New Stairlifts Compared to Reconditioned Stairlifts

The Positives & Negatives Of New Stairlifts

With any major purchase that we have to make there is usually the alternative to buy a refurbished model instead of new, however there are always positive and negative points to consider. The same applies to a stairlift purchase. Should you buy a new stairlift or a refurbished stairlift (reconditioned stairlift) model? We have listed below some basic facts on stairlifts that you may have already considered and some that you may have not.

The Positives of Buying New Stairlifts

1. Usually direct from manufacturer
2. Stairlift parts are stocked if required
3. "Clean and tidy" (cosmetically intact)
4. More variety of finishes Stairlift can be customised to the user's needs
5. More powered options are available, footrest, swivel etc
6. Manufacturer's warranty
7. Reliability
8. Peace of mind

The Negatives of Buying New Stairlifts

1. New stairlifts tend to be quite expensive
2. There may be still some 'teething' problems
3. Buyback value tends to be the same as an already refurbished stairlift

The Positives of Buying a Reconditioned Stairlift

1. Cheaper than the new stairlift option
2. There should be no 'teething' problems as the stairlift has been used prior elsewhere
3. Installation maybe faster if you opt for a curved stairlift

The Negatives of Buying Reconditioned Stairlifts

1. Some reconditioned stairlifts may have a limited warranty
2. It may be difficult to source a stairlift that is suitable for your stairs
3. Ongoing maintenance maybe an issue if the stair lift is no longer in production
4. If the stairlift is no longer in production, it could be difficult to find replacement parts
5. Unlike a new a stairlift, it would be difficult to taylor reconditioned stairlifts to the users needs
6. You may find that you will have to buy a second stairlift in the future should the first be beyond repair

Other Points to Remember

1. Quality of reconditioned stairlifts will vary tremendously
2. Unfortunately, some companies are not as thorough with their reconditioned stairlifts
3. You cannot mix and match different makes of stairlifts to different tracks
4. It is easy to cut a track down to suit your straight staircase
5. Some reconditioned straight stairlifts can be 're-handed'
6. It would be easier to adapt a curved stairlift to suit a straight staircase than to adapt a straight stairlift for a curved staircase
7. A straight stairlift with a platform installation could be a cheaper alternative to a curved stairlift installation - but not always the safest