For numerous people with injuries or disabilities, a valuable mechanical device used for traveling up and down stairs (and lifting) is referred to as a stair lift. There are also wheelchair lifts for those who have difficulty transferring. To the treads of a staircase, a rail is mounted. Attached to that rail, a chair or lifting platform raises and lowers the rider up and down the stairs. These systems offer independence and accessibility for those who may otherwise be confined to one single level of their home.
If you have considered investing in one of these systems, you may be wondering about the energy use of stair lifts. After all, appliances are being used in homes today that are Energy Star appliances – along with “low-flow” faucets, toilets, and showerheads, and more – in the interest of being eco-friendly.
Let\’s explore the topic of energy use and today\’s stair lifts.
What Powers a Stair Lift?
Two batteries power your stair lift. Batteries operate the unit when it\’s used to go down or up the stairs. Not the electricity that supplies your home with power.
After installation, so that the batteries can recharge whenever necessary, the unit is plugged into a standard wall outlet. The electricity in your home delivers a small energy amount to recharge the batteries when, and only when, they need charging.
When needed, your stair lift will automatically recharge. Once the batteries are fully charged, it will turn off. So, when not in use, the batteries of your stair lift will not be activated.
One of the best aspects here is that even if the power in your home goes out, you won\’t be stranded. Your battery-powered stair lift will still continue to operate as long as there is a charge in the batteries.
How Long Do Stair Lift Batteries Last?
The life of your stair lift batteries will depend on a number of factors. Ordinarily, with heavy use, a 1 to 3-year life expectancy can be enjoyed. With light use, 3 to 5 years. The following factors can also have an effect on battery usage and life expectancy:
- Brand of stair lift
- Frequency of usage
- Slope/incline of the stairs
- Weight of the user
The life of the batteries in your stair lift will assuredly be affected by one or more of the above-stated factors. Consult with a representative of Freedom Stairlifts if you have any questions or concerns regarding any of these aspects of battery usage.
The Bottom Line
Following stair lift installation, your home\’s electric bill should experience no significant changes. Using roughly .024 kW of electricity, stairlifts are energy efficient and could cost under $15 annually. (This precise amount will vary depending upon rates in your area.)
Have More Accessibility With Minimal Energy Usage
At Freedom Stairlifts, we take pride in our expert installation of stair lifts, wheelchair lifts, and wheelchair elevators. We carry both indoor and outdoor models and can install your stair lift before you know it. We even make sure to clean up after ourselves, so you\’re not left with a mess.
Contact us to find out more today!
