How to buy a used stairlift without getting burned
Buying used is a great way to save money if you are on a fixed income. You can often find a used straight lift for half the price of a new one. But you have to be careful. I have seen folks buy a used lift on the internet only to find out it is missing half the parts or the motor is shot.
Where to Buy Used
The best place to buy is from a local dealer who does reconditioned lifts. They take trade-ins from families who do not need them anymore. They take them apart in the shop and clean them up and put in fresh batteries. You might pay 2,000 dollars at a shop but you get a warranty and a pro to install it.
If you buy from a private person on Facebook or Craigslist you might get it for 500 dollars. But then you have to figure out how to take it apart and put it back together. I do not recommend doing this yourself. These things are heavy and if you do not line up the rail perfect it can be dangerous.
What to Check Before You Pay
If you are looking at a used lift in someone else’s house ask them to run it up and down. Listen for grinding noises. A good lift should be quiet. If it clunks or squeals the rollers are bad.
* Check the battery date. If they are more than 3 years old they are junk.
* Look at the rail for deep scratches or rust.
* Make sure the remote controls actually work.
Used Curved Lifts Are a Bad Idea
I am going to tell you something the guy selling his lift wont tell you. Do not buy a used curved lift. Those rails are custom made for one specific house. The chances of that rail fitting your stairs are almost zero. You will end up with a 12,000 dollar piece of scrap metal in your garage. Stick to used straight lifts only.