Acorn Superglide 120 Stair Lift

Acorn Superglide Stair Lifts - Features
• Lifetime Warranty
• Maintenance-free DC power
• Easy-to-use joystick operation
• Diagnostic digital display
• Smooth start/stop action
• Lockable isolation switch
• Swivel Seat
• Fold-up seat & footrest
• Infrared remote controls
• Safety cutout sensors
• Electronic and mechanical braking systems
• Near silent in operation
• 294 lb weight capacity (350 lb available)
• Designed for simple installation


Acorn Superglide Stair Lifts - Power Supply
Acorn Superglide are powered by direct current (DC), supplied by rechargeable batteries, which deliver a smooth, ultra-quiet and safe ride quality. The batteries are maintenance free and charged by a safe 15 volts AC, which is stepped-down from the domestic mains supply by the transformer.

* The stair lift remains operative, even if the mains supply is interrupted
* There is no mains voltage to any of the operating parts of the stair lift
* There are no troublesome trailing mains cables, as with all AC powered lifts
* Allows rapid and simple installation, without mess or disruption
* Delivers smooth and near silent operational characteristics
* 'Soft Start & Stop' means that there is no jolting or lurching as the lift starts or finishes its journey. This adds to the feeling of safety and stability.

Acorn Superglide Stair Lifts - Ride Quality
The peerless ride quality is attributed to our unique rail profile and chassis roller system, in conjunction with the DC Power and rack and pinion drive systems. Typically, other stair lifts feature four, or sometimes six chassis rollers and a box section rail. The Acorn Superglide stair lift has eight rollers, giving a surface contact area at least four times greater than competitor products, which, coupled with our unique double tube rail profile, gives the smoothest, quietest and most luxurious ride quality currently available, and a superb feeling of safety and stability when using the stair lift.

Acorn Superglide Stair Lifts - Safety Features
Acorn Stair Lifts have an impressive array of safety features built in as standard. These include:

Choice of Control. Acorn Superglide Stair Lifts are controlled by, either the mechanical 'joystick' fitted to the seat arm, or by way of the infra red remote control handset, two of which are supplied. The mechanical controls over-ride the remote controls. The remote controls are ideal when there are 2 users in the house so that the lift can be 'sent' or 'called' up - and downstairs. The wireless design means that there is no unsightly wall mounted wiring or control stations.

Swivel seat with locking catch. The stair lift seat swivels, and locks in postion, making mounting and dismounting from the stair lift easy and safe. The stair lift will not operate unless the seat is in the correct riding position.

Pressure sensitive safety surfaces. There are 5 surfaces / edges that stop the stair lift in event of a collision with any obstruction on the stairway. These are located around the footrest, and on the top and bottom of the carriage.

Diagnostic Digital Display. Mounted on the carriage of the stair lift is a digital display, which shows clearly when the lift is in the normal operating position, and also provide invaluable diagnostic information in the unlikely event of a fault with your stair lift.

Electronic and mechanical braking systems. The stair lift is fitted as standard with these essential safety systems to eliminate any possibility of an uncontrolled descent of the stair lift.

Limit sensors. At the end of either an ascent or descent the stair lift will come to a 'soft stop' due to the limit sensors, these ensure that the stair lift always stops in the correct position.

More Acorn Stair Lift info here;

Acorn Stair Lift Review

Stair lifts are devices that are made to carry people who suffer from arthritis, are older, or are otherwise mobility challenged use the stairs. Using either a set of batteries, or by plugging directly into the wall, these units are responsible for restoring independence and opening houses back up.

They are often called stair chairs because generally a chair is attached to the stairs via an aluminium track. There are some models called perch lifts however, that utilize a small platform instead. A perch lift is usually used for someone who has trouble sitting down because of knee or back problems. One popular manufacturer of stair lifts is Acorn, who makes several models including a perch lift.

Acorn is a family owned company that operates worldwide. Their US headquarter is in Orlando, Florida, and they employ over 800employees worldwide. Acorn opened their doors in 1992 and began buying and selling new and reconditioned stair lifts.

They quickly realized, due to high demand, that they would not be able to continue purchasing stair lifts and reselling them, and maintain their commitment to their customers, so they began manufacturing their own. Over the years Acorn pioneered the battery stair lift, and has continuously brought innovation and remarkable engineering to the field. They currently manufacture more than 30,000 units a year. Acorn has a very strong presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, South America, Europe, and Australia. Their quality and professional workmanship has made them into the powerhouse they are today, and they are the largest independent straight stair lift manufacturer in the world.

One of their stair lifts that has a very distinctive design is the Acorn 140. It allows the rider to stand on the footrest and travel up and down the stairs. For those suffering from joint problems, this is often much less painful and much more practical than a traditional stair lift. It has a set of handlebars attached to the unit that can be held onto for added support, as well as an additional adjustable handle bar. It also includes a pad to lean against, so it is not necessary to stand straight up, and instead the rider can put their weight on the pad.

This perch lift can support up to 294 ponds. It is battery powered, featuring a constantly recharging battery, that ensures that even if the power goes out, you will be able to use your stair lift. The unit includes 15.2 foot of track, which will accommodate most staircases. The foot rest folds and helps the Acorn Perch Lift retain its low profile. The controls for the Acorn 140 are designed to be very simple and straightforward to use.

