Bruno Independent Living Aids Stairlift Review
Best Overall Quality
Bruno Independent Living Aids Stairlifts deliver the best overall quality among all the residential stairlift companies reviewed by Caring.com. Family-owned and operated, Bruno Independent Living Aids makes three indoor and two outdoor stairlifts in Wisconsin, including models designed for curved staircases.
Straight indoor stairlifts made by Bruno Independent Living Aids are backed by a non-transferrable limited lifetime warranty on all major components, including the gear box, motor, rail and drive train. Curved and outdoor stairlifts come with a 5-year non-transferable warranty, and all five stairlift models include 30 days of free labor on service calls to address any manufacturing defects.
Pros:
- Space-saving vertical rails and hidden gear racks save space and limit exposure to grease and dirt
- Installation is often completed the same day for straight tracks and within three days for custom curved installations
- Generous limited lifetime or 5-year long warranties on all major parts
- Continuously charging batteries protect against power surges and electrocution and keep lifts running during power outages
Cons:
- Most expensive outdoor models may exceed $14,000+, but are known for their exceptional quality
- Purchases cannot be made through the Bruno website, but Bruno helps customers search for a dealer near them
Overview of Bruno Independent Living Aids Stairlifts
Headquartered in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, Bruno Independent Living Aids, Inc. is a veteran-founded, family-owned stairlift company that maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Bruno manufactures five residential stairlifts at its Wisconsin facility, including two all-weather stairlifts for outdoor use, and three indoor stairlifts.
The Elan SRE 3050
The Elite SRE 2010
The Elite Curve CRE 2110
The Elite Outdoor CRE 2010E
The Elite Curve Outdoor CRE 2110E
Estimated Costs*
$3,500+
$4,600+
$9,500+
$6,000+
$12,000+
Stairlift Rail Type
Straight
Straight
Curved
Straight
Curved
Maximum Weight Capacity
300 pounds
400 pounds
400 pounds
400 pounds
400 pounds
Key Feature
Unique rail design offers an unobtrusive profile for tighter spaces
Premium, stylized seat
Best option for larger people
Tested in extreme weather
Custom curved rail extendable for longer stairs
Upholstery Options
Vinyl or burgundy leather
Vinyl or burgundy leather
Vinyl or burgundy leather
Marine-grade vinyl
Marine-grade vinyl
Warranty
-Limited lifetime for motor, gearbox, rail
-2 years for all components
-30 days of labor coverage for defects
-Limited lifetime for motor, gearbox, rail
-2 years for all components
-30 days of labor coverage for defects
-5 years for major components
-2 years on all components
-30 days of labor coverage for defects
-5 years for major components
-2 years on all components
-30 days of labor coverage for defects
-5 years for major components
-2 years on all components
-30 days of labor coverage for defects
How Much Does a Bruno Independent Living Aids Stairlift Cost?
Pricing for Bruno stairlifts varies depending on the model, length and style of staircase, custom options and local installation rates. In general, a straight indoor stairlift from Bruno Independent Living Aids costs between $3,500 and $5,000, while curved indoor stairlifts start at $10,000. Pricing for outdoor straight stairlifts starts at $5,500, while outdoor curved stairlifts cost upwards of $10,500.
Local and state regulations requiring installation permits and inspections add to the total price of a Bruno Independent Living Aids stairlift, as could any increases in the price of steel, aluminum and electronic components used in the manufacturing process.
Full Review of Bruno Independent Living Aids Stairlifts’s Features
Bruno Independent Living Aids is a family-owned and operated, veteran-founded company that’s been in business for over 35 years. All Bruno Independent Living Aids stairlifts are manufactured in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin and installed by a nationwide network of approved contractors.
All Bruno Independent Living Aids straight stairlifts are backed by a lifetime limited warranty on all major components. This warranty applies to the original purchaser only. Bruno’s curved and outdoor stairlifts are covered by a 5-year non-transferable warranty on all major components.
Bruno Independent Living Aids makes five stairlift models with weight limits ranging from 300 to 400 pounds. Two models are designed for outdoor use: the Elite Outdoor Stair Lift and the Elite Curved Outdoor Stair Lift. All Bruno Independent Living Aids stairlifts include a built-in battery that automatically engages in the event of a power failure.
