As the sun shines brighter and the temperatures begin to rise, summer is the perfect season to check in on your home essentials — and your stairlift should be high on the list. Whether you’re using it daily or just occasionally, your stairlift plays a vital role in your independence and safety at home. Just like any appliance, warmer weather can affect how it runs — and taking a few preventative steps can help ensure your stairlift remains reliable all summer long.
In this guide, we’ll explore why summer servicing is important, what you can do at home to keep your stairlift in top condition, and when it might be time to call a professional for a check-up.
Why Summer Maintenance Matters
Although stairlifts are built to be robust and reliable, the change in temperature during summer can have subtle impacts on their performance. Higher temperatures, increased humidity, and even dust from open windows or garden activity can all contribute to wear and tear.
If you’ve had your stairlift installed for a year or more, summer is an excellent time to give it some extra attention — especially before the busier autumn and winter months when it may be harder to book servicing.
Simple At-Home Checks You Can Do
Here are a few simple checks and habits to help prolong its lifespan this summer:
- Wipe Down the Rail and Seat Regularly
Dust, pet hair, and even pollen can settle on the rail and moving parts. Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to wipe the seat, armrests, and track. Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals — a mild soap solution is all that’s needed.
- Check for Obstructions
Summer often means open doors, extra activity in the house, or even grandchildren visiting. Make sure the stairlift path is always clear from loose items, shoes, or bags. Even a small obstruction can affect its performance.
- Listen for New Noises
Is your stairlift making any unfamiliar noises as it moves — a squeak, a hum, or a rattle? While Acorn stairlifts are known for their smooth ride, any change in sound could be an early sign that servicing is needed.
When to Call in one of our In- house Engineers
While there are a few tasks you can do at home, a professional service ensures the mechanical and electrical components are running safely and efficiently. Even if everything seems fine on the surface, small issues can go unnoticed and develop into bigger (and more expensive) problems later.
You might want to call an In- house Engineer if:
- Your lift is slowing down or feels sluggish
- You hear unusual noises during operation
- It stops intermittently or shows error lights
- It hasn’t been serviced in over a year
Seasonal Tips for Staying Safe and Comfortable
Here are a few extra tips to help make stairlift use even more comfortable during summer:
- Keep the surrounding area cool – If your stairlift is in a warm hallway or sun-drenched landing, consider using blinds or fans to regulate temperature.
- Stay hydrated – Especially if mobility is limited, keep water close at hand during the warmer days.
- Dress appropriately – Loose, breathable clothing is ideal, but make sure items like shawls or dressing gowns don’t trail or catch in the stairlift mechanism.
Stay Independent with Peace of Mind
Your stairlift supports your independence every day — especially if you live alone. By giving it a little seasonal care this summer, you can ensure it stays reliable, comfortable, and ready to serve you when you need it most.
