How to Remove a Stairlift from Your Home
Stairlift removal can be necessary for a number of reasons. Whether you've purchased a home with a stairlift (chair lift) you don't need, you no longer require a stairlift you installed, or you wish to upgrade to a newer model, knowing how to remove a stairlift safely is an important consideration.
Ideally, only professional stairlift removal services such as our team in Denver, Colorado should take care of the removal of an unwanted stairlift to avoid damaging the machine or your property or causing an injury. However, if you're just looking to replace the chair on your stairlift, you may be able to attempt it yourself.
How to Remove a Stairlift
76% of people who are 50 or older want to stay in their homes for as long as possible. Stairlifts can be a big part of this for people who live in multi-story homes. Removing an old or broken stairlift to install a new one helps to ensure elderly or disabled people's continuing mobility and independence at home.
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.
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 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 lift off.
Remove the limiter. You can 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.
FAQs
These are a few frequently asked questions about stairlift removal:
Do Companies Remove Existing Stair Lifts When You Purchase a New One?
Many companies will offer the removal of existing stairlifts when you purchase a new model with 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). Mobility Plus in Denver does offer the removal of old or unwanted stairlifts even if you aren’t purchasing a new one. Please contact them 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.
If your lift is fully functioning, you have various options. You could donate it to charity, give it to somebody you know who may need it, or even sell it second-hand. The buyer or gift recipient should be informed of the importance of professional installation.
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 can accept stairlifts and recycle their recoverable components.
How Much Does Removing a Stairlift Cost?
Removal costs will vary depending on several factors, including location. Removal costs in Colorado may differ from other states. 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 sell-on value.
Other companies may be able to remove stairlifts at a minimal cost.
Is a Curved Model More Difficult to Remove than a Straight Stairlift?
Removing a curved stairlift can potentially take 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 on a curved stairlift, you may find that there's little demand for it because the dimensions and curve of the buyer’s staircase would need to be the same as yours. You may have more luck selling individual parts.
Leave Stairlift Removal to the Professionals
Though you may be tempted to remove your stairlift alone, getting the help of a professional is extremely advisable. A professional can help you remove the lift safely—without unnecessary damage to your home—and can 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 in your home is unlikely a perfect fit for the next person's home.