Stairlift Basics: Types and Safety Features | EZ Able

Stairlift Basics: Types, Safety Features and How They Work

Quick answer

A stairlift is a motorized chair that rides a narrow rail attached to your stairs, carrying one person up and down. Models are made for straight, curved, indoor and outdoor stairs, and they carry 300 to 500 lbs. Safety sensors, a seat belt and hold-to-run controls are standard.

How a stairlift works

The chair travels on a track attached directly to the stair treads, not the wall, so installation doesn't require changes to your home's structure. You ride with easy paddle controls, and many models have a digital display that shows the lift's status.

Standard features usually include a padded swivel seat, seat belt, maintenance-free DC power pack, lockable isolation switch, fold-up seat and footrest, safety sensors, infrared remote controls, and electronic and mechanical brakes.

How much room does it need?

  • The track takes up less than 10" of your staircase.
  • Folded up, most units use less than 14".
  • If your stairs are less than 36" wide, sit the rider in a chair against a wall and measure from the wall to their knees. Send us that measurement and we'll help you confirm there's enough room.

Weight capacity

Stairlifts carry from 300 lbs up to 500 lbs, depending on the model. They're designed for one person at a time.

Built-in safety features

  • Footrest sensors stop the lift in either direction if it touches anything on the stairs.
  • Carriage sensors stop the lift if there's an obstruction.
  • A swivel safety switch keeps the lift from running until the seat is in riding position.
  • Constant-pressure controls stop the lift the moment you let go.
  • A seat belt is standard.

Types of stairlifts and lifts

TypeBest for
Straight railStraight staircases. Two straight rails can be combined.
Curved railCurved stairs or several straight runs joined by landings. Custom-built for your stairway.
OutdoorRaised landings, porches, decks and outdoor steps, straight or curved.
Incline platform liftRiders who stay in their wheelchair. Roll onto a platform that travels along the stairs.
Porch lift (vertical platform lift)Reaching a porch or deck straight up or down, up to 14 feet of travel. A space-saving option for wheelchair and scooter users.

Which stairlift do I need?

Stairlifts suit people who can stand and sit but find the climb hard. Your staircase shape, indoor or outdoor use and the rider's needs decide the model. Our team will help you choose a lift that fits your stairs and your routine.

What does a stairlift cost?

At EZ Able®, the Bruno Elan starts at $5,495, the Bruno Elite starts at $7,745 and the Elite outdoor starts at $9,765. Curved stairlifts are priced after a site survey. We start with a quote, then a site survey, and we install throughout Michigan's Lower Peninsula. If you need help paying, ask about grants and financing. The Veterans Administration (for veterans) and your local Commission on Aging are good places to start.

Common questions

Does a stairlift attach to the wall?

No. The track attaches to the stair treads, so no structural changes to your home are needed.

How much weight can a stairlift carry?

Between 300 and 500 lbs, depending on the model. Stairlifts carry one person at a time.

Will a stairlift fit on narrow stairs?

The track uses less than 10" of the stairway and most units fold to under 14". If your stairs are under 36" wide, send us a knee-to-wall measurement and we'll help check the fit.

How much does a stairlift cost?

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

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.