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Stairlift Problems

Stairlifts are mechanical equipment used to help people who have a difficulty climbing up and down the stairs by means of lifting them through the stairway. Though the equipment can be quite helpful, it is not immune to issues. Problems with stairlifts include inconsistencies in motion and failure to reach the given destination.

  1. History

    • The first stairlifts were produced during the 1930s by the Inclinator Company of America. They were overnight hits as they were bought by a specific target market--persons who are physically handicapped and victims of polio. At present, stairlifts are used by almost anybody suffering from a difficulty in climbing stairways, such as the elderly. Lightweight objects which take time to be carried by hand can also be placed in stairlifts for faster and more convenient delivery to the upper floor.

    Types

    • There are currently four types of stairlifts based on how they are driven. Cable stairlifts use steel cables similar to that of elevators, which advance passengers as they climb up the stairs. Chain lifts meanwhile are used on heavy duty staircases and tend to be noisy; screw lifts are powered by rechargeable batteries, and rack and pinion types are usually smooth and their settings can be adjusted manually.

    Problems

    • The main problems encountered by stairlifts regardless their driving types include rough lifting motions while they are operated as well as intermittent stopping of the cables or rails. These issues are due to the dryness of the gears through time as well as the accumulation of dust and residue through consistent use. These problems can easily be repaired by means of applying lubricant on the gears to retain rolling smoothness and by regular dusting and cleaning of the stairlift.

    Other Issues

    • Due to regular use, stairlifts also suffer from wear and tear. The add-on chairs, seats, as well as their corresponding belts get broken in time, but they can be fixed by means of replacement. Battery generated stailifts on the other hand would also require new power supply by means of battery replacement.

    Effects

    • Not attending to stairlift problems would increase the device's stiffness and reduces its smoothness during use; mold and mildew, when not removed, can cause the cables to wither and become brittle. The gear teeth may also turn rusty, which in turn reduces efficient lifting.

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