Do Stairlifts Work During a Power Outage?
Power outages can be very inconvenient. They can stop you from getting on with your life until the power comes back on. That might be manageable when it comes to things like kitchen appliances, but it certainly is not the case for your stairlift. You do not want to be stuck halfway up your stairs in the dark or unable to travel between floors if you lose electricity.
In this guide, we answer important questions such as:
Do stairlifts work when the lights go out?
How does your stairlift battery work?
How long does the battery last during a power outage?
What should you do when the power returns?
How do I purchase a reliable stairlift?
Related Article: Types of Stairlift Batteries and Signs for Replacement
When the Lights Go Out, Will Your Stairlift Still Work?
Stannah stairlifts don’t stop when your lights go out because they are fitted with batteries that are constantly trickle-charged from an outlet near your stairs. If the main power supply cuts out, the batteries take over and get you safely to your destination. The batteries charge automatically when the chair is stopped at a charging point, so you will never get stuck. Stannah lifts also come with two remote controls, one at the top and the other at the bottom of your stairs. If your chair is on a different floor, you can call it using the control.
How Your Stairlift Battery Keeps You Moving
Stannah stairlifts use rechargeable batteries that are constantly charged when the chair is parked at a charging point. These batteries are specifically designed for stairlifts and have flame retardant cases for safety.
The batteries in your Stannah stairlift consist of two 12V 7Ah sealed VRLA (Valve Regulated Lead Acid) batteries wired in series to power a 24V DC motor. For longer staircases over 39 feet or our heavy-duty models, two 12V 12Ah batteries provide the extra power needed.
How Long Will the Battery Last if the Power’s Out?
In the event of a power outage, a fully charged stairlift battery will typically last for around 15 to 20 trips up and down the stairs. However, it is best to conserve battery power during an outage by only using the lift when absolutely necessary.
To maximize battery life, keep your stairlift turned off when not in use during a power outage. There is an isolator switch on the chair that allows you to power it down to preserve the batteries.
Remember, it is important to always return the stairlift to a charging point when not in use. Doing so ensures the batteries stay topped up and ready to go whenever you need to use your lift.
What To Do When the Power Comes Back On
Once power is restored to your home after an outage, your Stannah stairlift will automatically begin recharging its batteries when parked at a charge point.
If you had proactively switched the stairlift off at the isolator switch to conserve power, be sure to turn it back on once electricity returns to your home. This will allow the chair to charge up again, ready to keep you moving.
We recommend leaving the stairlift parked on a charge point for an extended time after an outage to let the batteries fully recharge before using it again. The charging system will ensure the batteries receive an optimal charge without risk of overcharging.
Reliable Stairlifts That Keep You Moving From Stannah
For over 40 years, Stannah has been redefining stairlift standards to promote independence and remove barriers to aging in place. We understand that a stairlift is a tool that can enhance your confidence, increase your autonomy, and provide peace of mind for you and your family.
With thoughtful features like the battery backup system, you can count on your Stannah stairlift to keep you moving, even when the power goes out unexpectedly. With the safe, fire-retardant batteries and the easy charging system, your Stannah is designed to be reliable and easy to use. Our skilled technicians provide regular maintenance to ensure your lift and batteries stay in top condition. We are proud to keep people moving and living independently in their homes.
Ready to experience the life-changing benefits of a Stannah stairlift for yourself? Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation home survey and get a personalized quote. Our friendly experts are ready to help you rediscover the joy of independent living.
Resources:
Do you know how little space a stairlift takes up on your stairs?
A stairlift folds up when it’s not in use, so that other people can keep using your stairs. Are you worried about your stairlift being conspicuous? Don’t be.
Do you rely on help from other people to use the stairs?
Imagine being able to use them on your own. Being able to get around your house independently, whenever you feel like it.
Do you know how much a stairlifts costs to run?
Compare it to the cost of a coffee maker. Think about how essential it is for you to get around safely, and how much that’s worth to you.
