What You Need to Know About Chair Lifts for Stairs (2026)

If taking the stairs is becoming increasingly difficult, you may be looking into mobility tools to reduce stress or worry about falling. While chair lifts for stairs aren’t the only option, they’re an excellent choice for those who want assistance going up and down stairs safely. 

Stair lifts are ideal for homeowners who want to age in place and not move into a retirement or assisted living facility. 

If you live in Harrisburg, Lancaster, Reading, or York, here is what you need to know about chair lifts for stairs, including different types, features, components, pricing, and more.

Are “Stair Lifts” and “Chair Lifts for Stairs” the Same Thing?

Yes, “stair lifts” and “chair lifts for stairs” refer to the same mobility device. Stair lifts are motorized seats that sit on a track and glide up and down the stairs at the push of a button. 

In a nutshell, they help people with mobility issues move safely between different levels of a home. 

What Are the Different Types of Stair Lifts?

• Straight: Straight stair lifts are the standard option and the most chosen mobility device. They’re quick to install on straight staircases as they have a standardized rail that can be cut to fit any average staircase. Bruno manufactures some of the best stairlifts, which are high-quality and come with a stairlift warranty. Most straight stair lifts can be installed in one day and have a weight capacity of 300 to 600 lbs. 
• Curved: Some staircases have turns, curves, or intermediate landings. These staircases require curved stairlifts to navigate those turns. They’re custom-built by manufacturers to perfectly fit your staircase. Those with intermediate landings on their staircase might find it more affordable and get faster installation if opting for two standard straight stair lifts. 
• Outdoor: Outdoor stairlifts come in straight or curved configurations and are built to withstand the elements, including snow, wind, and rain. They also have an outdoor cover for added protection. 

Is It Safe to Use a Stair Lift?

Yes, stair lifts are safe to use when installed by professionals. Stair lifts make traveling up and down a staircase easy for those with mobility issues. 

At Independent Home Solutions, our experts provide a free in-home assessment to help you decide if a stair lift is suitable for you.  

What are Common Stair Lift Components & Features?

Here are the main features and components of a stair lift: 

Stair Lift Features: 

• Safety features: A stair lift’s most important features include a seat belt and obstruction sensors, making it even safer to use. While the seat belt straps you in tight, the sensors will stop the unit if it detects an obstacle, which is great if you have children or animals running around your home. 
• Swivel seat: Stairlifts have swivel seats that allow safe entry and exit at the top landing or at the bottom of the staircase. A swivel seat can rotate up to 90° by pressing a lever next to it, and it locks into place once fully swiveled. 
• Seat, footrest, & armrests: Like a standard chair, the stair lift has a seat, footrest, and armrest. These components can typically be folded when parked at the top or bottom of the stairs to save space. 
• Remote controls: Stairlifts have one or two remote controls that “call and send” the chair up or down the rail. Remotes are ideal when more than one person is using the lift.  

Stair Lift Components: 

• Rail: The rail is the base of a chair lift. It’s what the chair glides up and down on and covers the entire side of a staircase. Stairlift rails can vary in design by manufacturer, but the most popular brand, Bruno, uses narrow rails that don’t take up much space on a staircase. Rails are mounted on the stair tread and require no wall support. 
• Chair: Depending on the manufacturer, the chair may also come in different shapes and sizes. Stair lift chairs have folding components, a seat, armrests, and footrests. Chairs can typically be upgraded and contain the motor and batteries. 
• Power source: Most stair lifts contain rechargeable batteries. Bruno stair lifts contain 12V batteries and a “smart” battery charger with standard power outlets. When docked at the top or bottom, a stair lift should be recharging, and you should never have to worry about it. 

What Other Features Should You Consider When Buying a Stair Lift?

In addition to stairlift components and features, there are additional safety features that enhance usability and comfort. Certain stair lift add-ons upgrade the experience and make it safer. 

Please keep in mind that some options below may not be available for stair lift models offered by Independent Home Solutions. 

1. Power Folding Footrest

There are two types of power-folding footrests: standard and arm-activated. Standard footrests are popular for those using a lift who struggle to bend down to fold them up. 

The standard power-folding footrest works as follows: You use the stair lift as normal, and then when you lift up the seat, the footrest automatically folds up. When you want to use the stair lift again, simply push the seat down, and the footrest also comes down automatically. 

The other option, arm-activated, is also easy. You can push a button, and the armrest folds neatly. 

2. Power Swivel Seat 

Most stair lift models come with a swivel seat that the user must manually turn. However, if mobility issues mean you can’t safely swivel the chair, then a power swivel seat is encouraged. It’s a safe way to use the chair without causing injury. 

A power swivel control will be on the chair’s arm. It’s simple to use and enhances safety. 

3. Larger Footrest 

Standard footrests are sometimes too small. Those who require a larger footrest can upgrade to a larger size. 