Acorn produces several stair lifts and one of their other popular models is the Acorn Super Glide. All of their models are designed to be easy to use, require very little maintenance, and to be as safe as possible. They all utilize the best materials available, utilize special safety sensors to ensure that the device is not used unsafely, and are designed to take up as little space as possible.

About the author:
For more information on stair lifts, wheelchair lifts, lift chairs, and other types of home medical equipment visit http://www.usmedicalsupplies.com

Brad Brubaker

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Where to Find Acorn Stairlifts

(Acorn Stair Lift)

The first thing that you want to know is why Acorn stairlifts are so great, why everyone is talking about them, and why you should get Acorn stairlifts for yourself as opposed to any other kind. There are truly many reasons actually as to why Acorn stairlifts are so great, and one of the most primary reasons is because Acorn stairlifts are so reliable.

After all, safety is key in regards to a device such as this, and so you absolutely want to make sure that you find a stairlift device that is reliable and of the highest quality, not only so that it will last you for a long time, but more importantly, so that you will be as safe as possible during this time.

Where to go to Find Acorn Stairlifts

There are many different companies and businesses that offer this type of stairlift, and so all you really need to do is to understand which ones are worthy, and which ones you should stay away from. One of the best places that you can go to is directly to the Acorn website, as you will then be buying directly from the manufacturer and thus you will not only be getting the best deal possible but you will know that the products are all reliable.

You can look at their website at AcornStairlifts.com, and they believe that there is a truly baffling amount of choice out there on the market today in regards to stairlifts, and they thus understand how frustrating and difficult it can be for one to determine where to buy from. They say that when you are choosing a piece of equipment such as this, you need to ensure that you are making like-for-like comparisons.

They say to think carefully before buying this type of product, especially if you are doing so over the Internet, and your first real opportunity to clearly see the features, engineering, and limitations of your new stairlift are then when it arrives on your doorstep, and this can be negative because you may realize only after it has arrived that you do not like it or that it was not what you were expecting.

Therefore, remember to take your time and to have patience throughout this entire process, so that you can end up making the best decision and so that you can thus be completely satisfied in the end.

Are you in the market for a stairlift? Are you researching different types of stairlifts? Then you must visit this site. StairLifts.SpeckSpot.com contents important information which could save you hundreds of does when buying a stairlift. Visit the site to learn more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeremy_Thompson

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Stannah Stair Lifts - The Most Stylish On The Market

Stannah stair lifts are the world's most popular with over a quarter of million homes having one. The functionality and safety features are what have made the Stannah the most popular of home stair lifts. But they are also the most stylish.

Stannah is a UK stair lift manufacturer that now exports to over 40 countries. The company has a wide network of dealers who will advise, sell and carry out installation. The price of a chair lift is high and Stannah tend to be more expensive than most, so how can the company justify the price? But when looking at stair lifts you shouldn't just look at price; sure, other makes are cheaper buy you won't be getting everything you would if you bought a Stannah. They come with far more features than most, helping to give the customer a more comfortable and safer ride. The company also makes stylish machines so let's review them in terms of its style.

Stair lifts have been on the market for quite some time and they serve their purpose. However, many people who want one are also looking for something that is aesthetically pleasing and will complement rather than down-grade the look of a staircase. The ' baby boomer' generation is more design-conscious than their parents were and want to buy products that not only work well but look contemporary and stylish.

Most companies were oblivious to this but Stannah realized the need for change. The company worked with the internationally renowned design consultancy, SeymourPowell, on a new line of machines. The result was the introduction of the Stannah Solus and Stannah Sofia stair lift. These new models have the look of other household products instead of the industrial machine look of most other brands.

The two new stair lifts from Stannah are available in both straight and curved configurations. The two models were designed to appeal to two different tastes.

The Solus stair lift from Stannah is modern, stylish with a more minimalist look. The seat is shorter and more discreet with a cut-out to give a greater feeling of light and space. Its look is urban modernity with its chic leather upholstery that comes in a neutral color range including cocoa, oyster and slate. For those who don't like leather there is a soft woven fabric option in fawn and flame.

The Sofia stair lift from Stannah has a more classic look. The seat is comfortable and supportive and is generously upholstered with a soft fabric seat. New colors have been introduced to appeal to a wider audience while still being attractive to consumers with more traditional tastes. Colors include soft woven, woolen fabric in flame, conifer, melon and fawn or modern new vinyl in sand or lavender.

The company also reviewed the track. The new Stannah stair lift still uses a rack and pinion system to pull the chair (the industry norm) but it employs a unique double rail. This double rail track really complements the modern look of the Solus. By the way, not only does this innovative rail look stunning, it actually takes up less space; its mounted around 5" off the wall as compared to 7-8" of the Bruno curved stair lift.

Since their launch, the Solus from Stannah has received the Gold Trophy of Design at the Batimat Exhibition in Paris - this is a prestigious construction industry exhibition. Stannah appreciates that it makes products that help those with mobility problems but it hasn't forgotten that its customers also appreciate style and elegance like everyone else.

Follow the links for the Stannah stair lift and the Acorn stair lift as well as stair lift reviews of other leading brands.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_O'Brien

acorn stair lift

Ameriglide Vs Acorn Stair Lift

(acorn stair lift)

Ameriglide stair lifts - also known as Summit stair lifts (they are the same company) - are cheaper than Acorn stair lifts. Ameriglide claim that, although it offers a cheap machine its product is as good as that of the Acorn. But does a comparison between the Ameriglide and Acorn stair lift prove this claim?

