Stair Lifts Key Terms

Learn terms for types and features of stair lifts

A stair lift is a device that offers a person with decreased mobility the ability to access stairs. Stair lifts typically run on tracks on the stairs, come with a seat and have motorized controls that allow a user to be independent in going up and down the stairs. Stair lifts come in a variety of features that can suit different types of stairs. When looking for a stair lift that is right for your workplace, it is helpful to know a few terms related to stair lifts.

 

Electric stair lift

An electric stair lift is one that is powered by electric current found in all homes and businesses. It requires full-time access to an electrical circuit in order for the stair lift to run.
Try: Stairlift Review provides a description of electric stair lifts.

Battery-powered stair lift

A battery-powered stair lift allows for use even during power outages. The batteries are usually charged on a charging system on the track and generally allow for a smoother and quieter ride than an electric stair lift.
Try: Ameriglide has a description and an example of a battery-powered stair lift

Straight stair lift

A straight stair lift is one that runs on a single track on the stair tread in a straight line. This is the simplest type of stair lift and usually the easiest type to install. Straight stair lifts can be electric or battery- powered.
Try: Number 1 Stair Lifts discusses straight stair lifts in more detail.

Curved stair lift

A curved stair lift is one that runs on a staircase that has odd angles or curves or has more than one set of straight stairs. This type of stair lift can help to navigate the curves of your staircase but can be more complex to install.
Try: StairLift-Info.net discusses straight versus curved stair lifts and provides video examples of both.

Rack and pinion drive system

Rack and pinion drive system is the most common type of drive system used for stair lifts today. It is a system of gears on a rail that allows for a smoother ride than other types of drive systems.
Try: The Med Supply Guide talks about the rack and pinion drive system; scroll down the page to view.

Feet per minute, FPM

Feet per minute is the measurement of speed for stair lifts. It refers to how many feet the stair lift can climb in a minute.
Try: American Elevator has a stair lift comparison chart which uses FPM for speed of stair lifts.

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