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What Is A Straight Stair Lift?
from: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.
About the author: Robin OBrien
Follow the links for straight stair lifts and get information on stair chair lifts on leading brands like the Ameriglide stair lift.
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