First off, the Ameriglide is cheaper than that of the Acorn Superglide machine. If the customer's sole consideration is a low cost stair lift then the Ameriglide is the first choice. But the price of a chair lift is determined by the quality and features that come with it.

What follows is a review and comparison of the Ameriglide and the Acorn on a component by component basis.

DC Battery or AC Power?

When chair lifts were first manufactured they were mains powered but today Acorn, and most other leading brands, are powered by a 24 volt battery pack. However, Ameriglide/Summit chair lifts are still mains powered. So, what's the issue with using mains power? Well, batteries present no risk of electric shock. Also, many stair lift can be self-installed but many states will only allow a qualified electrician to install a main powered appliance.

A mains powered unit like Ameriglide has a trailing cable. The cable is constantly reeled in and out as the chair travels up and down the stairs. This will produce wear and tear - over a relatively short period - and will require maintenance and/or replacement of the cable. In some situations the cable can fail when the lift is in use leaving the user stranded mid way up or down the stairs.

DC batteries have proved so popular because of the smoother ride, especially when starting or stopping. The Acorn machine gives a very smooth ride. DC battery operated units like the Acorn are also quieter than those that are mains powered.

Power outages also make batteries a clear winner. You can continue to use the Acorn stair lift during these outages. Ameriglide, do suggest a solution to this problem - go out and buy a universal power supply - which contains a stair lift battery.

A final note about batteries; all batteries used in new stair lifts like the Acorn can be easily purchased from a local hardware store. The cost of replacing them is very cheap too - the company charge around only $15.00 for each battery.

The drive systems.

Ameriglide use a cable system. This is considered old technology by just about every other manufacturer. Acorn, like nearly all modern designs, use a rack and pinion system. The problem with cable systems is that the track is very wide and trough shaped - which creates a problematic dirt-trap. It's claimed that rack and pinion tracks need regular cleaning and lubrication to prevent damage. However, with Acorn machines this is not so; the system is maintenance free.

Safety controls and devices.

The easiest type of control for anybody to use is the joystick, which is why the Acorn chair is fitted with one on the arm rest. The control used on the Ameriglide is a rocker switch, which is not as easy to use, especially by those with severe arthritis. The remote controls supplied with the Acorn are modern, wireless infra-red devices, rather than old-fashioned, hard-wired controls that must be fixed to the wall as is the case with Ameriglide.

The Acorn has an electro-magnetic braking system with a self-locking gearbox. The self-locking gearbox alone, as installed in Ameriglide is not really a braking system.

The Acorn has sensors mounted on each side of the footrest and on the carriage itself to stop it immediately if any obstacle gets in the way. The Ameriglide is fitted with a sensor only on the footrest, so an obstacle found on the track will not stop the stair lift.

There are other items found on the Acorn machine that are superior or not even present on the Ameriglide version.

In conclusion, there's nothing wrong with the Ameriglide. It's cheap and does its job and there are many satisfied customers who use it everyday. In fact, many consumer reviews like its no-frills functionality and cheap price. But there's no doubt that the Acorn stair lift is a superior product. The price of the Acorn machine may be higher than the Ameriglide, but you get what you pay for.

Follow the links for the Acorn stair lift and the Stannah stair lift and stair lift ratings.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_O'Brien

acorn stair lift

An Overview Of Bruno Stair Lifts

Michael R. Bruno and his wife Beverly founded Bruno Stairlifts over 20 years ago. The company is now one of America's leading manufacturers of mobility aids. Today, Bruno manufactures over 50 different products, ranging from stair chair lifts, vehicle lifts and turning automotive seating. The company makes straight and curved stair lifts for indoor and outdoor use.

The company has been awarded the ISO-9001 certification, which means that Bruno Stair Lifts are recognized for product excellence worldwide. Indeed, the company occupies the high-end of stair lifts. Most companies don't have the technical expertise to produce outdoor stair lifts or curved stair lifts; Bruno and some others like Stannah Stair Lifts do.

All stairlifts are sold, installed and serviced by Bruno's factory trained network of dealers. Bruno stair lifts come with a 2 year warranty on all parts and a 5 year warranty on the gear box, motor and rail system, which is as good as any warranty in the industry.

Bruno makes 3 home stair lifts; the Electra-Ride LT, the Electra-Ride II and the Electra-Ride Elite. It also makes an outdoor model called the Outdoor Electra-Ride Elite and is the first in the industry that can carry a pay load of 400 lbs.

All of the straight stair lifts made by Bruno can operate up to a maximum incline of 45 degrees and to a minimum stair case width of 32". Other companies can offer better specifications; the Stannah 120 stair lift can handle an incline of 52 degrees and the Acorn Superglide Perch stair lift can be fitted on narrower stairs. However, most domestic staircases can be fitted with a Bruno stair lift.

Bruno also makes a curved stair lift called the Electra-Ride III Curved Rail. Again what's impressive about this stair lift is that it can carry up to 350 lbs. The Stannah curved stair lift carries less than 300 lbs.

