• Installation

A stair lift serves the purpose of improving mobility as well as safety in the home. Would you be able to install your stair lift and insure that you have done it in a manner that insures maximum safety of the unit? Though it can save you money upfront, it may cost you down the road if injury occurs on the stair lift.

Does it void the warranty if you install it yourself?
There is risk of failure associated with any mechanical device. A warranty for stair lift parts is very important. The only stair lift manufacturers that market do-it-yourself installs with a warranty are TK Access, Summit and Acorn. You may risk voiding the warranty if the manufacturer requires a professional installation in the warranty contract.

Are there any laws regarding installation?
It may be a requirement in your area to have installed by a licensed professional. There may even be a need for permits. Check with your local building inspectors office for advice in your particular locality. By ignoring or disregarding the above two points the installer could well be breaking the law. Besides, would the average person who is fitting one for the first time be knowledgeable about the clearances needed, the electrical safety and the proper anchoring of one?

Does the “Accessibility Equipment Manufacturers Association”  have any advice on the matter?
The AMEA (Accessibility Equipment Manufacturer’s Association) strongly advises against self installation of both new and used lifts. The AMEA points out that with self installation the consumer cannot possibly know if they have installed it in a safe manner. Also, the consumer can’t be sure if it has been installed in such a manner that ensures operational safety and that the installation conforms to local codes and regulations.

Do you need any special tools?
The only tools you need are a hammer, screwdriver, level and the kit. It is very important to consult with the owner’s manual in the kit before starting the installation but in general the basic installation steps are simple. Most quality instructions will have a needed tools list at the beginning, this makes a good checklist before you begin.

So what is the best way to install a stair lift?
Obviously hiring a professional to install your lift is the best idea in this case to insure safety, proper install and insuring proper codes and permits are followed. Do not let the idea of saving a few bucks get in the way of you and your loved ones safety.

Links below for manuals, in pdf format, that I have found online.

Acorn

Ameriglide

Harmar Access

General

I found another video that goes through the steps of installing a straight stair lift. Straight lifts are the easiest type of lift to install. This is largely due to the type of track used. The track is laid flat on the stairs and secured so it does not slide. A simple straight stair lift installation, as you will see in the videos, can be summed up by the following steps: Lay the track on the stairs, secure the track to the stairs, connect the cable, connect the unit.

Video 1

Video 2

Video 3

This video series will give you an idea of how a stair lift is installed.

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Some manufacturers sell stair lifts designed for a do-it-yourself installation. We recommend installations by trained professionals to ensure safety.  The following tips can be used when purchasing or installing a stair lift.

Permits. Check with you local officials for any permit requirements. Some states require an elevator permit to install a stair lift.

Measurement. Measure the total width and length of your stairway.  Include the distance at the top and bottom of the stairs for adequate and secure entry/exit to and from the stair lift.

Type of Stairway. The most simple type of installation is for straight stairways that do not include multiple sections or curve; You will need a curved stair chair lift if your stairway includes curves or multiple sections. The stair way should be at least 36 inches wide (91cm).

Power Source. Make sure there is an outlet near the staircase that can accomidate your stair lift. The outlet should be on its own breaker.

If you still want to install a stairlift on your own then the following may be helpful.  Purchase a stair lift that was designed for a DIY install. Straight stair lifts are the easiest to install yourself, curved stair lifts should always be installed by a professional. Most DIY stair lifts can be installed in about 4 hours, on smaller stairways. Take a look at the resources below to get an idea of how hard it is to install a stairlift.

Stair lift installation guides

Stair lift installation videos