4. Folding Rail 

You can add a manual or power folding rail during stair lift installation. Folding rails let you move the rail and push it up against the wall, giving you more space on your staircase. They are a great additional safety feature because they prevent your staircase from becoming a tripping hazard, especially on staircases with heavy foot traffic. 

Folding rails can typically be installed on straight stairlifts, but some curved stair lift models can also include them. It may be difficult to decide between a manual and a power folding rail. Our stairlift experts can help you choose the best stairlift options for your home. 

5. Upholstery 

You can request upgraded colors if the standard stair lift colors don’t match your home’s color palette. Upgrading the upholstery is possible for certain stair lift models. Please inform us before installation if you’d like to upgrade your unit. We want you to love and feel confident with your stair lift choice. 

What are the Benefits of a Stair Lift?

Stair lifts offer benefits to anyone with mobility issues, as well as to their loved ones or caregivers. The main benefits include: 

• Peace of Mind: Giving yourself and loved ones peace of mind is a gift. With a stair lift, you can reduce stair-related injuries and have the confidence to safely move up and down the stairs. They also help reduce anxiety for those having a hard time climbing up and down stairs. 
• Independence: Maintaining independence is one of the main reasons folks choose to have stair lifts installed in their homes. When someone’s independence is limited by complex staircases or steps, it affects their quality of life. Installing a stair lift allows you to access every room in your home and regain total independence. 
• Safety: Those with mobility issues likely have concerns with missing a step, slipping, or tripping on objects on the stairs. A simple way to avoid these issues is by installing a stair lift with safety features. Simply sit on the stair lift chair, use the seatbelt, and glide easily up and down the stairs without worrying about safety.  
• Affordable Solution: When comparing the price of a standard stair lift to the monthly cost of living in assisted living facilities or independent senior living communities, it’s clear that a stair lift is the most cost-effective option. Pricing data from assistedliving.org shows that the average monthly cost of an assisted living facility ranges from $3,500 to $10,500, while the cost of a senior independent living community ranges from $1,500 to $4,000. When choosing to install a stair lift, it will have paid for itself in a few months, and you’ll get to stay in the home you know and love. 

How Much Does a Chair Lift for Stairs Cost?  

Straight stair lifts generally cost between $3,400 and $10,000 (new or used). Curved stair lifts cost between $10,000 and $27,000, while outdoor stairlifts (curved or straight) go anywhere from $3,400 to $27,000. 

For an accurate quote, contact us for your free home consultation. You can also get a price estimate using our pricing estimate tool. 

How to Find a Reliable Stair Lift Company 

Finding a reliable stairlift company may feel challenging, but there are a few key factors to consider. When searching for a company, read reviews on sites like Google or Trustpilot. Check if a company is licensed and insured, and ensure their installers are professionals. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do Medicare or health insurance plans cover stair lifts? 

Unfortunately, no. Most Medicare and health insurance plans don’t cover stair lifts. However, some Medicare and Medicaid plans may offer additional coverage, so we recommend calling your insurance providers to see whether they cover any associated costs. 

What are alternatives to stair lifts? 

There are different alternatives to stair lifts, including wheelchair lifts, stair climbers, residential elevators, and wheelchair ramps. These assist those struggling with mobility and getting up and down different levels of a home. 

Can you use outdoor stair lifts in the rain or snow? 

Yes, outdoor stair lifts are designed for use in poor weather, including rain, snow, and extreme heat. Outdoor units are made with specialized weather-proof materials to withstand extreme weather. That said, ice on a stair lift may reduce its ability to run. 

What’s a good stair lift company in Central Pennsylvania?

Call our team at Independent Home Solutions to get help as soon as possible with any mobility issues you or a loved one is facing. We know how hard it can be to navigate tricky stairs, so we offer a fast, free, in-home assessment for your staircase. 

Our service areas in Central Pennsylvania include Harrisburg, Lancaster, Reading, and York. We also offer help with other mobility issues and install walk-in showers and wheelchair ramps. 

Are stair lifts safe to use?

Yes, if a licensed professional installed your stairlift, it is a safer way to get up and down the stairs. Stairlifts are an excellent option for those with limited mobility who can sit and stand with no assistance. 

While they may not be a fit for everyone, they can help many people remain in their homes longer. Independent Home Solutions experts can help determine if a stair lift is right for you or a loved one. 

Most stair lift models have built-in safety features, such as obstruction sensors and seat belts, to ensure safety.   

Can I install used stair lifts myself? 

It’s not recommended to install a chair lift for stairs on your own, unless you’re a certified stair lift installer. Stair lifts have safety features and are a special type of device that should always be installed by a professional to reduce accidents. 

Are stair lift repairs expensive? 

Stair lift repair costs will vary based on what needs to be fixed. Many large components are covered by warranties, but they don’t cover labor costs. Smaller stair lift repairs are relatively affordable, typically costing between $100 and $300.