Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the difference between a straight stair lift and a curved stair lift?
A: It referrers to the type of staircase a straightforward straight vertical flight of stairs is fine for the more simplistic straight lift. However staircases that have corners, quarter landings or spirals in them require a curved stairlift.

Q: How much does a stair lift cost?
A: Stairlifts vary in cost, depending on the size and shape of the staircase and any optional extras selected. Another factor to consider will be the supplier and brand and the method of purchase. Realistic retail prices for a quality lift will start at around £1,400 for a straight and £4,000 for a curved (fully fitted, including vat)

Q: Are there grants available to help pay for a stairlift
A: Yes, depending upon your personal and financial circumstances you may be eligible for a full or partial Disabled Facilities Grant ask your Local Authority for details and a free assessment.

Q: Is my house suitable for a stairlift and where will it go?
A: Homes come in many shapes and sizes; this is why the Platinum Curve has been specifically designed to be very versatile and capable of fitting snugly and unobtrusively to almost any staircase. In most cases they are fitted to the stair-treads rather than the wall, so there is no building mess or damage to your décor. To ensure the right fit, trained advisors will visit your home by appointment. They will consult survey and assess the most appropriate solution for your specific needs and circumstances.

Q: How long will the stair lift installation take?
A: A stair lift can normally be installed within a few hours, and our dedicated and highly qualified engineers will minimize the disruption to your home. They will also test and demonstrate the stair lift thoroughly and make sure you are comfortable with the operation of your lift.

Q: Is it difficult to get on and off the lift?
A: No, the seat design swivels to allow you to get onto the lift safely at the top of the stairs. This enables you to alight onto the landing, without twisting your body. If there is room, an overrun can take you clear of the stairwell. (link to image)

Q: Will I still be able to use the stairs as normal?
A: Yes, when not in use the lift can be folded away to allow the staircase to be used by other people and visitors.

Q: How easy is the lift to use?
A: Very, simply pressing on the joystick controller, located on the armrest, in direction of travel and you move off steadily and smoothly.

Q: How comfortable is it to ride a stairlift?
A: How comfortable a ride will depend upon the model you purchase and any specific physical conditions that may be affected. The Platinum Curve for example, incorporates a PMDC motor to ensure a smooth and gentle ride and the twin rail mechanical levelling system provides for a gentler and steady levelling on turns and corners. In addition the seat is ergonomically styled and incorporates plump padding and cushioning.

Q: How noisy is the lift?
A: Most modern stairlifts are relatively quiet and you should be able to use it day and night without disturbing others.

Q: What happens if the lift has been left upstairs and I'm downstairs?
A: This is a common occurrence when two or more members of a household use the stairlift. The lifts are supplied with two hand held or wall-mounted remote controls. By, simply, pressing the remote control, the lift will be called up or down stairs. (link to image).

Q: What powers the stairlift?
A: Electricity – stairlifts are either mains only (AC) or battery powered (DC). Most modern stairlifts are the DC variant.

Q: Will my Stairlift still work in a power-cut?
A: Yes, if it is a DC powered lift. DC lifts are powered by on-board batteries that are charged via the mains. All Platinum lifts are DC and the integral battery management system ensures, even in the event of mains power failure, the lift will only commence a journey if there is sufficient power to complete it.

Q: What if something gets in the way of the stairlift?
A: The lift numerous safety sensors which automatically stop the lift if anything is detected in its path.

Q: How will I learn how to use the stairlift?
A: Your fitting also includes an in-depth demonstration of comfort and safety features, as well as a comprehensive list of checks before we leave you to let you get to know your lift.

Q: How long will I have to wait for my Stairlift?
A: That depends on the results of the site survey, which will take into account things such as the type of lift required, the staircase shape and the number of additional options required. Traditionally curved lifts can take up to 6 weeks for delivery. However, at Platinum we understand only too well that, for a variety of reasons, many of our customers need their stairlifts supplied quicker than that. That is why Platinum invested in a modern manufacturing process that can deliver its curved lifts within an industry leading 10 days*

Q: Does my lift come with a warranty?
A: A minimum, 12 month warranty on all parts and labour is included with every stairlift.

Q: How long does it take to install a Stairlift?
A: Again this will depend upon the structure of the property and the length and complexity of the staircase. However, the Platinum curved should not take more than a couple of hours to install on a typical staircase.

Q: Can I buy a reconditioned or used stairlift?
A: Yes, although with any second-hand sale, it is important to balance initial purchase savings against potentially higher running and repair costs. Platinum recognise that in, certain circumstances a new stairlift is not always the best option, and to give our customers peace of mind and the opportunity to buy with confidence, we established the Platinum Approved Used Scheme.

Q: How often should a Stairlift be serviced inspected?
A: Stairlifts are mechanical devices and it I recommended they be serviced and inspected every 12 months. We also recommend that any servicing or inspections are only be carried out by qualified and competent persons. A full Service report certificate should be left on site and signed by the engineer.

Q: How can I tell if the stairlift company is reputable?
A: There is no cast iron guarantees. However, one indicator is to see if the company is a member of the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA). Membership of the BHTA requires a strict adherence to codes of practice and a commitment to high levels of quality and customer service. Platinum are members of the BHTA

Q: What Maximum weight can a stairlift carry?
A: The weight limit or Safe Working Load (SWL) will vary depending upon each make and model and the options selected. Most lifts on the market are capable of carrying up to 18 Stone/120Kg? If you weigh more than 18st/120kg check with your supplier as there are some models that can accommodate SWL of a greater weight.

Q: Can more than one person use the Stairlift?
A: Yes, but not at the same time! So long as both users are within the weight limit (safe working load.) – The stairlift weight limit should be indicated on the lift carriage. If in doubt check with the manufacturer or retailer.

Q: What about the environment and local sustainability – Where are stairlifts made?
A: Platinum understands its corporate responsibility towards the environment, carbon footprints and an obligation to enhance the local economy. That is why we source most of our materials and components from reputable British suppliers. In addition to offering new products, we have a long established reconditioning business, dedicated to refurbishing and recycling stairlifts across the UK.

With other manufacturers it will depend upon the model, and make: Some stairlifts are made in the UK like ours, with others either imported; or assembled in the UK from components mainly shipped in from overseas. If environmental and economic sustainability issues are important to you – ask the manufacturer or retailer for details of their environmental policy.