All of Bruno's stair lifts are powered by DC 24 volt rechargeable batteries. Just about all modern stair lifts now use batteries rather than mains power. There are many advantages to using batteries; they're safe with no possibility of electrocution; they provide smoother starts and stops; and you can still use the stair lift during power outages. What is particularly impressive about Bruno stair chair lifts is the length of their battery life. The company claims that the battery will last an amazing 3-4 days or 15 trips up and down the stairs. The battery itself is built to last 3-5 years and replacements can easily be bought from your local hardware store.

Bruno's products have been awarded accreditations and awards, including the Today's Caregiver Magazine's "Caregiver Friendly" product award and the Da Vinci new product award for a lift-up power mobility seat.

So, are Bruno stair lifts the best on the market? Well, we have to say that there stair lifts on the market that offer more features as standard and look more stylish; the Stannah Solus stair lift being one. Also, other manufacturers supply stair lifts at a lower price; the Ameriglide stair lift being an example. However, in the price range of the Bruno stair lift, it probably does offer the best product. You can get more features from other brands but you pay more, or you pay less for another brand stair lift but you'll get fewer features than the Bruno.

Following the links for the Bruno stair lift and the Stannah stair lift and read stair lift reviews.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_O'Brien

What Is The Best Handicap Stair Lift? (Acorn Stair Lift)

(Acorn Stair Lift)

If you're handicapped a stair lift can really give you back your independence. But the cost of a handicap stair lift is expensive so before you part with your money you should make sure you buy the best stair lift for you. Here's a quick review of stair lifts for the disabled.

There are two basic types of stair lift; the straight stair lift and the curved stair lift. These further divide into electric AC mains stair lifts and DC battery operated stair lifts. First off, do you require a curved stair lift? The price of a curved stair lift is many times more expensive than a straight stair lift. And most stair lift manufacturers only make straight stair lifts. These manufacturers will tell you that you can use two straight stair lifts if you have a middle landing, however you should bear in mind that you will have to get on and off the stair chair lift twice; this may not be so easy, depending on your handicap, especially when changing stair lifts on a small interim landing.

Until recently just about all stair lifts for the disabled were powered from mains electricity. This had some problems: the units were noisy: they had a trailing cable, which could be easily tripped over; the ride action was somewhat 'juddery'; and you couldn't use it when there was a power failure. Most new handicap stair lifts are battery powered. You get many advantages with a battery stair lift: quiet ride; smooth ride; no mains wires and easy to install; and you can use it when there is a power outage.

However, there are some advantages to main power. With an electric stair lift you can use it as much as you like; battery operated stair lifts need to be recharged. So, if you think you might use the handicap stair lift more than 20 times a day, then you could consider an electric stair lift.

The following manufacturers make handicap stair lifts for straight stairways only.

The Acorn Superglide 120 stair lift is a very good battery powered unit. You get many features as standard; safety sensors to stop the chair when it encounters an obstacle, fold up seat and flip up foot rest, swivel seat, and a directional paddle switches that are operated by the lightest touch and can be used easily by those even with limited dexterity. You also get a choice of safety belts; inertial reel lap harness comes as standard - you have to pay more for a fixed 3-point shoulder harness.

Finally, Acorn also manufactures the Superglide Perch Stair Lift. This perch stair lift is especially useful for those who have only limited movement in their knees - it's also ideal for stairways that are narrower than normal.

Summit stair lifts are designed to be cheap and easily installed. The company makes electric stair lifts and not battery. You get many of the features that come with the Acorn; however the controls on the Summit stair lift are not ideal for the disabled. Also, you don't get a safety belt. If your disability is such that you have limited use in your hands or you need to be secured with a safety belt, then you really should consider the Acorn; the price of its disable stair lift is more than that of the Summit stair lift but you do get a lot more features that are better for the handicapped.

If you need a curved stair lift then you're probably best is considering either a Bruno stair lift or Stannah stair lift - both of these companies also make excellent straight stair lifts.

All Bruno stair lifts are battery powered. The company makes the Bruno Electra-Ride III Curved Rail stair lift. You get a retractable safety belt; optional wrap-around parking so the chair doesn't occupy too much space on the landing; and it can carry up to 350 lbs. All in all, the Bruno is an excellent stair lift for the disabled.

Stannah is a UK stair lift manufacturer who supply handicap stair lifts all over the world. The Stannah 260 stair lift is its curved stair lift. This stair lift is ideal for the disabled. The arms come with integrated controls that operate at the lightest touch - you can also get a joystick option if you prefer. You get a manually operate swivel seat as standard but there's also a powered swivel option. The stair lift comes with 9 sensitive safety edges to detect any obstacle and stop the chair. Finally, the chair travels along a unique dual track that is very elegant in design.

The Stannah stair lift is a little more expensive that the Bruno handicap stair lift but it is worth paying that little bit extra.

The above four stair lifts all work well for the disabled. For a straight stair lift, the Acorn Superglide stair lift is your best option. For a curved stair lift, the Stannah stair lift is my recommendation. Whichever model of handicap stair lift you choose make sure it has the features you need.

Following the links for a handicap stair lift, Stannah stair lift and stair lift reviews.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_O'Brien

Acorn Stair Lift

Acorn Stair Lift:Stair Lift Reviews

(Acorn Stair Lift)

Before you buy a home stair lift it is essential that you first review the stair lifts on the market. You'll soon find that stair lift prices vary a great deal, but be wary of using a stair lift price as the main yardstick in choosing one; a cheap stair lift can be a good deal for the customer or it can be an expensive mistake.

