How to Remove a Stairlift from Your Home
Stairlift removal may become necessary for a number of reasons, but arrangements should always be made for a professional stairlift removal service to come and remove it. Regardless of the reason for removal, knowing how to remove a stairlift safely is vitally important.
Our professional stairlift removal service teams in Denver and Boulder, Colorado, take care of the removal process for unwanted stairlifts. This avoids damaging the machine or your property, or causing an injury. If you're just looking to replace the chair on your stairlift, it’s possible to do it yourself.
Stairlift Removal Steps
If you need a stairlift removed, make an appointment with our stairlift removal service professionals to avoid injury to yourself and damage to your home.
This is an overview of what will happen during the stairlift removal process:
Disconnect the stairlift from the power outlet.
Remove the chair.
Detach the rail.
Unscrew the mounting brackets from the stair treads.
The process takes about two hours from start to finish.
How to Remove the Stairlift Chair
You may be able to remove a stairlift chair without professional help. However, moving heavy objects can cause accidents. Ask for assistance if necessary.
Follow these instructions to remove the chair:
Switch on the stairlift.
Move the chair manually to the end of its track, at the bottom of the stairs, if possible.
Switch the stairlift off.
Remove the limiter. You will find this at the top of the track. You shouldn't need tools for this, as limiters can be removed by pulling and dislodging them from the track.
Remove the screws found on the outer panel of the chair.
Release the chair lock. This is usually found under the chair. Flick the switch to an unlocked position to release the chair.
Remove the chair. They can be heavy, so make sure you have help to avoid accidents.
Reasons for Stairlift Removal
There are multiple reasons to remove stairlifts:
Replacing an old one with a newer model
Removing an unneeded one that came with the new home you purchased
No longer needing the one you previously installed
Ask about our "buy back" offer, as we may pay you in some cases to remove your unneeded stairlift.
With 27 percent of the US population falling under the “disabled” umbrella, and less than 5 percent of housing being considered accessible, many folks are living in homes that are not suited to them. Stairlifts are great mobility aids for those in multi-story homes. They’re much easier and more cost-effective to install than relocating to a single-story house or installing an elevator.
Removing an old or broken stairlift to install a new one helps to ensure continued safety and independence at home.
FAQ
Do companies remove existing stairlifts when you purchase a new one?
Many companies will offer the removal of existing stairlifts when you purchase a new model from them. However, the cost of the new stairlift will typically remain the same (you won’t generally get a discount as you might when you trade in a used car).
Our teams in Denver and Boulder remove old or unwanted stairlifts, even if you aren’t purchasing a new one. Please contact us for a quote, which will depend on size, make, model, and age.
What happens to the stairlift when it's removed?
Companies specializing in stairlift removals will likely take the stairlift away with them or give you the option to keep the stairlift. If you prefer for the company to take it, they'll typically take it to a recycling facility to be disposed of responsibly. In some cases, they will buy the stairlift off you and resell it or use its components.
If your lift is fully functioning, you have various options. You could donate it to charity or give it to somebody you know who needs one. If you decide to sell it second-hand, check the value of your stairlift to ensure you’re charging a reasonable price. The buyer or gift recipient should be informed of the importance of professional installation. It’s also good to measure and prepare information about your stairlift for the recipient.
Please note: If you don't ask a professional company to dispose of your stairlift, you are responsible for disposing of it properly. Find out about recycling facilities in your area that accept stairlifts and recycle their recoverable components.
How long does it take to remove a stairlift?
Both straight and curved models should be removed by fully qualified technicians. This typically takes around two hours, but can even be done in less than one hour if the removal is straightforward.
Can I remove a stairlift myself?
Attempting to remove your stairlift yourself isn't recommended. A stairlift is a heavy, electrical device that can be dangerous if not handled correctly. Additionally, you can easily damage your home or the device itself if you try to remove the stairlift incorrectly. If you need a stairlift removed, make an appointment with stairlift service professionals at a time that’s convenient for you.
How much does removing a stairlift cost?
Removal fees will vary depending on several factors, including location. Removal costs in Colorado may differ from those in other states, but are generally between $200 and $500. If you simply wish to have an old stairlift removed, finding the best deal might be a question of shopping around. However, if the stairlift has some value, you may be able to negotiate. For example:
Some companies may be able to buy the stairlift from you if it has any resale value.
Other companies may be able to remove stairlifts at a minimal cost.
Stairlift rental typically includes the cost of removal once the rental period is up.
Is a curved model more difficult to remove than a straight stairlift?
Removing a curved stairlift potentially takes longer than removing a straight lift, and the stairlift itself is more difficult to remove and haul away. However, experienced technicians won't have any problem removing curved stairlifts.
If you're hoping to sell your curved stairlift second-hand, you may find that there's little demand for it as it needs to match the dimensions and curve of the original buyer’s staircase. You may have more luck selling individual parts.
What happens to the stairs when a stairlift is removed?
Stair removal usually leaves behind minimal damage, which you can fix yourself or hire a handyman to help with. The rail is attached to the steps, not the wall, so there will only be screw holes on the steps and carpet indentation if your stairs are carpeted. Holes are easily filled with putty or plugs, and carpet can be restored.
Leave Stairlift Removal to Trained Technicians
Though you may be tempted to remove your stairlift alone, getting the help of a professional is extremely advisable. A professional will help you remove the lift safely (without unnecessary damage to your home) and arrange for the proper disposal of your lift.
If you decide to keep a stairlift you’ve removed, you can donate it, sell it second-hand, or take it to a recycling facility. However, if you pass it on to someone else (with or without compensation), they should have the stairlift inspected, serviced, and installed by an experienced technician. The railing or track you used is unlikely to be a perfect fit for the next person's home.