In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about stair lift repair in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, from major concerns like power and electrical issues, to when to call in the professionals, and what you can fix on your own.
Stair lift repairs
Main types of stair lift repairs include:
- Power and electrical
- Control system
- Mechanical elements
- Safety features
- Carriage and seat
1. Power and electrical
Issues with the power of electrical wiring can be one of the most significant issues people deal with. From battery degradation to a blown fuse in the power supply, a lot can go wrong. There may be damage to wiring, loose connections, or even water damage or issues with the charging system, including circuit board failures.
Unfortunately, most power or electrical issues are something you can’t fix on your own. There is one thing homeowners can do, which is to switch out the battery every two to three years. If you use your stair lift often, the batteries will diminish over time, and you’ll need to replace them earlier rather than later.
2. Control systems
Stair lifts often have multiple control systems to ensure those with mobility issues can use them safely. Remote controls may malfunction due to damaged buttons, signal transmission errors, water damage, or pairing issues.
Other controls, such as the call/send button or safety sensors, will typically need to be looked at by an expert. Circuit board failures are another common problem that requires expert help.
3. Mechanical elements
Mechanical failures like a motor burning out from age, a gear stripping, or other internal damage indicate the need for a new motor. Tracks and rails may suffer from damage, such as coming loose, getting bent, or misalignment. You may fix this on your own.
Footrests, armrests, and the swivel seat mechanisms are other mechanical parts. Some of the issues, such as the footrest and armrest, which may have a broken folding mechanism, a cracked piece, or loose attachments, may be something you can fix on your own.
You should leave problems with the gearbox or motor to the experts.
4. Safety features
Stair lifts come with a slew of safety features that ensure those with mobility problems can move around their homes safely. These can include malfunctioning obstruction sensors, harnesses, seat belts, safety edges, and emergency stop buttons.
A professional should repair most safety features, but installing a new harness or seat belt can be done independently.
5. Carriage and seat
The seat portion of a stair lift is very important, but may experience damage such as wear and tear to the upholstery, carriage alignment problems, jerky movement while operating, and seat positioning issues.
While many of these don’t compromise the safety of a stair lift, they can be annoying. Homeowners can often correct issues such as upholstery damage and seat positioning, while jerky movements during operation will need to be addressed by a professional.
Frequently asked questions: Stair lift repair
Who can I call for stair lift repair in Lancaster, PA?
If you need stair lift repair in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, call our team at 717-393-8213. We service the Lancaster area and surrounding areas, including Harrisburg, Reading, and York.
Is stair lift repair expensive?
Some stair lift repairs may be expensive, depending on the parts or labor associated with each repair. The free warranty may cover stair lift parts, but labor is not included.
Dan Mitchell, owner of Independent Home Solutions in Lancaster, PA, shares that most homeowners can expect an “average local service call costs $175 for homeowners within 40 miles, $195 for those outside 40 miles, and $250 if another company installed the stair lift.”
Will my warranty cover stair lift repairs?
Stair lift warranties will typically cover the parts or pieces that need to be replaced, but not the labor for the repair. For example, if a stair lift dealer says the gearbox needs to be replaced, the warranty may cover the cost of the new gearbox, but it will not pay for the stair lift repair labor.
What should I do if there’s something wrong with my stair lift?
If there’s something wrong with your stair lift, we recommend disconnecting it from the power source for a few minutes and then switching it back on. Check the battery in the stair lift and the remote to see if those need to be replaced, which should be done every one to three years, depending on usage.
If this doesn’t help, you can use your stair lift manual and follow the troubleshooting guide. For stair lift repairs, work with experts to ensure your safety.
Can I repair stair lifts myself?
There will be some stair lift repairs you can do on your own, such as replacing batteries, installing a new seat belt or harness, and even updating the upholstery. A professional should complete other repairs to ensure safety.
What is the lifespan of a stair lift?
Stair lifts run an average of ten years, but you can prolong the life of your stairlift by getting regular maintenance and service.
Does a Bruno warranty cover common stair lift repairs?
Bruno’s Limited Lifetime Warranty covers major components (motor, gearbox, and static rail) for indoor stair lifts as long as the original buyer owns them, and five years for outdoor stair lifts. Bruno’s warranties typically do not cover the cost of having someone fix the stair lift.
They also provide an initial two-year warranty covering the entire machine and a 30-day labor guarantee for workmanship and defects during installation.
What does a Bruno warranty cover?
Bruno, the stair lift unit we install at Independent Home Solutions, offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty on all stair lift models. The warranty covers all major components (gearbox, static rail, and motor) for the entire life of an indoor stairlift when owned by the original purchaser and five years for outdoor stair lifts.
Do stair lifts come with a free warranty?
Yes, manufacturers generally offer free warranties on stair lifts. These typically cover large components like the rail, gearbox, or motor.
How do you find a reliable stair lift company in Lancaster?
When looking for businesses to work with online, you should do your research before ringing them and inviting them to your home. Read reviews, check their website, and ensure it’s a legitimate business.
