Stannah Stairlift Review

Best for Custom Stairlifts

Stannah Stairlifts allows seniors with mobility issues greater accessibility to all areas of the home. The company offers five base model chairlift systems that are easily customizable to meet your style, safety and comfort requirements. You can personalize your Stannah Stairlift with a wide variety of options, ranging from upholstery fabric to rail systems.

The company provides seniors with the opportunity to match the stairlift to the home’s decor. It also tailors its models’ safety and accessibility features to accommodate your preferences and requirements.

Overview of Stannah Stairlifts

In operation since the 1860s, the Stannah brand began as a crane and hoist manufacturer in England. The fifth-generation family-owned business has evolved into Stannah Stairlifts and expanded to include several U.S. headquarters and an extensive dealer network.

All Stannah Stairlift models are equipped with standard features, including two remote controls, automatic and manual seat swivel options, chair position lock, and power or manual seat fold-away configurations. Seniors also have a wide selection of custom options available.

How Much Does a Stannah Stairlift Cost?

Because Stannah Stairlifts are highly customizable, pricing can range from $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the number and type of upgrades and the staircase configuration. A home survey is required to pinpoint exact pricing. However, the costs do include installation and warranties. 

Although Stannah Stairlift doesn’t offer financing, seniors may find some authorized dealers who work with a third-party lender. If you only need a stairlift for short-term recuperation, you might also consider a rental, which could be a significant savings from the $3,000 base price. A Stannah representative can help meet your mobility needs while remaining within budget.

Full Review of Stannah Stairlifts’ Features

While each model offers specific design characteristics, all Stannah Stairlifts share baseline quality safety features.

Safety Sensors

All Stannah Stairlift models have sensors built into the chair’s seat. The stairlift stops until you’re securely positioned in the seat. Footrests also feature 10 safety sensors that stop the lift when encountering an obstruction.

Seatbelts

Each model incorporates a seatbelt option to accommodate seniors’ specific circumstances.

Arm Isolation

The downstairs-facing armrest must be locked into place before the chair’s controls can be activated.

Swivel Seats

Each model’s swivel seat is equipped with a power or manual lock that holds the seat securely in place and prevents the user from falling backward while dismounting at the top of the stairs.

Continual Battery Charge

The home’s electricity continually charges the Stannah Stairlift’s 12-volt internal battery. In the event of a power outage, you have between 6 and 20 minutes of stored energy to operate the stairlift, so you’re not suddenly stranded between floors.

In addition to the standard features, each model offers specific design elements and upgrade customizations to better meet your needs. Key characteristics and capabilities are included here.

Starla

Weight Capacity

The Starla weight capacity for its curved track version is 300 pounds. Its straight track weight limit is 350 pounds.

Stairway and Landing Functionality

Starla is customizable to accommodate any length curved or straight staircase. This model comes to rest on the upper and lower landings.

Seat Features

Starla’s seats feature a generously padded high-back design.

Upholstery and Finish Options

Starla offers the widest selection of customizable options, including multiple finishes, a wide variety of vinyl and woven upholstery fabric and six rail colors.

Footrest

Seniors may choose manual or power footrest maneuverability.

Sienna

Weight Capacity

The Sienna model also offers two weight capacity options. Its curved track design accommodates up to 300 pounds, and the straight track holds up to 350 pounds.

Stairway and Landing

Sienna is well suited for narrow staircases.

Seat Features

Sienna features curved-back seats with a slim profile and deep-seated positioning. A wider seat is a customized option.

Upholstery and Finish Options

This model’s upholstery options include waterproof vinyl in six color choices with an assortment of rail color selections.

Footrest

The slender footrest matches Sienna’s slender seat design, with a wider footrest option.

Sadler

Weight Capacity

The Sadler model has a 300-pound weight capacity.

Stairway and Landing

This model is designed for curved or multi-tiered stairways, with the seat coming to rest on the top and lower landings.

Seat Features

As the name suggests, the Sadler features a saddle-style seat. Its height can be gently raised or lowered to assist seniors with sitting and standing.

Upholstery and Finish Options

The Sadler is only available in a woven beige fabric with light wood trim. However, it does include six rail color options.

Seatbelt

As an added safety feature, this model’s immobilizing seat belt must be securely buckled before the chair can operate.

Footrest

The footrest automatically folds when the armrest is raised.

Scout

Weight Capacity

The Scout’s maximum weight capacity is 300 pounds.

Stairway and Landing Suitability

This model is designed for straight stair configurations and is suitable for narrow stairways.

Seat Features

The Scout’s features include a swivel seat with an adjustable height and ergonomic controls.

Upholstery and Finish Options

The most affordably priced Stannah Stairlift, the Scout is available in a nut brown vinyl upholstery with a pearl rail color.

Seatbelt

Its center-clasp seatbelt offers easy accessibility. 

Footrest

Scout’s anti-slip footrest allows adjustable height positioning.

Outdoor 320

Weight Capacity

The Outdoor 320 model offers a 300-pound weight limit.

Stairway and Landing Suitability

The model accommodates straight stairways of any length and a 27-inch minimum width.

Seat Features

The ergonomically positioned joystick control allows for streamlined maneuverability.

Upholstery and Finish Options

The Outdoor 320 is featured in a light gray, UV-resistant, waterproof plastic upholstery highlighted by a steel gray rail color. A fitted all-weather cover protects the seat when not in use.

Seatbelt

Seniors can secure themselves with a center-clasp seatbelt.

Footrest

The anti-skid footrest provides added safety.

Who Should Consider a Stannah Stairlift?

Individuals Who Are Recovering From Surgery

Stannah Stairlifts offers a wide range of chairlift options, including a short-term rental plan for individuals who require mobility assistance while recovering from surgery.

Seniors Who Want to Remain in Their Homes

Installing a Stannah Stairlift provides seniors with the necessary mobility to remain independent. They have the ability to access all floors of the home.

What Are People Saying About Stannah Stairlifts?

While some individuals reported problems with Stannah Stairlifts’ customer service and nonexistent emergency repair service on the Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot‘s websites, the company maintains 4.45 out of 5 and 4.7 out of 5 ratings, respectively.

Many reviewers comment on the positive installation experience and the smooth functionality of the lift devices. They’ve noted the improved quality of life for members of their family who were previously sidelined with mobility issues. Other key comments address the benefit of Stannah Stairlifts’ added safety features.

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