Buying a reconditioned stairlift is a good way to save money on a stairlift if you’re on a budget. Typically a reconditioned stairlift can save you up to 40% of the cost of buying new.
If you need a specialist stairlift too, such as when you have a very narrow or awkward staircase, the discount from buying reconditioned can make it more affordable. See also our post on stairlifts for narrow stairs.
With certain stairlifts you’re better off buying new – for example with a heavy weight model or an outside stairlift. Many stairlift companies won’t offer reconditioned stairlifts when there’s a safety concern, such as in the case of a heavy weight stairlift. Outdoor stairlifts too will often only be offered brand new. This is due to pre-used outdoor lifts having issues with unseen corrosion.
Reconditioned Stairlifts Vs. New Stairlifts – Benefits
Other benefits of buying a reconditioned stairlift include the waiting time to installation. This can often be faster with a reconditioned stairlift because the lifts are waiting in stock; particularly when it comes to straight stairlifts, where a rail can be used off the shelf. With a curved stairlift, there’s usually a longer waiting time due to the need for a customised rail.
But even so, wait times are often longer with brand new lifts which need to be ordered from the manufacturers, increasing the wait time. So if you’re in a hurry for a stairlift, a reconditioned unit cannot only save you money but also long wait times.
Of course the cost is the main benefit and the reason why so many people opt for a reconditioned stairlift.
Reconditioned Stairlifts – Considerations
When buying a reconditioned stairlift, it is important to know what is included in your package in terms of warranty. With a good company, you should get at least a 12 month warranty with a pre-used/reconditioned stairlift. Ask for the terms of your warranty. Some companies will include longer warranties, covering parts, labour and call out fees.
If a stairlift breaks down, you want to know you’re in good hands. A stairlift becomes an integral part of your independence, so it is important to make sure you trust your stairlift provider.
Check the reviews of the company you are looking at – not all stairlift installers are alike!
When To Buy New
If budget isn’t so much of an issue, you might consider buying a brand new stairlift. A brand new stairlift can give you the reassurance of a greater life-span and a longer warranty. Usually brand new stairlifts come with a 3 year warranty. Whereas reconditioned stairlift suppliers tend to offer warranties of between 12 months and 2 years.
If you’re buying a heavy duty stairlift, we would recommend buying new. Even suppliers don’t know the full history of a pre-used stairlift and if there’s a safety concern, you’re far better buying new. When you’re over the weight limit of most other stairlifts, it is always better to have the peace of mind that your lift is new. Pre-used heavy weight stairlifts may have taken a lot of use, and this might cause problems for the next user.
Outdoor stairlifts too are better brand new. If a stairlift has been sitting outside for some considerable time, parts can become damaged through corrosion and this is difficult to see and remedy. This can cause problems if you’re buying a pre-used outdoor stairlift.
Reconditioned Stairlifts Maintenance
Reconditioned stairlifts are stairlifts that have been pre-used but have been professionally refurbished and brought up to a high standard. Most companies offering reconditioned stairlifts will give you a warranty and after care service included for 1-2 years. With a good model, these stairlifts can give you years of trouble free use. However, stairlifts are mechanical and electrical devices which can break down. It’s well worth doing your homework on a company before committing to a purchase. As an stairlift engineer might say, measure twice, cut once!
With regular servicing (12 monthly), a warranty and after care service, you can rely on the quality of most reconditioned stairlifts on the market. Just check the company out before purchase and make sure you have a good after care package and you’re covered for any breakdowns.