How to Choose the Right Stairlift | EZ Able

How Do I Choose the Right Stairlift?

Quick answer

Start with your staircase: straight stairs need a straight stairlift, while stairs with turns or landings need a custom curved lift. Then decide indoor or outdoor, pick the features you need, and choose a dealer who installs and services the lift after the sale.

Stairlift installation by EZ Able

1. Straight or curved?

  • Straight stairlift: for stairs that go straight up with no turns or landings. The most affordable option and the quickest to install. We keep our standard straight stairlifts in stock.
  • Curved stairlift: for stairs with bends, turns or landings. Custom-built to fit your staircase.

2. Indoor or outdoor?

Outdoor stairlifts use weather-resistant materials for decks, porches and outdoor steps, with the same comfort and safety features as indoor models.

3. Features to look for

  • Swivel seat for getting on and off safely at the top.
  • Folding seat and footrest to save space on narrow stairs.
  • Battery backup so the lift keeps working during a power outage.
  • Remote controls to send the chair up or down when no one is seated.
  • Safety sensors that stop the lift if something is in the way.

4. Measuring and installation

You don't need to measure like an expert. Our team guides you through it and confirms the fit at the site survey. Choose a factory-trained installer: a straight stairlift install generally takes a few hours, and curved or custom lifts should always be installed professionally. We install throughout Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

5. What it costs

  • Bruno Elan starts at $5,495. Bruno Elite starts at $7,745. Bruno Elite outdoor starts at $9,765.
  • Curved stairlifts are priced after a site survey.
  • We start with a quote, then a site survey.
  • Ask us about financing and grants.

Thinking about used?

Be careful with used or "refurbished" stairlifts. To our knowledge, no manufacturer offers certified refurbished stairlifts. We often hear from people whose used lift won't work in their home: an outdated model with no replacement parts, a lift built for the other side of the stairs, or a curved unit bought for straight stairs.

6. Buy quality, and service after the sale

A stairlift is a long-term purchase. A well-built lift lasts longer, breaks down less, rides more quietly and smoothly, and comes with better warranty coverage. We carry stairlifts from trusted manufacturers that meet our standards for quality, safety and durability.

Service matters just as much. Pick a dealer who offers maintenance, repairs and parts, and real people on the phone after your lift is installed.

Common questions

Do I need a straight or curved stairlift?

If your stairs go straight up with no turns or landings, a straight stairlift works. Turns, bends or landings need a custom curved stairlift.

How long does stairlift installation take?

A straight stairlift installed by a factory-trained technician generally takes a few hours.

How much does a stairlift cost?

The Bruno Elan starts at $5,495 and the Bruno Elite at $7,745. Curved stairlifts are priced after a site survey.

Should I buy a used stairlift?

Be cautious. Used lifts may lack parts, fit the wrong side of the stairs or be the wrong type for your staircase.

Related help

Need a hand?

Call us at 877-392-2531, Monday–Friday, 9–5 Eastern. You can also open a support ticket or chat with Abby on ezable.com.