Troubleshooting tips, common stair lift problems and things to check. If your stair lift is not working, making a strange noise or won’t stop beeping there a few things you can try. These items may save you a repair call and even get your lift up and running again. The list of the most common things to check before you call:
Checking these could get your lift moving again.
- Key Switch
- Power supply
- Battery Disconnect Switch
- Error Codes
- Quick video overview
Key Switch
While it may seem obvious we often receive calls to find the key switch has been accidentally turned off. Depending on the model lift you have the key switch can be located in a few different places. One of the most common locations for the key switch is on the top landing chassis side as shown in this picture. Other places key switches are located are on the chair armrest and lower front cover. Once you locate the key switch verify operation by turning it off and then back on. There are many times a key switch can appear to be in the on position when it is actually turned just slightly to the off position.
Power Supply
Confirm the power supply is plugged into a working outlet. Most power supplies will look similar to the one in this picture. If the power supply is plugged in it may be the outlet is off. Check to see if the outlet is a switched outlet or if the breaker has tripped. If it’s a switched outlet you will want to have the power supply plugged into a dedicated outlet that is always on. A stair lift is operated and controlled by circuits that should also be protected by a surge protector. After confirming the outlet is supplying power and the power supply is plugged in check the key switch.
Battery Disconnect Switch
The battery disconnect switch is the main shut off switch for the lift. The battery disconnect switch has a different function than the key switch. Locating this switch can sometimes be difficult. The switch location will vary depending on the lift manufacture. Typically they are located on the lift in a place that won’t be knocked into easily. This picture is the disconnect switch for the stairlift model Acorn 130. This switch is located on the front panel adjacent to the diagnostics display of the HandiCare Model 1000 stair lift.
Error codes
Most stair lifts have an error code or diagnostics display located on the lift. It is good to read your owners manual and be at least somewhat familiar with these codes. After you locate the diagnostics display check to see what error code or codes are showing to diagnose common stairlift problems. Look up the code in your user manual for more details about the error. Some codes will indicate a simple problem and some will refer you to call a local stair lift repair company. It is important to never take the cover off to attempt a repair. The following is a list of the most common lifts with additional information on fault error codes and trouble indicator lights.
- Acorn Stairlift Error Codes
- Harmar Pinnacle Check List
- Sterling Fault Codes
- Summit Stairlift Troubleshooting
Stairlift Repairs
These are items that can easily be checked and do not require any tools. Many common stairlift problems can be fixed quickly without a service call. Remember we do not 
recommend opening any lift covers. Also take a look at our stair lift quick check video below. If you still need stair lift repair service in Northern Virginia, Washington DC and Maryland area give us a call at 866-721-6004. If you live outside the DC metro location check other service locations.
Things to check quick video overview
This quick video overview will demonstrate common issues with chair lifts and how to check them.
