Stair lifts require regular maintenance and repairs so you can use them in your home. Below, I’ll discuss stair lift repair in Leawood, Kansas, to help you recognize the signs your stair lift needs maintenance or repair.
“Stair lift repair should often be done by professionals because there are so many moving parts. We have a niche skill that allows us to repair your stair lift quickly while ensuring it’s safe for you to use,” says David Bangert, a certified stair lift professional and owner of Independent Home Solutions.
Read on to learn more about stair lift repairs and learn how to identify when you can do it yourself and when you need professional help.
Standard stair lift repairs
Stair lift repairs often fall into one of these categories:
- Power and electrical
- Mechanical
- Control system
- Safety features
1. Power and electrical issues
One of the most common stair lift issues is the electrical wiring and power supply. A stair lift may struggle with battery failure or a degrading battery, but these are easy to replace. You should replace the battery every two to three years.
Stair lifts may have problems with the power supply, which can stem from electrical wiring or other parts of the device. They may also struggle with the charging system; some have been known to malfunction. These are all issues for which you’ll want to have professional help.
2. Mechanical elements
A stair lift has many mechanical components, including the motor, gearbox, seat swivel mechanism, footrest, armrest, track, and rail. These parts may require repair, some you may be able to fix on your own, for example, fixing a loose screw on a footrest, while others may have electrical writing that experts don’t recommend fiddling with.
Since there are so many stair lift parts, deciding what you can fix on your own and when you need expert help can be tricky. You can always call our team at 913-228-3039 to discuss the issues with you.
3. Control system errors
Mobility devices like stair lifts are often more complex than other household appliances. Common control system issues may include remote control malfunction, the call or send controls not working, circuit board failures, or safety sensor issues.
You may be able to fix remote control issues on your own by replacing the batteries or ensuring the connectivity, but experts should repair most control system issues.
4. Safety feature issues
Safety features like obstruction sensors, seat belts and harnesses, emergency stop buttons, and safety edges not working properly should alert you to safety feature issues.
Simple fixes like replacing a seat belt or harness may be done on your own, but more complex fixes like obstruction sensors and the emergency stop button will likely require help from a professional.
Frequently asked questions about stair lift repair
Are stair lift repairs expensive?
Some stair lift repairs may be expensive, but many parts may be covered by your stair lift warranty (if you’re the original owner). Problems that aren’t covered include electrical issues, which may be related to power, the control system, and the labor to repair the stair lift.
According to Dave Bangert, owner of Independent Home Services serving the Leawood area, “on average, a service call is $175 for people within 40 miles and $225 if you are outside 40 miles,” and the service call starting point is 11205 E Bannister Rd, KCMO.
What do stair lift warranties 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.
Stair lift warranties do not cover the cost of labor for repairs, but often cover the parts and pieces.
Who can I call for stair lift repair in Leawood, KS?
You can call Independent Home Solutions for help with stairlift repairs in Leawood, Kansas. Why us? Just check our Google reviews. Call us at 913-228-3039.
We’re also available to help those in the surrounding areas, including Fairway, Kansas City, Lenexa, Mission, Mission Hills, Overland Park, Olathe, Prairie Village, Shawnee, Roeland Park, and Westwood in Kansas and Blue Springs, Belton, Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Independence, Kansas City, Liberty, North Kansas City, Pleasant Hill, Raymore, Raytown, and Waldo in Missouri.
What should I do if my stair lift stops working?
We recommend checking the power source if your stair lift stops working out of the blue. Replace any batteries if needed, including those in the stair lift and the remote. Once you’ve done that and tried basic troubleshooting, you may need to call in the experts.
Can I repair a stair lift myself?
You can repair some stair lift features or components on your own, such as replacing batteries, a seat belt, or other simple fixes. That said, many components of the mobility device require specialized knowledge to ensure you can continue using the device safely.
What is the lifespan of a stair lift?
Most stair lifts run for an average of ten years, but with regular service and maintenance, they may run for many years longer. The best way to keep your stair lift running is to get it repaired whenever there’s an issue and have regular maintenance.
What stair lift repairs does the Bruno warranty cover?
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. They also provide an initial two-year warranty covering the entire machine and a 30-day labor guarantee for workmanship and defects during installation.
Do stair lifts come with a free warranty?
Yes, stair lifts come with free warranties from the manufacturer at purchase. Stair lift dealers should be able to tell you all about the provided warranties and how long they last.
How do you find a reliable stair lift company in Leawood?
To find a reliable stair lift company, you should always review its website and ratings, ensure it offers warranties, and speak to other customers if possible.
