Refurbished Stairlifts (U.S.) — 2026
Buying a refurbished (reconditioned) stairlift can be a smart way to reduce upfront cost—especially for straight stairlifts, where rails are more standardized. The key is making sure you’re buying from a dealer who actually reconditions and supports the equipment, not a “sold as-is” situation.
Quick answer: what to expect
Most savings are on straight stairlifts. Curved rails are typically custom to a staircase, which makes them hard to reuse and reduces the availability of refurbished curved setups. [1]
Ask for warranty + service support. A lower price without support can become expensive fast if repairs are needed. [1]
Chair Lift for Stairs is an independent informational resource (not a dealer or installer). We base guidance on publicly available consumer cost guides and link sources below.
Last reviewed: January 2026
What “refurbished” should mean (in plain English)
There’s no single universal standard, so you’re evaluating the dealer as much as the lift. A reputable refurbishment process usually includes:
- Inspection of mechanical and electrical components
- Replacement of worn parts as needed
- Cleaning/sanitizing and functional testing
- Verification that the model is serviceable (parts availability)
- A written warranty and service terms
NCOA notes that many dealers offer certified reconditioned equipment at reduced cost, sometimes including a warranty (coverage may be limited). [1]
Typical pricing (used/refurbished)
Prices vary by region, model, and warranty coverage. As a secondary reference point, HomeAdvisor (a consumer cost-data aggregator) reports pre-owned stair lift purchases can cost about $1,500–$3,000 in some cases. [2]
Important
Used pricing is highly variable and doesn’t guarantee quality. The most important “value” factor is whether the seller provides installation, warranty, and ongoing service support.
Why refurbished curved stairlifts are rare
Curved rails are usually manufactured to match a specific staircase (turns + landings). NCOA notes that staircases with landings and turns require custom tracks and extra labor. [1]
That’s why a “used curved stairlift” often breaks down into two different pieces:
- The chair might be reusable in theory, but
- the rail usually won’t fit another home.
The buyer’s checklist (what to ask before you buy)
1) Who is the seller?
Prefer a local dealer/installer who can support service calls.
Ask:
- Do you install and service what you sell?
- Do you have parts access for this model?
- What’s the typical service response time?
2) What’s included in the price?
Ask for a written breakdown:
- Equipment + rail
- Installation
- Warranty (parts + labor)
- Service plan options (if any)
- Removal/disposal of old equipment (if needed)
3) What’s the warranty?
NCOA notes warranty coverage can vary and some dealers offer limited warranties on reconditioned equipment. [1]
Ask:
- Parts vs labor coverage
- Battery coverage (and expected replacement cadence)
- What voids coverage (e.g., moving the unit, DIY electrical work)
4) Is it actually the right fit for the user?
Even the “best deal” is the wrong deal if transfers aren’t safe. Make sure the installer evaluates:
- Seat height and transfer mechanics at top/bottom landings
- Need for swivel (manual vs power)
- Weight capacity requirements
Refurbished vs new vs rental (quick comparison)
| Option | Best for | Tradeoffs |
|---|---|---|
| Refurbished (straight) | Long-term use with lower up-front cost | Limited selection; warranty terms vary. [1] |
| New | Long-term use, full feature choice | Highest up-front cost. |
| Rental | Short-term needs | Monthly costs + possible install/removal fees. [1][2] |
FAQ
Are refurbished stairlifts safe?
They can be, if sold and installed by a reputable dealer who reconditions equipment, tests it, and supports it after installation. [1]
Can I buy a used curved stairlift?
It’s uncommon because curved rails are usually custom to a staircase and typically can’t be reused in a different home. [1][2]
How long do refurbished stairlifts last?
It depends on age, usage, battery condition, and maintenance. Plan for ongoing maintenance and eventual battery replacement, even for refurbished units. [1]
Want to compare options quickly? Try the free stairlift cost calculator.
Sources
- NCOA — “Stair Lift Costs: A Complete Guide” (reconditioned equipment guidance; custom track note for turns/landings; maintenance considerations):
https://www.ncoa.org/article/stair-lift-costs-a-complete-guide/ - HomeAdvisor — “How Much Do Stair Lifts Cost in 2025?” (pre-owned pricing context; curved rail reuse limitations; consumer cost aggregator):
https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/disability-accommodation/install-stair-lift/