Bruno Independent Living Aids Indoor Stairlifts
Elan Stair Lift
The Elan Stair Lift from Bruno Independent Living Aids is an indoor residential stairlift that accommodates users weighing up to 300 pounds. Designed for installation on straight staircases, the Elan Stair Lift includes an armrest control plus two wireless remotes.
The seat on the Elan Stair Lift swivels up to 90 degrees for safe boarding, and the integrated obstruction sensors and seat belt help ensure safe operation of the device. When not in use, the arms, seat and footrest fold inwards.
Optional features include a folding rail to accommodate narrow hallways, a powered swivel seat and a power folding footrest.
Elite Stair Lift
The Elite Stair Lift is Bruno Independent Living Aids’ mid-range indoor stairlift. It can accommodate riders weighing up to 400 pounds, and customers can choose from a variety of chair rail and seat colors to match their decor.
Options on the Elite Stair Lift include a larger footrest, larger seat and power swivel seat.
Elite Curved Stair Lift
The Elite Curved Stair Lift offers the same features as the Elite Stair Lift paired with a custom-made railing for curved staircases.
Bruno Independent Living Aids Outdoor Stairlifts
Elite Outdoor Stair Lift
The Elite Outdoor Stair Lift from Bruno Independent Living Aids is an all-weather straight stairlift that features a rust-free anodized aluminum rail, lightweight weather cover and durable seat designed for outdoor use.
The Elite Outdoor Stair Life has a weight capacity of 400 pounds, and it’s approved for use in temperatures ranging from 0 degrees up to 125 degrees Fahrenheit.
Elite Curved Outdoor Stair Lift
Bruno’s Elite Curved Outdoor Stair Lift is an innovative mobility aid that’s custom-made for curved outdoor staircases. This all-weather stairlift features a power swivel seat, lightweight protective cover and durable finish that’s resistant to UV damage.
Who Should Consider Bruno Independent Living Aids Stairlifts?
Seniors Who Struggle to Safely Navigate Their Stairs
Seniors are at a high risk of falls that can cause life-altering injuries. A Bruno Independent Living Aids stairlift virtually eliminates the risk of suffering a fall on a staircase for seniors who are struggling to safely climb and descend their stairs.
Seniors Who Are Considering Moving Because They Can’t Access All Areas of Their Home
One of the most common reasons seniors choose to leave the home they love is mobility issues, and in particular, trouble climbing up and down stairs. Bruno Independent Living Aids stairlifts can be installed on most indoor and outdoor staircases, making these stairlifts a great option for seniors who are considering giving up their home simply because they can no longer climb stairs.
What Are People Saying About Bruno Independent Living Aids Stairlifts
Bruno Independent Living Aids, Inc. has been in business for more than 35 years. During that time, the company has become one of the most trusted names in residential stairlifts.
One reviewer says that they appreciate the quick response from Bruno’s sales team, as well as the fact that no high-pressure sales tactics are used. Another satisfied customer mentions that while Bruno Independent Living Aids stairlifts are quite pricey, the cost is well worth it, thanks to the quality of the product, the outstanding customer service and the lifetime warranty.
Complaints regarding Bruno Independent Living Aids stairlifts largely center around issues with some installers contracted by the company, rather than the products. One unhappy customer says that there are only two installers in their area, and neither returned her phone calls.
FAQs
How Much Weight Does a Stairlift Hold?
The weight limit of a stairlift depends on the model. In general, most stairlifts can accommodate individuals weighing between 250 and 350 pounds. Click here for our full answer to this question.
Are Stairlifts Easy to Use?
Yes. Residential stairlifts are designed to be safe and simple to use. Click here for our full answer to this question.
Can I Install My Own Stairlift?
While it may be possible to install your own stairlift, doing so may void the manufacturers’ warranty. Click here for our full answer to this question.
Can You Put a Stairlift on Narrow Stairs?
Yes. Some stairlift companies make stairlifts that are specifically designed for installation on narrow stairs. Click here for our full answer to this question.
Can Stairlifts be Fitted to Any Stairs?
Stairlifts can be fitted to a wide range of indoor and outdoor residential stairs, including curved staircases. Stairlifts cannot be installed on spiral staircases or folding stairs. Click here for our full answer to this question.