Refurbished stairlift vs new stairlift

Ruby Edwards • October 21, 2024

How do you know which is right for you?

Understanding your options

Stairlifts serve as vital solutions for individuals with mobility challenges, enabling them to navigate stairs safely and independently. Both new and refurbished stairlifts can fulfill this purpose, but they come with different advantages and considerations.

New stairlifts

A new stairlift typically offers the latest technology and features. Manufacturers often provide extensive warranties, ensuring peace of mind for buyers. For instance, new models might include advanced safety features, modern designs and enhanced comfort options. Additionally, purchasing a new stairlift means you can choose from a wide range of styles and configurations tailored to your home’s specific requirements.

Refurbished stairlifts

Refurbished stairlifts, such as the straight Stannah stairlifts available from Droitwich Stairlifts, present a cost-effective alternative. Each model has been thoroughly inspected, repaired and restored to ensure they meet safety and performance standards. Many customers find that refurbished stairlifts offer excellent value, providing many of the benefits of a new stairlift at a fraction of the price.

Simon Taylor, Managing Director of Droitwich Stairlifts, emphasises,

"Our refurbished straight Stannah and our renovated curved stairlifts are meticulously restored and offer reliable performance, making them a practical choice for many households in Droitwich and the surrounding areas. We also offer local outdoor solutions as well as maintenance and servicing."

Key considerations

When deciding between a refurbished or new stairlift, consider the following factors:

Budget: If you are working with a limited budget, refurbished stairlifts can significantly reduce costs while still providing necessary functionality. New stairlifts often come with higher price tags due to their advanced features and extended warranties.
Usage requirements: Assess your specific needs. If you can accommodate the initial investment, a new model may be suitable. However, a refurbished model can be an ideal solution for those on a budget or looking for a sustainable option.
Warranty and support: New stairlifts generally come with comprehensive warranties that protect your investment. Refurbished models may have shorter warranties, so it’s essential to understand the terms of the warranty before purchasing. Droitwich Stairlifts offers support for their refurbished models, ensuring that customers have access to assistance when needed - plus a warranty.
Installation and maintenance: The installation process for both new and refurbished stairlifts should be handled by professionals to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. After installation, maintenance is crucial for the longevity of the stairlift. Regular check-ups can help identify any issues before they become serious problems, regardless of whether you choose a new or refurbished model.
Aesthetics and design: If you have specific design preferences or want a stairlift that seamlessly integrates with your home’s decor, both new and refurbished stairlifts provide many options. Many refurbished stairlifts are available in various designs and colours, ensuring that you can still find a model that complements your home.

Making the right choice

Ultimately, the decision between a refurbished and a new stairlift depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. Either way, it’s crucial to evaluate your needs, budget and the specific features that matter most to you.

Visiting a local supplier like Droitwich Stairlifts allows you to explore your options in person and discuss your needs with knowledgeable staff. They can provide insights into the latest models and help you assess the benefits of refurbished straight Stannah stairlifts, curved options and compare to new alternatives.

Conclusion

Choosing the right stairlift is a significant decision that affects your mobility and quality of life. By carefully considering your needs and the advantages of both new and refurbished stairlifts, you can make an informed choice that best suits your situation. Whether you opt for a new model that you’d like us to service and maintain or a refurbished option that provides value and reliability, Droitwich Stairlifts is here to support you every step of the way.

For more information, call the team and discover the range of refurbished stairlift solutions available to meet your needs.

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How long does it take to install a stairlift?

By Taylor • April 2, 2026

Many people asking how long does it take to install a stairlift are often pleasantly surprised by the answer, as in most cases installation can be completed in just a few hours, with some stairlifts even fitted on the same day depending on the type and availability. For homeowners and families looking to restore mobility quickly, the process is designed to be fast, safe and minimally disruptive, with no major building work required in the vast majority of homes. Average stairlift installation time Understanding stairlift installation time helps set expectations and provides reassurance during what can feel like a significant decision. Straight stairlifts Straight stairlifts are the quickest to install and are ideal for staircases without bends or turns. In most homes, installation typically takes between 2 and 4 hours, as the rail is straightforward and does not require custom shaping. Because of their simplicity, straight stairlifts are often available for same day stairlift installation, allowing homeowners to regain independence almost immediately. Curved stairlifts Curved stairlifts are designed for staircases with turns, corners or intermediate landings. Due to their bespoke nature, the curved stairlift installation time is usually between 4 and 8 hours once the rail has been manufactured. The rail itself is custom-built to fit your staircase precisely, which adds time before installation but ensures a perfect fit and smooth operation. You can learn more about bespoke solutions on the curved stairlifts page: https://www.droitwichstairlifts.com/curved-stairlifts Importantly, even with curved stairlifts, structural changes to your home are rarely required. Factors that affect installation time While most stairlift fitting processes are completed quickly, several factors can influence how long stairlift installation takes. Type of staircase The layout of your staircase plays the biggest role. Straight staircases are quicker to fit, while curved or multi-landing staircases require more planning and a bespoke rail. Custom rail manufacturing For curved stairlifts, the rail must be measured and manufactured specifically for your home, which adds lead time before installation day but does not significantly extend the actual fitting process. Electrical setup Most stairlifts plug into a standard household socket, meaning no major electrical work is required, although ensuring a nearby power source can help speed up installation. Home accessibility Narrow staircases, tight corners or obstacles such as furniture may slightly increase installation time, although experienced installers will manage this efficiently. What happens during stairlift installation? The stairlift fitting process is straightforward and handled entirely by professional stairlift installers to ensure safety and reliability. A typical installation includes: A staircase survey and precise measurements Secure rail installation onto the stair treads rather than the wall Fitting of the stairlift chair unit Full safety testing and system checks A demonstration to ensure you feel confident using your stairlift Installers will always make sure everything is working perfectly before they leave, giving you complete peace of mind. Can a stairlift be installed the same day? In many cases, the answer to how quickly can a stairlift be installed is reassuringly fast. Same day stairlift installation is often possible when: A straight stairlift is suitable The model is in stock A survey can be completed quickly Choosing a local stairlift installer can make this process even faster, as response times and availability are typically much better than national providers. Will installation damage my stairs? A common concern is whether stairlift fitting will damage your home, but the process is designed to be minimally invasive. Stairlifts are fitted directly onto the stair treads rather than the wall, requiring only small fixings that can be easily removed if needed. This means your staircase remains structurally unchanged and any marks are minimal. How to prepare for stairlift installation Preparing your home in advance can help ensure a smooth and efficient installation. Simple steps include: Clearing items from the staircase Ensuring there is a nearby plug socket Allowing easy access for installers These small preparations can help reduce installation time and make the process even more seamless. Choosing a professional stairlift installer Selecting a trusted local provider is just as important as understanding stairlift installation time, as it ensures the job is completed safely and efficiently. Working with a specialist like Droitwich Stairlifts offers several benefits, including fast installation, expert advice and reliable aftercare support tailored to your needs. Professional installers will guide you through every step of the process, from initial enquiry to final demonstration, helping you regain independence with confidence. To explore your options further, speak to a local expert today to arrange a home assessment. For most homeowners, the answer to how long does stairlift installation take is reassuringly simple, as many stairlifts can be fitted in just a few hours, allowing you or your loved ones to enjoy improved mobility without delay.