FAQ's
What is a stair lift and how does it work?
- Stair lift chairs are suitable for every situation with straight or curved stair cases in a residence or public building. The stair lift is equipped with your safety and ease of operating in mind. Stair lifts are designed with all of the following features:
- Most stair chair lift systems are equipped with sturdy armrests, a swivel lever, and a safety belt. All of these safety features are designed for your comfort and ease of use.
- The stair chair lift can be folded to save space when not in use. Usually the stair chair lift will take approximately 1/2 the space of the stairwell when folded in someone's home.
- Stair chair lift systems generally mount to directly to the stairs.
- "Continuous Pressure" control switch on the stair lift armrest so you can rise and descend at your own control.
- Remote controls can be mounted on the wall at the top and bottom of the stair case to call your lift to you. Some customers choose to leave them free on a table in a residential application.
- Some systems are equipped with Rechargeable Batteries that enable the stair lift to work during power outages.
- Other systems are available to be ordered in A/C for applications like churches, public buildings, and commercial applications. Some private residents prefer A/C over batteries when they have underground utilities or a backup generator.
- Home stair lift chairs comply with all safety requirements. There are no special building alterations needed and the stair lift can be installed on the right side or left side of the stair case. Installation of the stair lift chairs can usually be done in one day.
Why Buy a Stair Lift?
- Stair Lifts are a great fit for any application in which you have limited mobility concerns. If the stairs have become dangerous, but you are able to easily use the chair, this product is a great choice.
What's the best way to select a stair lift?
- You need to consider the physical ability of the person using the stair chair. Another important factor is the suitability of the stairs where the lift will be installed.
What is the weight capacity of a stair lift?
- Several models will comfortably fit almost anyone up to 500lbs.
What width do my stairs need to be for a stair lift?
- If your stairs are at least 32" between the minimum obstructions, you should be able to fit almost any lift.
How does a stair lift keep you safe at the top of the stairs?
- Any reputable stair lift company makes a lift that swivels away from the stairs at the top.
We have 2 straight sets of stair with a landing in the middle. Is it cheaper to install 2 straight stair chairs or one curved one?
- Two straight stair lifts are much more cost effective. The person(s) using the lift will need to transfer on the landing to the second lift. On average a curved stair chair is double or more of two straight rails.
Why does each stair lift have a different mechanism?
- Each manufacturer makes their own equipment and can't copy certain things about another product.
How much space does a stair lift take up on my stairs?
- Stair chair lifts take up anywhere from 11-20 inches on average when folded. It really depends on the size and capacity of the chair.
How do stair chair lifts attach?
- All models attach directly to the stairs and not the wall.
How do battery operated stair chair lift units recharge themselves?
- Battery operated units recharge themselves when placed on a charging strip usually located on the ends of the track. Most are made to automatically stop on the chargers. Some units have charging contacts continuously throughout the rail.
How often do batteries need to be replaced on a stair lift?
- Most new batteries will last between 1-5 years. Most manufacturers recommend the units get daily exercise to keep them active.
What exactly is a walk-in bathtub?
- Walk-in bathtubs are a special type of bathtub with a door or opening door. The design of the tub allows the user to easily bathe without the risk of falling. The doors swing in or out, depending on the model. Some tubs are designed for wheelchair access. Accessories are available depending on the safety concerns
Why buy a walk in bathtub?
- If you or a loved one is among the countless number of people who cannot take a bath because of lack of accessibility a walk in tub is probably the right decision. Walk in Bathtubs are known to help with common health pains by massaging muscles and increasing blood flow with certain types of water and bubble flow systems.
Does Medicare or insurance pay for residential/home lifts or elevators?
- Medicare does not, however some independent insurance companies may cover part or all of the cost. Please contact your insurance carrier for information.
What is a home elevator?
- An elevator or vertical lift is a vertical transport vehicle that efficiently moves people or goods between floors of a building. If you are looking to add value to your home or business while adding convenience to your lifestyle than a home elevator or lift is perfect for you. Anything else I should know about elevators?
- An Elevator can add 10% to your home value *Based on US national home value average
- Are the next "must have' home amenity- According to a 2004 NAHB Study
- 91,000 new home buyers in 2003 felt home elevators were an essential inclusion to their home design
- Require low maintenance- similar to a furnace or air conditioner
- A stairway may require as much as 100 square feet of space, while a home elevator can use as little as 24 square feet
- You are almost one million times more likely to be injured going up and down your stairs than you are on a home elevator
- Each of our elevators comes equipped with all the safety features you expect.
Who builds the necessary hoist way for my elevator?
- We offer turn-key elevator service. We can build your hoistway and install your elevator. We know our machines and can save you time and money.
What is an auto lift?
- It is an automated lift that fits onto your automobile. Auto lifts help to get you and your wheelchair or scooter into your vehicle safely. Each lift is designed for a specific automobile and chair.
What if I need help installing my auto lift?
- We have a full service station where we will completely install your auto lift in a timely manner. Transitions Mobility & Elevator doesn't install hitches at this time but we can direct you to a qualified hitch installer
What is a solid ramp and folding ramp?
- Transitions Mobility & Elevator solid ramps feature a rigid design for a safe, solid feel. Designed to create a path over smaller elevation changes and offer a rigid design for a safe, solid feel. Folding Ramps are designed to fold and store when not in use.
What if I already have a lift, tub or elevator and I need of parts and service?
- Transitions Mobility & Elevator carries a full line of replacement parts for all of our products. We also service all products that we sell regardless of whether or not we installed the product or it was purchased thru our company.
What is a bath lift?
- Bath lifts are designed to help you enjoy you current bathtub without costly remodeling. Most models will lower you into your bathtub using a hand-held remote and lift you out when you are finished.
What is a pool lift?
- Pool lifts are used to help mobility challenged people access a swimming pool. Each pool lift is designed differently and installation varies. Some pool lifts are completely mobile and can be easily removed and stored when not in use.
What is a vertical inclined lift?
- Vertical Inclined Lifts are designed for easy wheelchair access to stairs without the cost of construction involved in building a hoist way for an Elevator or Vertical Platform Lift. These units are foldable allowing maximum usable space on the stairway when not in use. Transitions Mobility & Elevator carries Vertical Inclined Lifts that vary in speed, lifting capacity, and size. These units can be designed for commercial or residential spaces.
What is a vertical platform lift?
- Porch lifts / vertical platform lifts move the passenger from one level to another level in a vertical manner. The wheel chair lift makes it possible to travel the shortest way between two levels inside or outside. A wheelchair stair lift is much the same as a stair lift chair but it has a platform to accommodate a wheelchair or power chair. Transitions Mobility & Elevator has a stair lift elevator solution to any housing and mobility situations.
What are the standard features of a wheelchair lift?
- The standard features of a wheelchair lift are: anti-slip mat, fold-up seat, self closing doors, push buttons to call the lift, a key switch to prevent unauthorized use.
- Vertical Platform lifts can be installed inside or outside. Transitions Mobility & Elevator will supply job specific plans for you lift before any construction or installation begins.