but this depends on how regularly the stairlift is used. Expert technicians will advise you on parts that need replacement and can help prevent problems before they occur.
Ensure Proper Usage
For a stairlift to outlive its lifespan it needs to be used for the right purposes. For example, children should not be allowed to play on or around stairlifts, and stairlifts should not be used to carry excessively heavy objects. Lastly, always keep in mind the maximum carrying capacity of your stairlift and make sure you never exceed it.