Everything you need to know about stairlift batteries

Yes. Modern stairlifts are battery-powered and recharged when sitting at their charging points. Some older models are mains powered and have no batteries. 

During a power cut, the stairlift batteries will continue to work. Fully charged batteries are good for at least 15 to 20 rides up and down your stairs, though if you have a powered swivel, you will need to use the manual swivel lever.

For most brands, stairlift batteries don’t need special checks but make sure your stairlift is never left too long off its charging point. Simply park the stairlift at its correct position and the system will recognise and deliver only the charge necessary to top up the batteries to full capacity. Do not turn off power at the socket or spur this will cause battery to deplete more than necessary and shorten the life of the battery.

During a service visit, the stairlift engineer will check the current battery chargers and voltage, using battery testers to measure if the batteries are charging correctly. These tests will show if a replacement is needed or if a current stairlift battery is not charging.

If your batteries run low, there’ll be no buzzing alarm system or flashing lights. Instead, you’ll see one or more of the following: 

 - Your stairlift will go slower than its usual pace or gradually slow as the upward journey progresses

 - Your stairlift will stop after a short distance and then continue

 - The battery won’t charge at its usual charging point (this means the stairlift battery has been completely drained)

Your local service branch will need to replace the batteries at any of these signs.

The stairlift charging system will trickle charge the batteries as required, this system will prolong the life of the battery. However once the battery fails to hold sufficient charge it has reach its end of life and must be replaced.

Stairlift batteries generally last around 2 to 5 years; of course, this depends on the usage. For example, if the stairlift is often left off its charge point, it reduces battery life.

Never attempt to replace a stairlift battery yourself; let a fully trained stairlift engineer take care of it as you risk voiding your cover. 

Our engineers keep fully approved battery stock in their vans to get your stairlift back up and running. They’ll also ensure the safe and correct disposal of old ones. After battery replacement, we check the stairlift thoroughly and ensure no other parts could be causing an issue. 

Batteries do not last indefinitely. Regular servicing by Stannah engineer will ensure batteries are checked and condition monitored. When it is time to replace them you will be notified by our service engineer.

Batteries and fitting are typically covered on a warranty or 5-star service contract, but expect a charge on lesser contracts. Stannah will safely and correctly dispose of old batteries - so you don't have to worry about them.

Don't be tempted by cheaper alternatives. Choosing non-manufacturer-approved batteries can; damage your stairlift, affect the performance, and may not be fume and fire retardant.

All the batteries Stannah keep as van stock are manufacturer-approved, fully fire retardant, safety marked and have a 2-year warranty.

Stannah stairlifts use UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certified batteries that meet the requirements of stairlift standards. All batteries have flame retardant cases and are compliant with UL94 V0 flame classifications.

No, however, all batteries store electrical power and must be treated with care. The batteries we use on our products comply with the highest safety standards and unlike recent fires created by batteries in the news won’t overcharge.