Acorn Stairlift Review
Best for Fast Delivery and Installation
Seniors suffering with mobility issues require a solution as soon as possible. Acorn Stairlift‘s engineers created the innovative modular FastTrack rail system to significantly reduce the normal wait time required to fabricate custom straight and curved stairway models. The result is a stairlift that’s constructed and installed to meet your unique circumstances without the wait.
Acorn Stairlift’s representatives communicate directly with customers to prevent the confusion that can sometimes arise when using third-party dealers and installers. Its team assesses the home and evaluates specific needs to efficiently deliver a custom stairlift.
Pros:
- Offers next day installation for its Acorn 180 Curved Stairlift featuring its innovative FastTrack system
- All models have a hinge option to fold railing away from the base of the stairs
- Features a slimline design and folding seats to save space
- Low running costs for operation and causes no structural damage to home on installation
Cons:
- Only three models of stairlifts to choose from
Overview of Acorn Stairlifts
In operation since 1992, U.K.-based Acorn Stairlifts has expanded to include mobility equipment internationally. Its U.S. headquarters is located in Orlando, Florida, with service locations nationwide.
The company eliminates the need for third-party dealers and installers by selling directly to consumers. Acorn Stairlifts streamlines the installation process for seniors with mobility issues. Its unique modular stair-mounted design system adheres to seniors’ safety, comfort and style specifications.
The Acorn 130
The Acorn 180
The Acorn 130 Outdoor
Estimated Costs
Pricing available with consultation
Pricing available with consultation
Pricing available with consultation
Stairlift Rail Type
Straight
Curved
Straight
Maximum Weight Capacity
-280 pounds
-350 pounds for heavy-duty version
265 pounds
280 pounds
Key Feature
Simple design with numerous safety features
Faster than average installation and delivery
Comes with a weather-resistant cover and keyed lock
Upholstery Options
Vinyl
Vinyl
Weather-resistant vinyl
Warranty
12-month manufacturer guarantee
12-month manufacturer guarantee
12-month manufacturer guarantee
How Much Does an Acorn Stairlift Cost?
Because each of Acorn Stairlift’s FastTrack rail systems is customized to meet individual needs, the company doesn’t provide a price list. As a general guideline, however, straight stairway lifts average between $2,000 and $5,500. Curved and multi-level stairlifts can begin at around $3,000, and they can cost as much as $12,000 to $15,000. For an accurate evaluation, contact the Acorn Stairlift sales team to request an in-home consultation.
Full Review of Acorn Stairlift’s Features
Acorn Stairlifts offers three base models, and each has distinct features and customizable options. All the company’s products adhere to stringent safety requirements. Following are some of the stairlifts’ standard features.
Safety Sensors
The chair and footrest have built-in sensors to detect obstructions on the rail or stairs, automatically stopping the device.
Speed Regulator
The regulator ensures the chair travels at a measured consistent speed, preventing sudden excessive movement.
Swivel Seat Movement Lock
The seat locks in place when swiveled to 45 degrees or 90 degrees, helping the rider to maintain balance while sitting or standing. The seat positioning also blocks the rider from falling backward.
Arm Interlocking Mechanism
The stairlift doesn’t operate until the chair arm is in the down position.
Charging Point
The chair’s final limit switch ensures the device stops directly above a charging point, so that it can recharge when not in use.
Continuous Battery Charge
The home’s electricity serves to continuously charge the stairlift’s battery. In the event of a power outage, that charge allows the rider between six and 20 minutes of power to safely arrive.
Acorn 130
Weight Capacity
The standard capacity of this model is 300 pounds, but you can add a heavy-duty package to increase the weight limit to 350 pounds.
Stairway Type
This model only operates on straight stairways.
Upholstery and Finish Options
The Acorn 130 is available in a beige vinyl upholstery fabric with steel gray rails.
Key Features
While the Acorn 130 is the company’s most budget-friendly model, it still provides high-end standard features, such as armrest-embedded intuitive controls.
Acorn 180
Weight Capacity
The maximum allowable weight is 265 pounds.
Stairway Type
This model operates on a curved and multi-level stairway, with the ability to stop past the top of the stairs and on the landing.
Upholstery and Finish Options
The Acorn 180 is provided in beige vinyl upholstery and highlighted with steel gray rails.
Key Features
With the modular FastTrack rail system, the Acorn 180 can fit most stairways. Its most notable feature is that it can be installed within a couple of days.
Acorn 130 Outdoor
Weight Capacity
The standard weight limit is 300 pounds; however, that can be increased to 350 pounds by adding a heavy-duty package.
Stairway Type
This model can be installed on a straight stairway.
Upholstery and Finish Options
The Acorn 130 Outdoor model is featured in beige weather-resistant vinyl and steel gray rails. An all-weather fitted cover is included.
Key Features
This is a waterproof and UV-resistant model that holds up to extreme temperatures. While the Acorn 130 Outdoor has straight stairway limitations, it may be possible to combine multiple rails to accommodate multi-tier configurations.
Who Should Consider Acorn Stairlifts?
Individuals with Mobility Disabilities
Because each Acorn Stairlift is tailored to meet your needs, the company’s representative can help create a package that checks all the boxes, including safety, comfort, style and budget.
Seniors who Want To Continue Living Independently in Their Own Homes
Seniors with mobility issues can continue living productive independent lives in their own homes with the added benefit of a stairlift to help them access all areas.
What Are People Saying About Acorn Stairlifts?
Overall, reviewers provide positive feedback on the product itself, citing its quality and ease of use. Customers are also impressed with the company’s prompt delivery and installation, particularly noting appreciation for the installers’ thorough and patient explanation of how to operate the device.
However, the concerns expressed on TrustPilot, the Better Business Bureau and Consumer Affairs carry a consistent thread of poor customer service. However, such complaints are location-specific, as some of the company’s highest reviews reference great customer care.
In fact, Acorn Stairlifts carries a respectable 4.7 out of 5 rating on TrustPilot, a 4.42 out of 5 with the BBB and a 4 out of 5 on Consumer Affairs.
FAQs
How Much Weight Does a Stairlift Hold?
The standard weight limits are 265 for the Acorn 180 and 300 pounds for the Acorn 130 and 130 Outdoor. A heavy-duty package can increase the weight capacity to 350 pounds. Click here for our full answer to this question.
Can Stairlifts be Fitted to Any Stairs?
Each stairlift model is designed for compatibility with certain stairway configurations, such as straight and curved stairways. Custom options are also available to extend that compatibility. Click here for our full answer to this question.
How Long Does it Take To Install a Stairlift?
Stairlift installations typically take weeks. With Acorn’s modular system, however, that time frame is reduced to a few days. Click here for our full answer to this question.
Does Medicare Pay for Stairlifts?
Medicare classifies stairlifts as home improvements rather than durable medical equipment. It only covers the costs in very rare situations. Click here for our full answer to this question.
Does Insurance Cover a Stairlift?
Private health insurance companies do not typically cover stairlifts for the same reasons cited by Medicare. Situations in which they may be allowable are the exception rather than the rule. Click here for our full answer to this question.