Stairlifts Frequently Asked Questions
How local is Ability Plus?
We pride ourselves on being a local company always giving our customers the service they deserve, we are the only stairlift company in Kent with shops in Bluewater, Gillingham, Sheerness, Herne Bay & Westwood Cross. We only cover Kent that way we can guarantee our customers the best response time.
Are my stairs suitable for a stairlift?
Stairlifts can be made to fit any staircase, no matter how awkward they appear. Most staircases are either straight, have a middle landing, or are curved/spiral. In some cases, a customer who has a middle landing can put two stairlifts in, one on the first set of stairs and the other on the second set. We can help you stay in your home and can cater for all types of stairs.
Do I need to modify my home for a stairlift?
In some cases, we shall remove handrails if they obstruct the operation of the stairlift.
How do you secure the stairlift?
Only the staircase treads provide anchors for the stairlift. Our engineers install the stairlift exactly to the contours of your staircase.
How much space does a stairlift use?
Very little space. All models of stairlifts have arms, foot-rest and seat that fold neatly out of the way when not in use.
How easy is the stairlift to use?
By simply pressing the lever (or button) in the direction you wish to travel.
Will my stairlift operate in a powercut?
New stairlifts come with DC batteries that continue to power the stairlift for up to three days during a powercut.
How safe is the stairlift?
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Emergency break – stops the lift immediately
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Seat belt – keeps you in position
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Obstruction sensors – stops the lift should something block its path
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Swivel seat lock – holds the unit in place while you get on or off
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Constant pressure controls – ensures the lift will stop if you release your finger from the controls
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Over-speed Governor – this stops the stairlift from over-speeding when travelling down the stairs
What is the maximum weight a stairlift can take?
Most stairlifts can take up to 19 stone in weight, heavy duty stairlifts available up to 25 stone
How long will it take to fit the stairlift?
A stairlift can be fitted in approximately 2 hours, however, it can depend on the complexity of your staircase.