How does a stairlift work?

A stairlift works by using a battery-powered motor to move a chair smoothly along a track that is fixed to the stair treads. The system is designed to be simple and safe to operate.

Here’s how it functions:

  • Motor & Gear System – A compact motor drives a gear that engages with a toothed rail, moving the chair up or down at a controlled speed.
  • User Controls – The lift is operated via switches on the armrest or a handheld remote. It stops automatically when the control is released.
  • Safety Features – Stairlifts include seatbelts, swivel seats for safe entry and exit, and sensors that detect and stop the lift if an obstacle is in the way.
  • Power Supply – Although connected to mains electricity, most stairlifts use rechargeable batteries, allowing them to keep running during a power cut.
  • Design Practicalities – Seats, armrests, and footplates can usually fold away, ensuring the staircase remains usable for others.

This combination of features makes stairlifts a safe, reliable, and convenient solution for navigating stairs.

By

  • 24/7 breakdown support

  • Established in 1988

  • 5-star rated

  • Which? Trusted Traders

Stairlifts main work

Stairlifts

Whether you have straight, curved, or narrow stairs, we’ll find you a stairlift solution.

Lifts main work

Lifts

No matter your specific needs, we have a lift that will seamlessly integrate with your home.

Ramps main work

Ramps

Steps, thresholds, uneven surfaces, and various steps can be easily navigated with our ramps.

try before you buy

Visit the UK’s Largest Stairlift Showroom

Visit the UK’s Largest Stairlift Showroom

Test, try and explore our range of stairlifts – all under one roof in Baldock, Hertfordshire.

Meet our mobility experts

Why Visit Our Showroom?

Why Visit Our Showroom?

Experience our products firsthand in our state-of-the-art showroom in Baldock, Hertfordshire, home to the UK’s largest display of stairlifts and mobility equipment. Here, you can try and test a wide range of solutions to find the perfect fit for your needs. Every visit and demonstration is designed to make your experience seamless and personal.

At EMS Lifts, we blend local accessibility with national expertise. Our showroom is a testament to our commitment to hands-on service, ensuring you’re supported at every step of the journey.