Residential stair lifts can provide freedom to move up and down the stairs despite their physical condition. However, the cost of purchasing one can be expensive and may be hard on the pocket. Most stair lifts available in the market today have many features which adds to the cost. For those who have a tight budget but in need of a lift, Summit Stair Lift offers cheap but reliable mobility products.
Summit stairlifts are much more inexpensive than other brands but then it does not compromise the features which is also found on the other brands. Its most notable feature are the safety systems. It has constant pressure controls that automatically stops the equipment the moment they are released. There are limits that ensures the carriage will stop at both ends of the stairs. As in other brands, it has sensors on the footrest which stops the carriage when there is an obstacle.
Summit uses a cable system unlike other brands using the rack and pinion. Although the latter ensures a smoother start and stop, they require cleaning and regular lubrication to prevent the parts from being damaged. On the other hand, the cable system requires minimal maintenance. Aside from that, Summit models use aircraft cable with a rating for 4,200 lbs which means that the chair has a maximum capacity of 350 lbs. The more expensive brands only has a maximum weight of below 300 lbs.
Summit Stair Lifts use the standard AC 115 VAC, 15 AMP minimum grounded circuit as power source. Majority of the models in the market run of DC rechargeable
batteries. Although the battery operated lifts guarantees smoother starts and stops than the AC powered ones, you need to replace the batteries from time to time which may add to the expenses of maintaining the unit. Aside from that, rechargeable batteries need to be charged after 20 round trips making the AC powered lift the better alternative.
In addition, because of its simple design, Summit lifts can be easily installed. If you have knowledge of DIY, installing and fitting a lift can be an enjoyable and worthwhile experience for you. At the same time, it can free you from paying the installation cost. But even so, it is not suggested that you install a stairlift yourself.
Aside from a little less smooth ride compared with other brands, there are other disadvantages of buying a Summit Stair Lift. First of all, should you opt to sell it in the future, you will realize that it is not as in demand as the other brands of lifts. Aside from that, you will not receive the additional features installed in the more expensive brands even if you ask for them.
Usually, you get the standard features only. So if it has a manual swivel chair, you cannot ask for a motorized seat such as the ones found in brands like Stannah. Aside from that, you cannot request for a wide array of safety belt options like those in other brands. It has a basic look but if you are budget conscious, the appearance does not matter.
Many consumer reviews of stair lifts agree that although it is not the best model in terms of functionality or style, Summit is comparable with other models on the aspect of safety. Its biggest advantage is its cost.