Buyers Guide: Reconditioned Stairlifts

May 26, 2019
By Stairlifts
0 Comments

Buyers Guide:
Reconditioned Stairlifts

Reconditioned stairlift

So, you’re thinking of getting a stairlift? There’s every good reason why you should make this decision. Not only are they often considered to be a safety measure, but they can also offer you a new sense of freedom, which would otherwise be unavailable without a stairlift.

In our own homes, they can bring us a new sense of comfort and normality – something you may have been missing for a little while.

You’re likely wondering about the prices of these kinds of stairlifts, and with every good reason. Money is one of the most important factors when you’re making such a big decision. So, let’s look at one of the most cost-effective ways to purchase a stairlift – buying one reconditioned.

How do you estimate a stair lift price?

Estimating the price of a stairlift comes with its own set of challenges. Every person and every home is different. These are for the following reasons:

Does your house have any obstructions?
How long do you need the warranty? Spending more will guarantee more security.
Curved stairlifts are considerably more expensive.
Do you want a reconditioned stairlift or a new one? For obvious reasons, the latter will cost more money.
Look out for various (or lack of) details in the maintenance contract. Always read the fine print, and make sure you’re getting the best deal for your money.
Do you have specific requirements?

This guide will try to shine a light on what you may have to pay for your reconditioned stairlift, but as you can see it can be difficult to decipher. Hopefully, after reading this, you’ll have a much clearer idea on what you should be paying for a stairlift.

Reconditioned or new stairlifts?

This guide will focus on reconditioned stairlifts, so let’s take a look at whether or not that’s the option for you.

New stairlifts are considerably more expensive, however, they do obviously come with perks. For example, they can be designed to fit your specific needs and can directly focus on your specific mobility issues. As well as the obvious bonus – they’re brand new.

Reconditioned stairlifts are essentially quality items that have been refurbished, and will likely be in amazing condition. The main benefit is their value – they can be half the price of a new stairlift.

If you’re choosing a reconditioned stairlift, make sure that it is working to its full potential, and that you receive a warranty. Also, check out the maintenance contract, to make sure that, if any problems arise, you will have your stairlift fixed – with people on call 24 hours a day. One last point – make sure it has been serviced.

We must add, you can rent stairlifts. This has proven to be the best option for many people. This is especially true for those who only need the stairlift for a short period of time. The cost of these are approximately £45, give or take a few.

So, they are your options. If reconditioned seems like the option for you, keep on reading.

Do you need any extras

As you’ll be buying a reconditioned stairlift, it’s important that you disclose any extras you may be needing. This gives the supplier the chance to look for the right reconditioned stairlift for you. For example, some stairlifts have powered footplates, others have a swivel seat, and some may even be a perch seat.

As it’s harder to personalise your stairlift, make sure you let the supplier know about any other mobility issues, and extras which you feel would benefit you.

The average cost of a reconditioned stairlift

It’s important that you know that prices vary greatly, What you see below is a basic average. Yours may be less or more.

The average price of Reconditioned straight stairlift is around £850.

For a reconditioned curved stairlift, it’s around £1645.

To compare these to new stairlifts, straight are around £1,100 and drive are around £2000. That does include removal costs too. As you can see, you can save money by purchasing a reconditioned stairlift.

Obviously, optional extras, obstructions, and other factors will greatly affect this price.

Curved rails are more expensive than straight rails, due to the fact that it is not a one size fits all, unlike with straight rails.

The track will heavily depend on your unique structure – the more curves, the more money. This is important to know so you can work out your best options.

Are stairlifts exempt from VAT?

This can vary, but for the most part, yes they are. If you are considered chronically sick or disabled, you will not be made to pay VAT on your stairlift installation. This is due to the fact that stairlifts are zero-rated, along with other items for disabled people.

If you are over 60, you will get a 5% VAT relief if you don’t qualify for the 0% VAT. If either of these exemptions applies to you, just let your supplier know and they will do the rest.

Please check out the government information to find our more. This will give you in-depth information on VAT reliefs.

How much do Warranty and servicing cost?

Regardless of whether or not your stairlift is new or reconditioned, it should come with a one year’s warranty, that should be included in the price. Look out for that.

It can be extremely tempting to jump onto the lowest price, but you should always take into account what your supplier will offer you after the purchase. For instance, ongoing maintenance and service costs could make the price hike up drastically.

Most suppliers will offer an extended warranty for under £100, and a servicing contract for around £99 too.

This extra payment not only offers you security and comfort but can save you a heap of money in the long run. It’s definitely worth the investment.

How much do stairlifts cost to run?

Stairlifts don’t cost a lot at all to run, in fact some manufacturers claim that it costs less than a kettle.

We average it out at around £5 a year. This is a very basic estimation, implying that you would be using it around seven times a day – so if you use it less, the cost will be less and vice versa.

Financial assistance for stairlifts

Stairlifts are a big investment and a lot of people do not have the money floating about to buy one. So, if you feel you’re in desperate need of a stairlift, in some situations grants are available to help with the cost of home adaptations.

You could be eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant from your local authority. There are also other forms of financial aid available, sometimes by independent organisations and suppliers.

Please note that this all depends on your income, assessment of your needs, and how much savings you have. This means you will also be referred to an OT.

Important information about stairlifts

There are some things you need to know about stairlifts, before spending any money on them. This way, you can ensure that this is the right investment for you:

Urgent stairlifts can be fitted, sometimes even the next day. However, curved stairlifts take about 7 days.

Straight stairlifts can be fitted within an hour, and curved ones take 4 hours. This means you can have your stairlift in your home in a very short amount of time.

Stairlifts are not fitted to the wall, but to the stairs. This means you don’t have to worry about any structural changes or your house value.

If you’re not sure what to buy, suppliers will always be able to direct you to the best option for you. Tell them your specific needs and conditions, and they will know exactly what stairlift to choose.

Your OP can also choose the best stairlift for you, that is what they’re there for.

Yes, you can get a stairlift fitted outside, they are weatherproof and so low voltage that they are super safe. If this is important to you, ask about it.

Can I get a reconditioned curved stairlift?

In short, yes you can. However, it’s important to know that it can be a little more difficult.

Curved stairlifts are considerably more expensive, as they are totally unique to your house and stairs. That means somebody else’s house curvature will likely not match yours.

Usually, manufacturers will use a new rail, alongside a reconditioned carriage. Everything should be put through vigorous testing, to ensure it’s safe to use.

So, that will explain why curved reconditioned stairlifts are still more expensive than straight reconditioned stairlifts.

Some options for you

With all of that out of the way, there are some notable suppliers who will provide you with fantastic stairlifts, often at different prices.

We recommend that you compare prices for each supplier, including what is included in the packages.

Suppliers like Acorn and Companion are highly popular and have amazing ratings. These supply people with straight, curved and outdoor stairlifts.

If you have any more questions about reconditioned stairlifts or would like your very own quote, you can contact us and we will be very happy to help.

Comments are closed.

Call us today on 0800 069 9828

FreePhone0800 069 9828