Stairlifts come in many different styles, so choosing the one that works best for you or your loved one is important. The biggest difference between the various stair lifts revolves around the power source for the movement of the apparatus. One of the most popular options is an electrically-powered stair lift. These devices work on the same power source that runs any plug-in receptacle in your home. They can also be used for outdoor stair lifts and are completely safe in all types of environmental conditions. There are specialized stair lifts designed for unsheltered outdoor areas, making them truly durable and long-lasting options.

Electrical stair lifts are mounted directly to the wall of the home and are powered by a cable and motor system. The controls to work the stair lift are located on the chair component of the system, and many have additional features, such as carrying racks and even baskets to allow transport of items up and down the stairway, such as a lift chair. These additional features are a real plus for busy people and can certainly make living without assistance in a home a very real scenario when getting up and down stairs is the only concern.

There is one drawback to the electric-powered chairs in that in the case of a power outage or failure the stair lift does not operate. For a great number of residences, a power outage is a very rare occurrence and really is not a factor in making a decision. The alternative to an electric stair lift is a battery-powered unit.

Battery-powered stair lifts operate the same as an electrical unit and also offer all the additional features. These stair lifts are powered by batteries that are actually connected to an electrical outlet in your home. In this way, the home electrical supply continuously charges the batteries so you never need to worry about having power. If the power does go out, the charge in the battery continues to operate the stair lift, regardless of the lack of electrical power. As with any type of battery, the large cells used for operating the stair lift will need to be replaced every year and a half to two years, which does add to the cost of these stair lifts over time. In areas where power outages are a real possibility, they do provide extra peace of mind. Many homeowners find that the relatively small cost of the batteries more than outweighs the concerns of a power outage.

One important feature to consider when deciding on stair lifts for your home is to consider the weight that the lift can carry. Most are designed to carry up to 300 pounds, yet there are also heavy duty lifts that are suitable for heavier individuals and loads. Remember that anything that is going to be carried up the stairs on the lift with the person adds to the weight. Different stair lifts are available for all different lengths and styles of stairways. Working with a stair lift company can help you customize or modify the stair lifts to meet your exact installation needs.