Frequently asked questions about stairlifts and platform stairlifts

In an earlier article we explained the difference between stairlifts and platform stairlifts.

Today we want to answer all the questions people most often ask us about stairlifts and platform stairlifts.

What is a stairlift

Stairlifts are seats or platforms that travel along a rail anchored to the staircase. They can be fitted to virtually any staircase, they are safe and easy to use, they do not block other users of the stairs, and they offer a wide range of customisation options.

What types of stairlift are there?

At Farré we classify stairlifts by the type of staircase.

We offer straight stairlifts such as the HomeGlide, and curved stairlifts such as the FlowX. HomeGlide stairlift and curved stairlifts such as the Flow X stairlift.

How wide does the staircase need to be for a stairlift?

The minimum width is 680 mm for straight staircases (not counting the space for the user’s bent knees) and around 750 mm for curved ones (reducible to 605 mm in some cases).

What is the maximum weight a stairlift can carry?

The load capacity of the HomeGlide stairlift for straight flights is 127 kg, and can reach 138 kg.
The load capacity of the Flow stairlift for curved flights is 125 kg.

Can I customise my stairlift?

Yes — our stairlifts come in a variety of upholstery finishes and rail colours so the lift blends in with your home as much as possible.

What happens to my stairlift in a power cut?

Our stairlifts can keep running temporarily on battery power, letting you reach your destination — the next floor — or return to the starting point.
The Flow stairlift, for example, can run for 10 journeys on its batteries.
It also has an emergency descent system in the event of a breakdown.

Can a stairlift be installed outdoors?

Of course. The HomeGlide Outdoor stairlift combines all the features of the standard indoor HomeGlide with weather-resistant finishes.
On top of that, we offer the latest in weather-protection technology and over eighty specially treated components, so you have a stairlift that can be used at any time of year.

How much electricity does a stairlift use?

Farré Accessibilitat stairlifts use less than 0.024 kW — that is 24 watts per hour. Set against the household appliances and devices we compared them with, their consumption is far lower.

In an earlier article we explained How much electricity does a stairlift use? and the energy comparison between a stairlift and the various household appliances and electrical devices in the home.

Does the staircase need any building work before fitting a stairlift?

No — as a rule no building work is needed. In any case, during the visit we will advise you and work out the best route for the rail.

What is a platform stairlift?

A platform stairlift provides greater freedom of movement and removes architectural barriers that often limit wheelchair users, carrying the person — and the wheelchair — safely along the staircase.
It is a solution for people who need to travel in a wheelchair, as it lets them move between levels in complete comfort and safety.

Platform design aims to minimise the space taken up on the staircase. They are ergonomic and functional, with folding models that leave the stairs clear when not in use.
Platform lifts are ergonomic and practical, and there are solutions that can be installed both indoors and outdoors.

What types of platform stairlift are there?

At Farré we classify platform stairlifts by the type of staircase.

We offer straight platform lifts such as the Supra Straight, and curved ones such as the Supra Curve. Supra Straight platform stairlift and curved platform stairlifts such as the Supra Curved platform stairlift.

Straight platform stairlifts are the best option for overcoming architectural barriers on straight flights of stairs, with no turns or changes of gradient.
Curved platform stairlifts are the answer where accessibility has to be guaranteed in any kind of building. They are designed to handle curves and changes of gradient.

How wide does the staircase need to be for a stairlift?

The recommended minimum width is 1.20 m; in any case, before installing we assess your staircase and confirm feasibility.

What is the maximum load of a platform stairlift?

The load capacity of the Supra Line Stairlift Platform varies with the gradient. It can carry 325 kg at gradients of 0° to 35°, and 250 kg at gradients of 36° to 45°.
The load capacity of the Supra platform stairlift for curved flights is 300 kg at gradients of 0° to 30°, 250 kg at gradients of 31° to 35°, or 190 kg at gradients of 36° to 45°.

What safety features do platform stairlifts have?

Our platform lifts feature active and passive safety devices; the Supra Curve is currently one of the safest platform lifts on the market.
The safety devices on our platform stairlifts include an anti-impact device, an anti-trapping device on the body of the machine and an anti-impact device on the platform itself.

Can a platform stairlift be installed outdoors?

Of course. The Supra Straight and Supra Curve platform lifts are fully suitable for outdoor use, with weather-resistant finishes.

Does the staircase need building work before fitting a platform stairlift?

In most cases they are fitted directly onto the stairs or secured to a wall, avoiding building work — which also saves time and cost.
That also saves on labour and on installation time.
In any case, during the visit we will advise you and work out the best option.

We hope this has answered your questions about stairlifts and platform stairlifts. Do get in touch if there is anything else you would like to know.