Stairlifts are a form of accessibility equipment that makes it easier for people with difficulty maneuvering stairs. However, there are various types of stairlifts available at different price points. If you’re on a tight budget, purchasing a refurbished stairlift could be a viable option for you. This guide will provide you with the pros and cons of new vs refurbished stairlifts, so you are able to make an informed decision. 

Difference In Cost

In the United States, a new, straight stairlift typically costs between $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the types of features it has (such as lift-up footrests or speed control). Meanwhile, a new curved stairlift can cost about $7,500 and even reach up to $10,000 depending on how complex the staircase is (such as multiple turns). Compared to that, refurbished stairlifts are much cheaper, sometimes only costing half of the original price of a new unit.

Other than cost, there are also other pros and cons to keep in mind when selecting a new or refurbished stairlift.

Pros of New Stairlifts

• New stairlifts arrive in pristine condition, often directly sourced from the manufacturer. 
• You can pick from a range of colors and styles of new models
• Sometimes it has a longer warranty 
• Depending on the model purchased, it usually comes with free services

Cons of New Stairlifts

• The delivery time usually takes longer 
• New models might suffer from “teething” problems, meaning it’s possible for the lift to get stuck.
• They cost considerably more than reconditioned units
• There are suppliers who impose an Extended Warranty on the model, further increasing the cost 

Pros of Refurbished Stairlifts

• Refurbished stairlifts are usually fairly new, only 12 months old with models still in production 
• They can generally be installed within a day, making the process much quicker than new stairlifts
• An extended warranty is not necessary, further reducing costs.
• Reconditioned models have a good track record in terms of workmanship
• A reputable company will overhaul and run tests on the stairlift before installation, keeping it as safe and pristine as a new model.

Cons of Refurbished Stairlifts

• They’re pre-loved, meaning they’ve been used and aren’t brand new
• There are limited features and colors compared to new stairlifts
• Reconditioned models sometimes have a shorter warranty period
• Models that are more than 3 years old might no longer be in production, making it difficult to obtain spare parts if repairs are required

Choosing a Stairlift 

When deciding what type of stairlift is the best option for you, consider your budget and your requirements. If you’ll require a stairlift as long-term equipment and have specific requirements on features, it’s good to look into buying a new stairlift. If you have a limited budget and other features are less important, a refurbished stairlift is likely a good fit. If you only require a stairlift temporarily (such as after surgery), renting a stairlift might be a viable option instead.

At Freedom Stairlifts, we are 100% committed to helping you purchase a stairlift that best suits your needs. We carry a vast selection of new, refurbished, and rented stairlifts fit for both straight and curved stairs. Contact us today to find the best stairlift for your home.