The home stair lift market has grown significantly in the past few years. Many people with mobility problems are finding out that installing a handicap stair lift is cheaper than they thought and is certainly cheaper than the expense of moving house or hiring home help, not to mention the psychological and emotional benefits of reclaiming the upstairs of one's home. What follows is some advice on buying a stair lift and stair lift reviews of the most popular models.

But choosing the best stair lift for one's home can be problematic with so many stair chair lifts on offer. You need to be careful and to take your time when choosing a home stair lift. You should always seek professional advice before you buy a stair lift. Don't just talk to stair lift suppliers; talk to your community occupational therapist or friends who might already have a handicap stair lift in their home.

You should also look at as many makes of stair lifts and talk to at least 3 different dealerships. Talking to a dealer is important; don't buy from a dealer on the internet if they don't also have a phone number - if you have any problems later, chances are you won't get any answers back by email. If you can, go in person to a stair lift showroom and try out the chairs yourself. Try to go with a relative of friend.

There is a growing, and worrying, trend for home stair lifts to be sold without any installation. The buyer is told that self-installation is easy and can be done by anyone with basic DIY skills. However, AMEA (Accessibility Equipment Manufacturer’s Association) and the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) strongly advise against self-installation of a home stair lift. A reputable stair lift supplier will insist on doing the installation.

Also, remember to ask about warranty and after sales service. A reputable dealer will offer both; look for a dealership that offers 24/7 telephone support so that you'll get instant help when you need it.

Here are some brief stair lift reviews of some leading makes.

The Summit Stair Lift

This is a low cost home stair lift. The company only makes straight stair lifts. The Summit chair lift is made to be a no-frills but reliable handicap stair lift. It uses technology that is now considered old-fashioned by most leading stair lift manufacturers; it uses a cable system rather than rack and pinion to drag the chair along the track, and the Summit stair lift is mains powered rather than battery powered. Other manufacturers switched to rack and pinion battery powered stair lifts because they give a smoother ride. You do get basic safety systems with the Summit stair lift such as a sensor on the footrest to detect obstacles, a seat belt and cable tensioning. Won't you won't get the more sophisticated safety features offered by other manufacturers. All in all, the Summit stair lift is for those on a small budget.

The Acorn Stair Lift

Acorn makes only straight stair lifts. Currently you can buy the Acorn Superglide stair lift. This home stair lift uses a modern rack and pinion drive system and is powered by DC 24 volt rechargeable batteries. The home stair lift also comes with two wireless remote controls with send/call features. You get safety sensors on both the footrest and carriage that will immediately stop the chair should any obstacle be encountered on the stairs or track. What sets Acorn apart is that they make a perch stair lift, which is ideal for those who have trouble bending the knees or for staircases that are narrower than normal.

The Stannah Stair Lift

This is a UK stair lift manufacturer that now exports to over 40 countries. Quite simply, Stannah stair lifts are the best on the market. Stannah make both straight and curved stair lifts. The Stannah 120 stair lift has two models; the Solus (a very contemporary design) and the Sofia (for those who prefer a more traditional look). With a Stannah home stair lift you get many features as standard but the company also offers optional features that other manufacturers don't. Stannah stair lifts aren't the cheapest on the market, but it makes the best handicap stair lifts.

There's no doubting the benefits of installing a home stair lift. But choosing a home stair lift that best suits your needs takes patience and thought. Don't ever be rushed into buying a handicap stair lift - reputable dealers will never put you under pressure to buy.

Following the links for home stair lifts from brands like the Stannah Stair Lift as well as other handicap stair lift manufacturers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_O'Brien

Acorn Stair Lift

Acorn Stair Lifts

(Acorn Stair Lift)

Stair lifts are devices that are made to carry people who suffer from arthritis, are older, or are otherwise mobility challenged use the stairs. Using either a set of batteries, or by plugging directly into the wall, these units are responsible for restoring independence and opening houses back up. They are often called stair chairs because generally a chair is attached to the stairs via an aluminum track. There are some models called perch lifts however, that utilize a small platform instead. A perch lift is usually used for someone who has trouble sitting down because of knee or back problems. One popular manufacturer of stair lifts is Acorn, who makes several models including a perch lift.

Acorn is a family owned company that operates worldwide. Their US headquarter is in Orlando, Florida, and they employ over 800 employees worldwide. Acorn opened their doors in 1992 and began buying and selling new and reconditioned stair lifts. They quickly realized, due to high demand, that they would not be able to continue purchasing stair lifts and reselling them, and maintain their commitment to their customers, so they began manufacturing their own. Over the years Acorn pioneered the battery stair lift, and has continuously brought innovation and remarkable engineering to the field. They currently manufacture more than 30,000 units a year. Acorn has a very strong presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, South America, Europe, and Australia. Their quality and professional workmanship has made them into the powerhouse they are today, and they are the largest independent straight stair lift manufacturer in the world.

One of their stair lifts that has a very distinctive design is the Acorn 140. It allows the rider to stand on the foot rest and travel up and down the stairs. For those suffering from joint problems, this is often much less painful and much more practical than a traditional stair lift. It has a set of handle bars attached to the unit that can be held onto for added support, as well as an additional adjustable handle bar. It also includes a pad to lean against, so it is not necessary to stand straight up, and instead the rider can put their weight on the pad.

