Stairlift Glossary
Stairlift Glossary
- Choice of Control
- DC Battery Power
- Diagnostic Digital Display
- Electronic and Mechanical Braking Systems
- Fold Up Seat and Footrests
- Heavy Duty
- Limit Sensors
- Lockable Isolation Switch
- Overhang
- Overspeed Governor
- Pressure Sensitive Safety Surfaces
- Rack and Pinion Drive
- Seat Belt
- Slim-line Design
- Soft Start and Stop Technology
- Stand or Perch
- Swivel Seat
- Whisper Quiet Operation
Paddle Switch
Choice of Control
Stairlifts have two kinds of control; a paddle switch or an infra-red remote. The paddle switch is normally located at the end of the seat arms on the stairlift itself, whereas the infra-red remote control is detached. This means the user can send the stairlift up and down the stairs using the remote control allowing more than one user.
Diagnostic Digital Display
The digital display shows clearly when the lift is in the normal operating position. It also provides invaluable diagnostic information in the event of a fault with the stairlift.
DC Battery Power
This ensures that the stairlift does not trail an electrical cable behind it, but is self powered. This ensures that is there is a mains power cut, the stairlift will continue functioning correctly. When the stairlift comes to rest, the battery will start charging. A fully charge battery will power 15-20 trips up and down the stairs.
Electronic and Mechanical Braking Systems
Double safety systems mean that the stairlift is unable to descend unexpectedly or at speed.
Fold Up Seat and Footrest
The stairlift has a fold up seat and footrest which allows other users of the stairs to use them as normal.
Heavy Duty
Specially designed for individuals who are between 280lbs (20 stones) and 350lbs (25 stones).
Lockable Isolation Switch
The stairlift can be locked using a key so that unauthorised users, such as children, are unable to use the stairlift. The stairlift still charges when it is locked.
Limit Sensors
At the end of either an ascent or descent, the stairlift will come to a ‘soft stop’ due to the limit sensors. These ensure that the stairlift always stops in the correct position.
Overhang
If the stairlift overhangs at the top of the stairs there will be an extra piece of track that protrudes onto the landing.
Overspeed Governor
This controls the speed of the stairlift so there is no danger of a sudden or rapid descent.
Pressure Sensitive Safety Surfaces
Pressure Sensitive Safety Surfaces
There are sometimes safety surfaces on stairlifts that stop them if there is an obstruction on the stairway. These are located around the top and bottom of the carriage and around the footrest.
Rack and Pinion Drive
The track uses this secure rail structure to provide smooth and stable movement up and down the stairs.
Seat Belt
To enable users of the stairlift are safe and secure, they come with seatbelts. These can be inertia reel lap harnesses or a 3-point, fixed, over-shoulder harness.
Slim-line Design
The stairlift can fold away, allowing full use of the stairs as normal.
Soft Start and Stop Technology
The upward and downward movement begins smoothly and slowly, without jarring or sudden stops.
Standing Stairlift
Stand or Perch
This stairlift allows users to perch or stand while travelling up and down the stairs. This makes it ideal for those who have trouble bending their knees.
Swivel Seat
The seat swivels so that the user can get on and off the stairlift easily. However, the seat does lock to prevent accidental slipping.
Whisper Quiet Operation
The stairlift is whisper quiet when in operation. This ensures that anyone else in the house isn’t disturbed when it’s in use.