The joy of stairlifts is that they make your stairs accessible again. Many homes in Kelowna have more than one floor so, if your mobility is impaired, having a stairlift fitted will be most advantageous. Stairlifts are motorized chairs, and they run up and down your stairs on a system of rails. They operate on electricity, but usually have batteries available for any time when the power is off. All that is needed after installation is a nearby plug. The chair works on a system of rails, and these are mounted directly onto the steps, so there is no drilling into walls.
Personalising your stairlift
If you live in the Kelowna area, you will be able to find a local supplier who will be able to consult with you as to your needs. It’s important to meet with a representative as there are a number of options and variations available, and you will want your stairlift personalised to suit your home. Staircases come in many shapes and sizes – some are straight and narrow, others are curved, while others might be very steep. Each of these will require a different design of the railings needed. Some companies will allow you to test a stairlift in their showroom, giving you peace of mind that it is a safe and reliable method of transportation. There are numerous features built into a stairlift and you can experience for yourself the ‘soft’ start and stop buttons, the ability to control speed, and the ease with which the chair glides along the rails.
Installing your stairlift
Once you’ve decided to invest in a stairlift, installation will take only a matter of hours. If the design you choose requires modifications, such as the colour of the chair’s upholstery, you may need to wait a week or two for delivery. The rails will be manufactured, cut and shaped to the layout of your stairs and, once these are installed, it’s as simple as plugging in the chair and it’s ready for use.
Using a local supplier
If you want to test-drive a stairlift before purchasing, you will be able to find a local supplier who can assist. Having a nearby firm is convenient so that a consultant is readily available to visit your home for the pre-purchase measurements. Once the stairlift is installed you will want assistance close-by if there are any technical issues that arise. Stairlifts will all come with some guarantee period, but regular maintenance is always advised. In case of an emergency, it’s also a good idea to choose a supplier who is available 24/7 and 365 days a year.
