Stair Lift Cost FAQs: Reading, PA

stair lift

How much do stair lifts cost in Reading, PA?

Reading, Pennsylvania homeowners spend between $3,400 and $10,000 on straight stair lifts. Curved stair lifts cost more, starting at around $10,000 and going up anywhere from $20,000 to $27,000. 

Why do curved stair lifts cost more than straight stair lifts? 

Curved stair lifts are more expensive than straight stair lifts because they’re personalized to fit the curve of your staircase. Straight stair lifts cost less because they come in pre-fabricated sizes that are easy to install. 

Do indoor and outdoor stair lifts cost the same amount? 

No, outdoor stair lifts are generally more expensive than indoor stair lift units because they have features and add-ons that make them more durable to outside elements. These extra features are ideal for cities like Reading, PA, where the weather can be extreme. 

Outdoor stair lifts are made with stronger, weather-resistant materials and may come with extra features like keys, stair lift covers, and lap harnesses. 

How much electricity does a stair lift use? 

Stair lifts use very little electricity compared to other home appliances because they only charge as needed. A stair lift is typically used for a few minutes before turning it off again. It will recharge the batteries when locked in the docking position. Stair lifts use an average of 24 watts per hour. 

What’s the average yearly cost to run a stair lift? 

Most homeowners spend between $15 and $25 a year on electricity for stair lifts. Other expenses like repairs and maintenance will vary depending on the stair lift brand and how well it has been maintained. 

How many years will a stair lift run? 

Stair lifts tend to last around 10 years, but they may last longer with proper maintenance. To keep your stair lift in good condition, you should always contact licensed stair lift professionals as soon as you notice an issue. This can reduce overall maintenance and cost. 

What are the yearly maintenance fees for stair lifts in Reading? 

There are no mandatory yearly maintenance fees for stair lifts, but you may choose to have your stair lift serviced each year. This may extend the life of your device. Yearly maintenance fees often cost between $0 and $300, depending on the condition of your stair lift. 

Dan Mitchell, owner of the Pennsylvania Independent Home Solutions, says that an “average local service call is $175 for homeowners within 40 miles, $195 for those outside 40 miles, and $250 if another company installed the stair lift.” 

Is there a cheaper alternative to stair lifts? 

Yes, there are cheaper alternatives to stair lifts. If you’d like to save money and still have assistance going up and down the stairs, there are other mobility aids, such as grab bars, stair steppers, longer handrails, and portable ramps, that may be a good solution for your home. 

 

Please be aware that portable ramps will not work for standard staircases inside homes but are suitable options for shorter steps outside. 

Can I buy and install used stair lifts myself? 

We don’t recommend installing stair lifts yourself. Licensed professionals should install stair lifts to meet safety guidelines. If you have a set of used stair lifts, call us at 1-717-393-8213 to discuss help with installation. 

How much is a replacement battery for a stair lift? 

Stair lift replacement batteries typically cost between $15 and $50. Batteries should be relatively easy to replace, but don’t hesitate to contact a trusted stairlift company, like our team at Independent Home Solutions, if you need assistance. 

Are safety features included with a standard stair lift (or do they cost extra)? 

Standard stair lifts come with built-in safety features, but some add-ons cost extra. Add-on safety features might include an obstruction sensor, a tool that looks for items blocking the way and stops the stair lift, and a lap harness for outdoor stair lifts. 

What’s included in the price for a standard stair lift? 

When you purchase a stair lift, you will receive the stair lift, installation, and other included features such as the footrest, seat, remote, and controls. Add-on features like specialized seat cushions and customized upholstery are not included.

Are stair lift repairs expensive? 

Some stair lift repairs may be expensive, but the price will vary depending on which part of the device needs to be repaired. For example, replacing a rail or screws will be simple and relatively inexpensive while replacing a gearbox will have a higher cost. 

Do stair lifts come with a warranty? 

Yes, most stair lifts come with a free warranty. Available warranties vary depending on the stair lift brand and model. 

At Independent Home Solutions, we install durable Bruno stair lift units. Each unit is made in America and comes from a trustworthy company. 

Bruno stair lifts have a 30-day installation labor guarantee, a Limited Lifetime Warranty covering all major components, and a 2-year warranty for parts for indoor stair lifts. Their outdoor stair lifts come with a limited five-year warranty. 

Can I buy an additional warranty? 

No, most stair lift manufacturers do not offer extra warranties. This is because they provide free warranties upon purchase. We recommend researching popular stairlift brands like Bruno, AmeriGlide, Harmar, and Acorn to learn more about extended warranties. 

Do stair lift companies offer maintenance packages? 

Most stair lift companies offer as-needed stair lift assistance and do not offer maintenance or yearly servicing packages. 

Can I get a loan or grant for stair lifts? 

Yes, you may qualify for financial assistance, such as a loan or grant for mobility devices. We recommend contacting local foundations in Pennsylvania, such as Habitat for Humanity, Rebuilding Together, and Volunteers of America.  

You may find assistance through government organizations, including the VA for retired military members, Pennsylvania’s Department for Aging and Disability Services, and the Pennsylvania U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development