Will a Stairlift Work if the Power Goes Out?

​For many individuals, a stairlift is an essential tool for maintaining independence at home. But what happens during a power outage? Does the stairlift stop working, leaving the user stuck?

Understanding Stairlift Power Sources

​To answer the question as to what happens during a power outage, it’s helpful to understand how stairlifts are powered. While a stairlift is plugged into a standard 110V outlet, the outlet itself isn’t what drives the motor. Instead, stairlifts rely on rechargeable batteries housed within the chair unit. These batteries supply the necessary energy to move the stairlift along the rail.

​How Are the Batteries Kept Charged?

​Stairlifts are designed with charging stations positioned along the rail, ensuring the batteries remain charged at all times. Thanks to this system, a stairlift remains functional even when the home's electricity goes out.

How Long Will a Stairlift Work Without Power?

​On average, most stairlifts can operate for at least 10 trips before the batteries are fully depleted. In many situations, power is restored before the stairlift ever runs out of charge, allowing uninterrupted use.

To Sum it Up

Stairlifts are designed to help a person safely navigate the stairs, even during a power outage. Check out our other blog articles for more helpful home accessibility information!