New vs. Used Stairlifts: What To Know Before You Buy
If you’re considering a stairlift, one of the first questions you may ask is: Should I buy a new stairlift or consider a used or reconditioned option? While both options can improve mobility and safety at home, there are important differences in cost, reliability and long-term value to consider.
New vs. Used Stairlifts
The high cost of moving and the ongoing expense of assisted living make remaining independent a priority for many seniors. In fact, at least 74% of people want to continue to age in place gracefully even after experiencing a health setback such as a stroke, fall-related injury or chronic illness diagnosis, according to a study conducted by Northwestern Mutual.
Staying in your forever home often requires making upgrades to improve safety and accessibility, especially if you have mobility limitations. A stairlift can give you peace of mind and prevent serious injury from a fall. It also enables you to continue using every floor of your home. For many homeowners, that peace of mind can be life-changing.
“You never know when you’re going to hurt yourself and have to deal with stairs. These stairlifts give you the gift of life when living on your own,” said Ruth B., a Safe Step Stairlift owner.
Pros and Cons of a New Stairlift
There are many advantages to investing in a new stairlift:
- A new stairlift arrives straight from the manufacturer with no wear and tear from a previous owner.
- While the upfront cost may be higher than buying used, it comes with the latest technology and features, like remote control and battery backup.
- The color can often be customized to match your decor.
- A new stairlift may come with a warranty for an added layer of protection.
A Safe Step Stairlift comes with a lifetime-limited warranty covering parts for as long as you live in your home. Having this industry-leading warranty provides peace of mind on your investment.
Understanding Used or Reconditioned Stairlifts
A used or reconditioned stairlift often has a lower upfront cost, making it an ideal solution for someone who needs a stairlift for a limited time after surgery or a hospital stay.
Unfortunately, used stairlifts do not typically come with warranty coverage. You may pay less in the beginning, but you will be responsible for footing the repair bill if something breaks.
Stairlift Safety and Reliability Considerations
When exploring stairlifts, safety and reliability should be a top concern. Stairlifts are a convenient solution, but they’re also a safety device that a homeowner depends on.
An unreliable stairlift can leave you stranded or increase your risk of injury. With an older unit, you run the risk of a breakdown, and it generally requires frequent maintenance to continue operating efficiently.
Are There Alternatives To Buying Used?
If the cost of a new stairlift is prompting you to consider a reconditioned unit, you can explore alternative payment opportunities. A new stairlift may be more affordable than expected if you take advantage of financing options and promotional discounts to help lower your upfront cost without sacrificing warranty coverage or reliability.
New vs. Used Stairlift: Side-by-Side Comparison
Both new and used stairlifts can improve mobility, but the right choice depends on your needs, budget and long-term plans. To help you weigh the pros and cons, here’s a quick comparison:
| New Stairlift | Used Stairlift | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher upfront | Lower upfront |
| Warranty | Full coverage | Limited or none |
| Features | Latest technology | May be outdated |
| Lifespan | Longer | Shorter |
| Customization | Yes | No |
Access Every Level With Safe Step
For many homeowners, investing in a new stairlift provides greater safety, reliability and confidence—especially when planning to remain in their home for years to come.
Safe Step has built a solid reputation as a leader in home accessibility. Our walk-in tub received the Ease of Use Certification from the Arthritis Foundation. Our American-made stairlift comes with the same quality and dependability you’ve come to expect.
A Safe Step Stairlift is the most energy-efficient stairlift available. Many stairlifts rely on their gear system for braking as they travel downward, which can reduce efficiency over time. Safe Step Stairlifts use a regenerative drive system that recharges the battery during descent, helping extend battery life and performance. This allows for longer battery life and up to 40+ round-trips during a power outage.
Schedule a free consultation to explore your stairlift options and discover a solution designed for your home, your safety and your long-term independence.
