FAQ
Have questions?
How do stairlifts work?
Your Acorn stairlift has been designed and manufactured to travel on a single rail track that is mounted to your staircase. This can be moved by a toggle on the arm of the chair or by remote control. There are three main components to our lift. The motor, battery, and gear.
What is a stairlift used for?
Stairlifts are primarily used by people unable to get up and down the stairs. They can be used by people of all ages. Here at Acorn we also have the option for children to use our lifts. In these cases, a 5 point harness can be installed in replacement of the normal lap belt.
Can stairlifts go around corners?
Stairlifts can go around corners. Stairlifts can be fitted to most stair configurations, speak to Acorn who can professionally advise the best solution for your staircase, whether this be a straight or curved stairlift, the best solution will be offered depending on your circumstances. Here at Acorn Stairlifts, we manufacture stairlifts to fit most staircase types; they can travel round corners, spiral staircase and across landings. Our stairlifts can be designed for each individual staircase.
Who invented the stairlift?
There is a little confusion over who first invented the stairlift. It is believed that back in the 1920's, the first stairlift was created by an entrepreneur called C. C. Crispin, who was from Pennsylvania, USA. His invention was called the Inclinator and it was engineered by him.
Do stairlifts use a lot of electricity?
An Acorn stairlift doesn't use a lot of electricity and typically uses the same amount of electricity as a small televison on stand by (Might add Kwh per year of curve 35kwh per year/straight 23Kwh per year)
How do I choose a stairlift?
Different models of stairlifts suit each persons
needs, Acorn can assess your personal needs ensuring
the right stairlift is fitted, this includes curve
models, standing models, comfortable seated indoor or
outdoor models.
Once you've decided to get a stairlift, the next step
is choosing the correct model for you. This will
depend whether your staircase is straight or curved.
If you know somebody who owns a lift, have a chat with
them. That way you will get an unbiased opinion. You
then need to consider what is important to you, cost,
reliability or brand name. Here at Acorn we
manufacture, install and service all our lifts.
How wide do stairs need to be for a stairlift?
At Acorn stairlifts we aim to fit even the narrowest of staircases. Our Acorn 130 needs only 26 inches and Acorn 180 needs only 27.5 inches to ensure the customer can swivel around comfortably. One of our fully trained surveyors can assess your staircase to ensure a lift is possible.
What is the best stairlift?
Different models of stairlifts suit each person's different needs, Acorn can assess your personal needs ensuring the right stairlift is fitted, this includes curve models, standing models, comfortable seated indoor or outdoor models.
Can a stairlift be shortened?
Most Acorn stairlifts can be shortened, but this must be carried out by an Acorn approved Engineer, this will ensure safety and continued reliability of the product.
Can stairlifts go around corners?
Stairlifts can go around corners. Stairlifts can be fitted to most stair configurations, speak to Acorn who can professionally advise the best solution for your staircase, whether this be a straight or curved stairlift, the best solution will be offered depending on your circumstances. Here at Acorn Stairlifts, we manufacture stairlifts to fit most staircase types; they can travel round corners, spiral staircase and across landings. Our stairlifts can be designed for each individual staircase.
Does the stairlift attach to the wall or the stairs?
Our stairlifts fit to the stairs, not the wall, so there is no messy and disruptive structural work, or drilling into masonry and plaster.
How long does it take to install a stairlift?
Typically an Acorn stairlift takes 1 to 2 hours to install, with more complex installations taking 4 to 5 hours. After installation, the Engineer will guide you through the easy controls of an Acorn stairlift.
Are stairlifts safe?
Stairlifts are extremely safe, when installed by professionally competent persons. Acorn stairlifts are manufactured to the highest standard and all Acorn employed Engineers are trained to the highest standards.
How fast does a stairlift go?
A stairlift's speed is quite slow, traveling up to a maximum rated speed of 0.15 meters per second (0.34 mph) this ensures a safe, comfortable ride.
How much weight can a stairlift hold?
Acorn stairlifts can hold up to 159kg (25s) (350lb).
Will other people still be able to use the stairs?
Every Acorn Stairlift is made to fold up to allow others to access the staircase. When not in use, the seat, arms and footrest simply fold up to make the carriage even less obtrusive and the stairs easy to use by other family members or visitors to your home.
How much are stairlifts?
Before we can give you a stairlift quote, we need to first carry out a survey to make sure your stairlift will meet your requirements. The most important part of the stairlift equation is the person using it, so our surveyor will spend time understanding your mobility needs. Next, the surveyor will measure and photograph your staircase to determine what type of Acorn Stairlift is best suited to your home and your individual needs. What we quote is what you'll pay and it remains valid for up to 12 months.
How much is the home survey?
Our home survey is completely free and you're under no obligation to buy.
What does the extended warranty cover?
As well as ensuring your stairlift receives its recommended annual service, taking out an extended warranty will give you priority attention 365 days-a-year. It means that in the unlikely evens of a breakdown, one of our engineers will attend to your home within 24 hours. The extended warranty also covers the cost of all callouts, parts and labour, with nothing more to pay.
What is the Re-sale policy for my stairlift?
As stated in the original contract of sale, as manufacturers of stairlifts, we do not buy back unwanted stairlifts. We do have a well-developed scheme for customers like yourself, whose stairlift is no longer required. We aim to guide and assist you through the process of selling your lift privately.