This perch lift can support up to 294 ponds. It is battery powered, featuring a constantly recharging battery, that ensures that even if the power goes out, you will be able to use your stair lift. The unit includes 15.2 foot of track, which will accommodate most stair cases. The foot rest folds and helps the Acorn Perch Lift retain its low profile. The controls for the Acorn 140 are designed to be very simple and straight forward to use.

Acorn produces several stair lifts and one of their other popular models is the Acorn SuperGlide. All of their models are designed to be easy to use, require very little maintenance, and to be as safe as possible. They all utilize the best materials available, utilize special safety sensors to ensure that the device is not used unsafely, and are designed to take up as little space as possible.

Brad Brubaker is an experienced technical writer. For some great deals on used stair lifts or to check out the innovative Acorn 140 visit http://www.a1-medical-supplies.net.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brad_Brubaker

Acorn Stair Lift

AmeriGlide Vs Acorn Stair Lift

(Acorn Stair Lift)

Stair lifts are used by people who have difficulty using the stairs. A chair or small platform is used to carry a person up and down the stairs. There are several different manufacturers of stair lifts. AmeriGlide is one of the most well known and popular brands and is manufactured in the United States. A European company, Acorn Stair Lifts, also manufactures lifts and is very popular overseas.

The types of stair lifts offered by the company are very similar, but AmeriGlide has many more stair lifts to choose from. AmeriGlide offers both battery and direct current stair lifts. Acorn only offers battery powered stair lifts.

A battery powered stair lift plugs directly into the wall, but the stair lift itself is powered by a battery. These types of stair lifts are great if you live in an area with frequent power disruptions because you are never without power. In addition to offereing battery powered lifts, AmeriGlide also offers AC models, which get their power directly from a wall and plug into a normal household outlet. An AC model is less expensive than battery powered lift, but will not function if the power goes out. If you have a battery powered lift, you will need to periodically replace the batteries as well, but are usually not very expensive.

While there are many different models of lifts offered by AmeriGlide, Acorn really only offers one model. The model offered by Acorn is the Superglide 120 and can be outfitted for indoor/outdoor use, supports around 300 pounds, and can also be outfitted with a small platform instead of a chair. The different types of stair lifts offered by AmeriGlide are much more comprehensive. They offer several different models for both indoor use and outdoor use. Most of their models support around 300 pounds, but AmeriGlide also offers a heavy duty lift that can support up to 500 pounds and has a wider reinforced seat.

Both AmeriGlide lifts and those made by Acorn offer many safety features. They both offer footrest sensors that detect objects in the path of the lift and are made out of only the finest materials. AmeriGlide stair lifts utilize high-test aircraft cable that has a 4,200 pound breaking point. Lifts by AmeriGlide have also been tested for over 30,000 cycles (about 16 years of use) and have shown no abnormal wear. Acorn lifts are also very dependable and reliable. The installation of both of these stair lifts is very straightforward and can typically be done in a few hours.

Both of the warranties that cover the lifts manufactured by AmeriGlide and Acorn are very comprehensive, but it can often be problematic to get an Acorn stair lift serviced. This is because it is manufactured in a foreign country and imported to the US. Even just a day can be too much if you depend on your stair lift, and frequently service issues take much longer to resolve with Acorn. In this regard AmeriGlide is far superior. In most cases you will probably never need to activate your warranty, but it is nice to know that it is there if you need it.

The lifts manufactured by AmeriGlide and Acorn are both of very high quality. They are very safe and very reliable, but you can frequently get a better deal on an AmeriGlide lift. This is in large part due to the fact that they are manufactured in the USA and do not have the high overhead that a foreign manufacturer does.

Brad Brubaker is an experienced technical writer with experience in the home medical supply industry. To learn more about the AmeriGlide DC Powered Stair Lift or to learn about the Acorn SuperGlide visit or call the folks at US Medical Supplies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brad_Brubaker

Acorn Stair Lift

Acorn Stair Lift:Stair Chair Lift Ratings

(Acorn Stair Lift)

Stair chair lifts are giving people back their mobility and their home. But deciding on what is the best stair lift for your needs isn't that easy. Not all residential models offer the same features and the price variation between brands can be enormous. What follows are stairlift ratings of the most popular brands.

Summit Stair Lift

The Summit stair lift is for those on a limited budget. It has been designed to offer basic functionality that is reliable. The Summit is still powered by AC mains electricity. Just about every manufacturer uses DC 24 volt rechargeable batteries. Battery powered stair chair lifts are better because they offer smoother starts and stops, are easy to install as there's no wiring, are safer than mains and the lift can still be operated during power outages. The Summit also uses an outmoded cable system to pull the carriage along the track. The cable used in them by Summit is aircraft cable and is rated at 4,200 lbs, so there is no danger of breakage.

The Summit does come with basic safety control. The footrest has a sensor that will immediately stop the chair should it encounter any object on the stairs. You also get a seatbelt. What you won't get with a Summit stair lift are sensors on the actual carriage itself, so an object on the track will not stop the chair. The control panels are not wireless either, they are wall mounted.

The Summit chair lift is a product that will transport the user up and down the stairs - though not in any great style. It is a workhorse and has been proven to be reliable with surprising little maintenance even though it employs old technology.

