When purchasing a stairlift, choosing between a reconditioned model and a brand new unit represents one of the most significant decisions affecting both your budget and long-term satisfaction.
Understanding the real differences, benefits, and potential drawbacks of each option helps you make an informed choice that balances cost savings against reliability and features.
Understanding Reconditioned Stairlifts
Reconditioned stairlifts are previously owned units that have been removed from their original installation. They’ve been thoroughly inspected, refurbished, and prepared for resale.
Reputable reconditioning involves replacing worn mechanical components. It includes updating safety features to current standards. The seat and carriage are repainted or recovered. All functions are comprehensively tested before installation.
The quality of reconditioning varies significantly between suppliers. Established companies follow rigorous refurbishment processes and provide warranties comparable to new units. Less reputable sellers may simply clean used equipment without proper mechanical overhaul.
Always enquire about the specific reconditioning process and what components are routinely replaced.
Cost Comparison
Reconditioned stairlifts typically cost 40-60% less than equivalent new models. A straight reconditioned stairlift might cost £1,200-£2,000 installed compared to £2,500-£3,500 for new. This substantial saving makes stairlifts accessible to people who couldn’t otherwise afford them.
However, curved stairlifts present a more complex picture.
Because curved rail systems are custom-manufactured for specific staircases, finding a reconditioned curved stairlift that fits your exact staircase proves extremely difficult. Whilst some companies offer reconditioned curved units, they require rail modifications or complete rail replacement, significantly reducing cost advantages.
For curved staircases, the price difference between reconditioned and new narrows considerably. Often to 20-30% rather than the 50% savings possible with straight models. You can compare straight stairlift costs to get a better sense of potential savings.
Warranty and Support Considerations
New stairlifts typically come with manufacturer warranties of two to five years covering parts and labour. Reconditioned units usually offer shorter warranties, commonly 12 months, though some premium refurbishers provide extended coverage.
This difference in warranty length reflects the reality that reconditioned mechanical components, despite thorough refurbishment, have some prior wear.
The warranty terms matter significantly. Check whether the warranty covers both parts and labour. Find out if it includes call-out charges. Ask whether you must use the supplier for annual servicing to maintain warranty validity.
Some companies provide excellent support for reconditioned units, whilst others offer minimal aftercare. A new stairlift with comprehensive warranty from a reputable manufacturer provides greater peace of mind, particularly if you plan to use the equipment for many years.
Longevity and Reliability
Modern stairlifts are engineered for longevity.
Quality models last 10-15 years with proper maintenance. A reconditioned stairlift has already used several years of this lifespan, meaning its remaining service life is correspondingly shorter.
If you need a stairlift for temporary use, perhaps during recovery from surgery or hip replacement, a reconditioned unit offers excellent value. For long-term installation, a new stairlift’s extended lifespan may justify the higher initial cost.
Reliability differences between new and reconditioned units depend heavily on reconditioning quality. A professionally refurbished stairlift from a reputable supplier can be just as reliable as new equipment during the warranty period. However, once warranties expire, reconditioned units statistically require repairs sooner than new models.
Factor potential repair costs into your total cost of ownership calculation. Understanding overall stairlift costs helps with this assessment.
Features and Technology
New stairlifts incorporate the latest technology, safety features, and design improvements.
Recent innovations include slimmer profiles that obstruct less of the staircase. Quieter motors reduce noise disturbance. More sophisticated diagnostic systems improve reliability. Improved battery technology provides better power efficiency and longer backup power during outages.
Reconditioned stairlifts reflect the technology available when they were originally manufactured, which might be 5-10 years old. Whilst they meet current safety standards after reconditioning, they may lack modern conveniences and energy efficiency improvements.
If specific features matter to you, such as particularly compact folding dimensions, advanced swivel seats, or the quietest possible operation, a new model likely delivers better results.
Environmental Considerations
Choosing a reconditioned stairlift represents an environmentally responsible decision. It extends the useful life of equipment that might otherwise be scrapped.
Manufacturing new products consumes resources and energy. Reconditioning reuses existing materials and reduces waste.
If environmental impact influences your purchasing decisions, reconditioned units offer clear advantages.
Availability and Lead Times
New stairlifts, particularly straight models from major manufacturers, are readily available. Installation typically occurs within one to three weeks of ordering.
Curved models require custom manufacturing, extending lead times to 6-12 weeks. Reconditioned straight stairlifts may be available immediately if the supplier has suitable stock, but finding a specific model or colour can take longer.
For curved staircases, reconditioned options are rarely available. If found, they may require substantial lead times for rail modification.
Who Should Choose Each Option?
Reconditioned stairlifts represent excellent value for people needing temporary mobility solutions. Those on limited budgets where cost is the primary concern benefit most. Environmentally conscious buyers comfortable with refurbished equipment find them appealing. Individuals with straight staircases where reconditioned options are readily available see the best savings.
New stairlifts make more sense for long-term installations where extended lifespan justifies higher costs. Buyers prioritising latest features and longest warranties prefer new models. People with curved staircases where reconditioning offers limited savings should consider new. Those who prefer knowing their equipment has no prior history or wear opt for new.
If you’re still deciding whether you need a stairlift, this choice can wait until after that determination.
Making Your Decision
The choice between reconditioned and new stairlifts isn’t simply about upfront cost. It’s about total value over the period you’ll use the equipment.
Consider how long you need the stairlift. Think about your budget flexibility. Weigh the importance of specific features. Assess your comfort level with refurbished equipment.
A reconditioned stairlift from a reputable supplier with comprehensive warranty can provide excellent value. A new unit offers maximum longevity, latest features, and peace of mind.
Request quotes for both options from reputable local installers. Compare not just prices but warranty terms, included services, and the supplier’s reputation for aftercare support.
The best value option depends on your individual circumstances. Understanding these differences ensures you make a decision that meets both your mobility needs and financial situation. For temporary needs, you might also consider rental options, which offer another alternative to purchasing.
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