For those with limited mobility, a stairlift can be a life-changing addition to your home. Stairlifts promote independence and remove the struggle of using the stairs, allowing you to move safely and easily between floors.
However, the costs can be considerable. Brand-new straight stairlifts range from £2,000 to £4,000 on average, although A6 Mobility Shop have a fixed price straight stairlift cost of just £1,599! (Correct at time of writing – October 2023). If you’re looking for an affordable option, a reconditioned stairlift could provide the ideal solution. But how do reconditioned stairlifts compare to new models? Here’s everything you need to know about second-hand stairlifts to help you make the right choice.
What Are Reconditioned Stairlifts?
Refurbished or reconditioned stairlifts are pre-owned models that have been thoroughly checked, repaired, and restored to full working order. Everything from the motor and electronics to the seat, armrests, and controls is fully reconditioned to meet stringent quality standards.
Once refurbished, the stairlift should operate and look just like new so you can have complete confidence in its safety and reliability. In addition, many used stairlifts, like those at A6 Mobility Shop, come with warranties for extra peace of mind.
Benefits of Buying a Second-Hand Stairlift
Opting for a reconditioned model over a brand-new stairlift offers several advantages:
Lower Price
The most obvious benefit is the lower cost. Reconditioned stairlift prices can be 25-50% cheaper than new ones. However, the savings could be slightly less or more depending on the stairlift’s age, model, and condition.
Quick Delivery
Many retailers, like A6 Mobility Shop, have a selection of pre-owned stairlifts in stock and ready to go. This means you can have your stairlift delivered and installed in just a few days.
High Quality Standards
There should be no compromise on quality or performance. Fully reconditioned models are largely indistinguishable from new ones and offer the same comfort, reliability, and functionality.
Eco-Friendly Choice
Opting for a reconditioned stairlift means giving a second life to quality equipment that might otherwise end up in a landfill. This reduces waste and minimises the demand for new stairlifts, decreasing the resources used and the carbon emissions generated in the manufacturing process.
Potential Drawbacks of Buying a Used Stairlift
Limited Customisation
As your selection is limited to available used stock, you may not have access to all the options you need. For example, if you have a uniquely curved staircase, you might find fewer options in the reconditioned range. A curved stairlift could be more specific in its design, so finding the right fit might be trickier.
Warranty Length
While many companies offer warranties on refurbished stairlifts, the duration might be shorter than what you’d get with a new one. It’s always important to understand the exact terms of the warranty before making a purchase.
What to Look for When Buying a Refurbished Stairlift
To find a high-quality refurbished stairlift that you can rely on, check that:
- The supplier is reputable and offers warranties on refurbished models. Consider their reputation and how long they’ve been in business. Additionally, look for recommendations and reviews.
- It has been rigorously tested for safety and full functionality before sale.
- All key components have been fully refurbished, including the rail, carriage, seat, motor, controls, etc. Don’t be shy to ask the supplier for these details.
- Cosmetically, it looks clean, damage-free, and ‘as new’ including the seat fabric, controls, and finishes.
- It comes from a leading brand with several years of lifespan remaining.
- Installation and after-sales support are included.
- The price isn’t too good to be true. While cheaper models may be tempting, very low prices can be a red flag for poor quality. Spending a little more helps ensure longevity and reliability.
Why Choose A6 Mobility Shop for Reconditioned Stairlifts?
Since we started trading over 30 years ago, A6 Mobility Shop has become an established name in mobility equipment and customer services in Greater Manchester.
We put every refurbished stairlift through rigorous multi-point testing and inspection. All worn parts are replaced so they meet our exacting standards. To ensure we offer top-tier quality assurance, we only sell reconditioned stairlifts we originally fitted, so we can personally vouch for their quality.
Our experienced engineers can proficiently install your reconditioned straight or curved stairlift. Our straight stairlift installation is typically booked in within just four working days. We also offer ongoing maintenance, spare parts, and repairs for the lifespan of your stairlift.
Visit our showroom in Stockport to view our wide range of reconditioned stairlifts ready for quick delivery, or call our friendly team to discuss your requirements. With our lower prices and complete refurbishment, a used stairlift from A6 Mobility Shop enables you to own a life-enhancing stairlift without the premium price of buying one new.