Rating: 3 out of 5

Acorn Stair Lift

Acorn stair lifts, like Summit, can only be used on a straight staircase. Unlike a Summit lift, the Acorn is a more sophisticated machine. The Acorn Superglide stair lift is a battery powered rack and pinion system. This is the industry norm. The rechargeable battery pack gives a smooth start and stop and the rack and pinion drive ensures a smooth ride overall. The Acorn comes with two wireless remote controls with send/call functionality. There is also a mechanical joystick to control the stair chair lift - the toggle overrides the remote controls.

You can also buy the Acorn Superglide outdoor stair lift. Interestingly, Acorn also makes a perch stair lift for those who find sitting uncomfortable or impossible. The Acorn Perch can also be used on narrower staircases. The Superglide Perch by Acorn comes with a 'wander lead' control which can be positioned to allow maximum comfort and ease of operation.

The Acorn stair lift would suit the requirements of the majority and is an excellent one.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Bruno Stair Lift

Few manufacturers make curved stair lifts. This is because they lack the expertise. Bruno is a company that does have this expertise. Bruno is ISO-9001 certified, which is the most stringent and widely recognized quality standards in the world.

Bruno makes not just one straight stairlift but four; 3 home stair and 1 outdoor lift. Each home from Bruno offers a heap of features that come as standard. The Electra-Ride Elite is its top model. It comes with 5 surfaces fitted with safety sensors, on both the footrest and carriage. It has an overspeed safety brake, retractable seat belts, and wireless remote controls and it can carry up to 400lbs. The seat height can be adjusted from 19" to 24 1/2" and the footrest can be adjusted too to give maximum comfort. The rail protrudes 5" from the skirting - the industry norm is about 8".

The Bruno Electra-Ride III Curved Rail can be installed on just about any staircase, no matter how much it curves. It can carry up to 350 lbs and an optional wrap-around "park" position is designed to save room and make using it that much easier.

The Bruno stair lift is one of the best on the market and remains very popular.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Stannah Stair Lift

Stannah is a UK stair lift manufacturer that now ships to over 40 countries. In my opinion this is the best stair lift you can buy. They recently released the Stannah 120 with Solia and Solus models. The stair chair lifts were designed in partnership with one of Europe's leading design agencies and it shows. The Solus has a real contemporary look while the Solia appeals to the more traditional user. Not only do these lifts look good but they are probably the most technically advanced on the market. They can be used on stairs with an inclination of 52 degrees - just about everyone else in the industry can only manage 45 degrees. Also, they have developed a unique and innovative twin rack system for the track. Not only does it look stylish but it only protrudes the skirting by 3.7" making a Stannah ideal for steep or narrow staircases.

The other features that come with it can match and out do anything else on the market. For instance, the Stannah chair lift can be supplied with a motorized swivel chair - fantastic for those will severe mobility problems. No other manufacturer offers this.

The Stannah stair chair lift is the Rolls Royce of the industry.

Rating: I'd like to give it 5 out of 5 but nothing is perfect, so I'll settle for 4.99 out of 5.

Following the links for stair chair lifts from brands like the Stannah Stair Lift, the Ameriglide Stair Lift and others.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_O'Brien

Acorn Stair Lift

Acorn Stair Lifts

(Acorn Stair Lift)

A stair lift is a device that can help people who are either disabled or elderly to go up and down the stairs in their own homes. There are plenty of different companies who now build stair lifts including Acorn Stair Lifts and each model that they produce will be able to cater to a person’s specific needs and requirements. Most types of stair lifts you see today have been specifically designed for use within the home, but there are some which a person can use for outdoors as well.

Certainly by having some form of stair lift in their home a disabled or elderly person will be able to maintain some sort of independence in their life. But each one of the stair lifts produced by either Acorn or other manufacturers of these devices will allow that person to travel safely and easily up and down the stairs in their home.

Acorn Stair Lifts since their formation have manufactured and installed many hundreds of thousands of stair lifts into people’s homes around the globe. By installing these within a person’s home Acorn have been able to ensure that these people can continue to live in the comfort of their own homes until such time as they feel that they are unable to.

Certainly as we get older and if you suffer from any form of disability (no matter how minor) it can be extremely difficult for you to get up and down stairs comfortably and safely. For many as we grow older or suffer from some kind of disability mobility is a problem and climbing up and down stairs can be a very big challenge as well as a big risk involved. Therefore these people will often turn to having a stair lift installed to help reduce the difficulties that they face of gaining access to the upper levels of their home.

All the Acorn Stair Lifts available today to purchase are powered by batteries and so there are no messy cables to worry about as everything is contained within a box that is built onto the chair. Plus many people who have already had one of these stair lifts installed in their homes have found the ride to be extremely smooth especially when the device is stopping and starting. Plus should there be a power cut in your home at any stage then you will know that your stair lift is going to still be able to get you up and down the stairs in your home.

Ricky runs a stair lift information site. Visit his website today for more information on straight stair lift and handicap stair lift.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ricky_Lim

Acorn Stair Lift

Acorn Stair Lift : Acorn Lifts

If you have a straight stairway, then a stair lift is an affordable and very popular alternative to a personal elevator. The popularity of do-it-yourself stair lifts has grown tremendously over the past fifteen years and one company, Acorn Stair Lifts, has been a well known name in the industry for many years.

A stair lift is a type of device that is used to allow a person to move safely up and down the stairs. There are two main types of stair lifts. The stair chair is the most common type of lift, which carries a person up and down the stairs in a chair. A perch lift is used much less frequently and uses a small platform to transport a standing individual up and down the stairs. Since the individual must remain standing as they are carried up or down the stairs, a perch lift is generally only used by those who, due to medical reasons, can not use a traditional stair chair, but perch lifts are sometimes also used on narrow staircases.

