Should I Buy (New or Used) or Rent a Stairlift?
Posted on by Eric Rubel
When looking into adding a stairlift to your home, it is important to consider your options for obtaining one. These include buying a new or used lift, or renting one. Like most decisions, there are pros and cons to each of these options and the best option is going to vary based on mobility needs of the person in need, length of use required, warranty coverage, and budget.
Let’s take a closer look to help you determine what might be the best option for you!
Buying a New Stairlift
Many customers that are shopping for a stairlift would prefer to purchase a new unit over a used model if their budget allows for it. Like any other product purchase, this is understandable since there are several advantages to buying new vs used, including:
- No wear and tear on major components, seat, etc.
- Less likely to require service
- Covered by a more comprehensive product & labor warranty
- Offers the latest technology and features
- Full range of options to choose from if needed
Costs & Staircase Configuration
However, these advantages come with a price tag to match. Typically, a new straight stairlift will cost between $2,5000 and $8,000, which includes professional installation if purchased from Lifeway Mobility. A curved stairlift will likely start around $11,000, and ranges upward from there depending on staircase configuration. If you have a staircase, with curves, turns, or landings, a new unit is typically the only option since those types of staircase require a custom built rail in most cases.
If budget is a concern for purchasing a new lift, Lifeway Mobility offers financing for qualified buyers, starting as low as $106.99/month!
Length of Use
When considering purchasing a new stairlift, think about how long you anticipate you’ll need the unit. If you think that you’ll need the lift for more than a couple years, a new unit is probably the best option. This will allow you the longest possible lifespan which can vary but is typically up to 10 years.
Most Comprehensive Warranty Coverage
A new unit from Lifeway Mobility will also come with the most comprehensive warranty coverage, including a lifetime warranty on major components, 3 years on parts, and 1 year on labor. When buying a stairlift, make sure your provider has details on the warranty and is prepared to honor it with prompt service.
Buying a Used Stairlift
For many, the thought of buying something used may be less than ideal. While it is true that buying new will allow you to purchase the exact model that you prefer with the longest lifespan, used stairlifts can be the right solution for those with a limited budget.
Costs
A pre-owned unit will typically cost between $2,000 and $3,500. The exact cost will be determined by where you purchase it from (reputable dealer vs. online), make, model, year, and overall condition that the stair lift is in at the time of purchase.
When buying used, it is also important to choose a reputable provider provides professional installation, thoroughly inspects the unit, cleans it, and ensures it is in working condition before re-installing in another home.
Warranty Coverage for Used Stairlifts
With the price discount, however, comes risk as used units are often no longer covered by the manufacturer's original warranty. Some providers, such as Lifeway Mobility, that sell used stairlifts from local inventories, will offer a limited warranty that provides the buyer some peace of mind, but it's not going to be as comprehensive as the material and labor warranty provided on a brand-new lift.
Service & Features
Keep in mind, it is not wise to purchase second hand directly from another stairlift owner as it will come without warranty. You'll want to make sure that service will be available should you have an issue with the used lift, and this can be a challenge when the used lift is not bought from a reliable dealer.
You should also understand that the selection of used stair lifts and available features may not match the inventory of new lifts that a provider can offer. However, it is possible that a used lift will offer many of the features found on new lifts at a lower cost.
Renting a Stair Lift
The primary reasons to rent a stairlift instead of buying one are typically a short/undetermined length of use and in some cases, cost. If you know that your needs are temporary, such as after surgery or an injury, or a short-term living situation, a rental stairlift may be a great option to consider.
Rental Package from Lifeway Mobility
Lifeway Mobility's rental stairlift package includes:
- Installation/removal
- First 2 months of rental
- Service as needed throughout the duration of the rental period.
Each additional month after the initial rental period will require you to pay a monthly rental fee. Optional features such as folding rail will also be subject to an extra monthly charge.
After renting a stairlift, some people learn to love their lift and decide to keep it! If you’re not sure how long you will need your lift, be sure to ask your provider if they offer a rent-to-own program.
While renting a stair lift can be a more affordable option than buying one, that's not necessarily the case if you're interesting in financing a stair lift, which would allow for a monthly payment that is typically lower than a monthly rental fee - as low as $106.99/month* for qualified buyers.
*APR rates based on credit, although a full credit report is not required. *Easy: 4 simple questions for immediate approval response. *Home ownership is not required. *Financing can be used on amounts between $1,000-$25,000.
Final Thoughts - Buying vs Renting a Stairlift
When deciding on which option is right for you, consider your budget and how that lines up with your mobility needs, length of use, & feature/option needs. Below are quick takeaways of each option:
- Buying New -- Longer-term use, most comprehensive warranty, new features, and full range of upgrade options available
- financing offers more affordable low monthly payment
- Buying Used -- Lower-cost purchase option for mid-long term use, limited warranty coverage & options available, wear/tear on unit
- Renting -- Short-term or undetermined length of use, limited options available
If you are unsure of which option is best for you, contact us and we'll be happy to set up a free consultation with one of our stair lift experts to help you make the best decision to meet your specific needs!
For more information about stair lifts, check out the following resources: