As we grow older or face mobility challenges, stairlifts can be a lifesaver, providing a safe and comfortable way to navigate the stairs at home. With numerous brands and models available, it can be challenging to determine which stairlift is the right fit for you. In this blog post, we will discuss the top Stairlift brands in greater detail, focusing on Bruno, Handicare, and Harmar, while also touching on Acorn and the unique way they handle sales and service.
Top Stairlift Brands
Bruno Stairlifts:
Bruno is a leading manufacturer of stairlifts in North America, known for its high-quality products and exceptional customer service. They offer both straight and curved stairlifts, with their most popular models being the Elan Straight Rail Stairlift (SRE-3050) and the Elite Curved Rail Stairlift (CRE-2110).
Standard features of Bruno stairlifts include:
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs (SRE-3050) and 400 lbs (CRE-2110)
- A comfortable, adjustable swivel seat with armrests and seat belt
- Two wireless remote controls for easy call/send function
- Foldable rail, seat, and footrest for minimized obstruction
- Battery-powered operation with continuous charging for uninterrupted use during power outages
- Safety sensors to detect obstacles and stop the lift
- Limited lifetime warranty on the motor and gearbox; 5-year warranty on parts
Average cost with installation:
- Straight stairlift: $3,000 – $5,500
- Curved stairlift: $9,500 – $17,000
Handicare Stairlifts:
Handicare is a global company with a strong presence in the stairlift market. They provide a wide range of stairlift options, including straight, curved, and outdoor models. Some of their top models are the Simplicity Series (950 and 950+), the 1000 Series, and the Freecurve (curved rail).
Standard features of Handicare stairlifts include:
- Weight capacity: 309 lbs (Simplicity Series), 350 lbs (1000 Series), and 275 lbs (Freecurve)
- A comfortable seat with armrests and seat belt
- Ergonomic toggle controls and wireless remote controls for easy call/send function
- Foldable rail, seat, and footrest for minimized obstruction
- Battery-powered operation with continuous charging for uninterrupted use during power outages
- Safety sensors to detect obstacles and stop the lift
- 2-year warranty on parts; lifetime warranty on the motor and gearbox
Average cost with installation:
- Straight stairlift: $3,000 – $5,500
- Curved stairlift: $9,500 – $17,000
Harmar Stairlifts
Harmar is an American manufacturer that specializes in mobility and accessibility solutions. Their stairlift offerings include straight, curved, and outdoor models. The Pinnacle SL300 (straight rail) is one of their most popular models.
Standard features of Harmar stairlifts include:
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs (SL300)
- A comfortable, adjustable swivel seat with armrests and seat belt
- Wireless remote controls for easy call/send function
- Foldable rail, seat, and footrest for minimized obstruction
- Battery-powered operation with continuous charging for uninterrupted use during power outages
- Safety sensors to detect obstacles and stop the lift
- 3-year warranty on parts; lifetime warranty on the motor and gearbox
Average cost with installation:
- Straight stairlift: $3,000 – $4,500
Acorn Stairlifts
Acorn is a well-known stairlift manufacturer that offers a variety of models, such as the Acorn 130 (straight rail) and the Acorn 180 (curved rail). However, they differ from other brands in that they only sell their products directly to consumers. This means that buyers must work exclusively with Acorn for all sales and services, and they do not have the option to choose which company services their lift. Additionally, customers are locked into service contracts with Acorn, which may not be ideal for those who prefer more flexibility.
Standard features of Acorn stairlifts include:
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs (Acorn 130) and 265 lbs (Acorn 180)
- A comfortable, padded swivel seat with armrests and seat belt
- Wireless remote controls for easy call/send function
- Foldable rail, seat, and footrest for minimized obstruction
- Battery-powered operation with continuous charging for uninterrupted use during power outages
- Safety sensors to detect obstacles and stop the lift
- 1-year warranty on parts and labor; extended warranties available for an additional cost
Average cost with installation:
- Straight stairlift: $3,800 – $5,900
- Curved stairlift: $12,000 – $18,000
Conclusion
When selecting a stairlift, it’s essential to consider the available models, features, and costs associated with each brand. Bruno, Handicare, and Harmar offer a range of stairlift options with competitive pricing and various standard features to ensure safety, comfort, and ease of use. Acorn, while also offering a range of models, has a unique direct sales and service approach that may not suit everyone’s preferences. Take the time to research and compare these top brands to find the stairlift that best meets your needs and budget.
Additional Factors to Consider
Besides the stairlift models, brands, and costs, there are other factors to consider when selecting a stairlift:
- Your staircase: Is it straight, curved, or does it have multiple landings? This will determine the type of stairlift you’ll need.
- Available space: Measure your staircase’s width and any potential obstructions to ensure the stairlift will fit comfortably.
- User weight and height: Check the weight capacity and seat dimensions of the stairlift to ensure it can accommodate the user comfortably.
- Outdoor vs. indoor: If you need a stairlift for outdoor use, ensure the model you choose is designed for outdoor conditions and is weather-resistant.
- Warranty and service: Carefully review the warranty and service options available for your chosen stairlift. Having reliable support and maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your investment.
By thoroughly considering your specific needs and researching the stairlift models, features, and costs available, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect stairlift for your home. Don’t forget to consult reviews and testimonials from other users, as these can provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of each brand and model.
