If walking up and down stairs has become a challenge for you or a loved one, finding the right mobility solution can relieve stress and simplify day-to-day movement. The addition of a stair lift makes for a safe solution that can be quickly installed in the home.
As you research stair lifts, you may wonder whether you should purchase a stair lift or opt for a stair lift rental. When you know what factors to consider, making this decision becomes easier.
Learn more about making the rent vs. buy decision below!
Renting a Stair Lift: What to Consider
Thinking about renting a stair lift? Understanding typical rental requirements will help guide your decision. From your unique home layout to the fees associated with rentals, there are many stair lift rental factors. Keep the following elements in mind as you decide.
Your Staircase
First, determine whether a stair lift rental is an option in your home. The layout of your staircase will affect the type of stair chair lift you require. Most stair lift rental options come in a standard model ideal for a straight staircase with one landing at the top and one at the bottom. Naturally, this one-size-fits-all approach will not work for all staircases.
If you have a curved staircase, a narrow stairwell or a staircase with multiple landings, a stair lift rental may not be feasible. In this case, selecting a custom-built curved stair lift for your home is a safe and reliable choice.
Maintenance Coverage Plans
Even if you only need the stair lift for a short time, maintenance and repairs may be needed. Ensuring the stair chair lift is running smoothly is crucial to the user’s safety, so maintenance should not be taken lightly. If you are considering a stair lift rental, learn about the maintenance fees that the company charges.
In some cases, the maintenance fee will be included in the monthly rental fee. However, it is not uncommon for stair lift rental companies to charge additional fees for maintenance and repairs.
Because the inner workings of stair lifts are complex, you’ll need to rely on experienced technicians for mechanical repairs. So take time to learn about maintenance fees and options before making your decision.
How Long You Need the Lift
While it can be difficult to know the exact amount of time you’ll need the lift, it’s important to consider this factor. This can help simplify the stair lift rental vs. stair lift purchase decision.
For instance, if an elderly relative is coming to visit, renting a stair lift for a short time may be preferable to purchasing one. Installing a rental stair lift while recovering from surgery is also an option.
Keep in mind that stair lift rentals have a minimum time requirement that typically falls between three to six months. So, if you decide to rent a stair chair lift, you’ll pay for the initial installation and the monthly fee for the required amount of months set by the company, even if you’re no longer using the lift.
Buying a Stair Lift: What to Consider
The alternative to renting a stair lift is buying one outright. While the upfront cost of purchasing a stair lift is higher, there are certain situations in which homeowners save money by purchasing. Additionally, buying offers flexibility and other benefits that rentals cannot. To make an informed decision, read on.
Long-term Savings
One common misconception about purchasing a stair lift is that it is always more expensive than renting. This is not the case. In many instances, buying a stair lift turns out to be a financially wise move. For example, if an individual needs the lift for longer than expected, there is no additional monthly fee that adds up over time.
Additionally, purchasing a reconditioned stair lift is a cost-effective solution. Because these lifts have been previously owned, they may have features and modifications that standard rental stair lifts do not. With a reconditioned stair lift, you avoid the monthly fees of renting and have the opportunity to find more options than rental companies can offer.
At Arrow Lift, we offer financing options for stair lift purchases. If you’re a homeowner, you may qualify for this option. Our stair lift experts can walk you though the simple qualification process during your free in-home consultation.
Customization
Today, there are many safety features, color options and other customizable facets that stair lifts offer. When you purchase a stair lift, you can take advantage of these tailored features. Whether you need a chair that automatically swivels at the top landing or a certain type of seat belt for added safety, you can create the lift that is built exactly for you.
The ability to customize extends to the railing of the stair chair lift as well. For instance, a very long staircase or one that curves will need more than the one size fits all model that stair lift rental companies offer. Knowing that the mobility solution is built to suit your needs is one major advantage of purchasing a stair chair lift.
Flexibility on Your Terms
When you purchase a stair lift, you are in control, not a rental company. If you want the lift removed, you don’t have to worry about removal fees. At Arrow Lift, any new stair lift that we install is available for removal, free of charge. On top of this, we sometimes offer buybacks on stair lifts. This is beneficial for homeowners who end up needing the lift for less time than anticipated.
On the other hand, if you end up needing the lift longer than anticipated, purchasing a stair lift is a one and done payment. When you purchase your stair lift, there’s no need to pay ongoing monthly rental fees or pay removal fees that some rental companies charge.
Don’t Settle For an Average Stair Lift. Find Your Ideal Stair Lift Today.
If you need help making a decision, Arrow Lift is here to help. At Arrow Lift, providing you with top tier stair lifts and excellent customer service is our priority.
Our 35 years in business have taught us how to address unique needs and discover the best solution for each client. Experience the Arrow Lift difference today by visiting one of our showroom locations or booking a free, in-home consultation.