Acorn Stair Lifts was established in 1992 and began to buy new and used stair lifts and resell them. They refurbished the used staircase lifts at their facility in the United Kingdom, but quickly realized that they would not be able to meet demand and ensure that they customers received quality lifts without manufacturing their own lifts.

One of the deciding factors that contributed to Acorn manufacturing their own lifts, was the many designs and poorly made lifts they came across when they were purchasing them from other companies. In order to guarantee the safety and quality of the products they were selling, they realized that they would need to begin manufacturing their own lifts.

Creating a lift that could be easily and quickly be installed was one of the chief concerns of the founders of Acorn. They wanted to be able to provide a very safe, reliable, and dependable lift that could be installed by the homeowner without requiring in-depth knowledge of construction.

In addition to striving to provide an easy to install lift, the designers and founders of Acorn also wanted to create a lift that was able to work even if the power went out. They implemented some of the first battery powered stair lifts on the market, which in addition to providing functionality when the power went out, also were found to provide a smoother and safer operation.

Acorn is headquartered out of Yorkshire, New England, which is also where their main manufacturing facility is located. They have a distribution hub located in Orlando, Florida, and one also located in Ontario, Canada. They manufacture more than 30,000 lifts every year and are the largest supplier of lifts in the United Kingdom.

Acorn is one of the largest suppliers of lifts overseas and they are gaining popularity in the states. In addition to being one of the few companies to offer a perch lift, they also offer an outdoor lift that is resistant to the elements.

Brad Brubaker is a technical writer. Learn more about Acorn Stair Lifts, like the Acorn perch lift, by visiting USMedicalSupplies.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brad_Brubaker


Acorn Stair Lift

Acorn Stair Lift - How Does It Rate?

(Acorn Stair Lift)

The Acorn Superglide 120 is the number one selling stair lift on the market. But is the number of home stair lifts sold by the company due to hype and slick marketing, or does Acorn sell in large numbers because it's the best?

Safety should be the buyer's first concern when looking for a stair chair lift. It should be a mobility aid and not a health and safety hazard. Also, you need to determine what features it should have to best serve your requirements. The price of the it should be your last concern.

Acorn models come fitted with many safety features as standard. Like most top rated stair lifts, the Acorn Superglide is powered by DC 24 volt rechargeable batteries. This ensures that you're entirely safe from electrocution. Pressure sensitive sensors are fitted to 5 surfaces on the chair; on the footrest and carriage. This ensures that the chair will immediately stop should any obstacle be encountered.

The swivel seat is standard and will only operate when the seat is in the correct locked position.

As standard, an inertia lap belt is supplied, but there is the option of fitting a static, 3-point fixed-over shoulder harness.

Most importantly, electronic and mechanical breaking systems are fitted as standard to prevent any uncontrolled descent of the chair.

One shouldn't assume that all companies provide the above safety features. The Summit stair lift, which is cheaper than the Acorn Superglide, only comes with sensors on the footrest - there is nothing to detect any obstacle on the rail itself. Also, the Summit does not feature a breaking system anywhere as near sophisticated as the Acorn machine.

The Acorn also comes with mechanical joystick and two wireless remote controls. The chair is of a slim line design and can be folded to free up space on the stairs. You can also get outdoor versions and you can get an Acorn Superglide Perch stair lift, which is great for those who have trouble in bending knees.

Few other manufacturers offer so many features as standard and at the same cost of an Acorn machine.

Well, it all sounds too good to be true, but does the Acorn stair lift have any negative points?

In fact, it does. Acorn only makes a straight stair lift. Therefore, you won't be able to use this company's product if your stairs are curved, have middle landing, half turns etc. Other manufacturers like Bruno and Stannah make curved stair lifts. In order for a manufacturer to claim to make the best machines, it really should be making curved models. Curved machines require more advanced manufacturing techniques and one would have to ask if Acorn lacks these.

Also, the Acorn website touts that the Superglide is very easy to install. The company says that if you can put up a set of shelves you can install an Acorn stair lift. The Accessibility Equipment Manufacturer's Association strongly recommends against self-installation for many safety reasons as well as local law violations and lack of warranty. Both Stannah and Bruno advise against self-installation and state that installation of any kind should only be carried out by a qualified technician.

One can't help thinking that Acorn promotes self installation because it helps boost sales.

The Superglide is one of the best stair chair lifts for straight stair cases. Most consumer reviews seem to back this up. But, if you do buy an Acorn stair lift, do have it professionally installed. If the dealer tells you that there isn't any need and it will only add to cost, find another dealer who will install it for you.

Follow the links for the Acorn stair lift and the Bruno stair lift and other stair chair lifts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_O'Brien

Acorn Stair Lift

Acorn Stair Lifts - A Brief History

Stair chairs have become increasingly popular over the last few years. This is in part because of reductions in manufacturing costs that have been passed down to the consumer. A stair chair, or stair lift, is a device that is used to allow people to easily traverse a set of stairs. It consists of a chair or small platform that travels up and down the stairs via a track that is secured to the stairs or walls. There several companies that sell stair chairs, and one of the more popular companies is Acorn Stair Lifts.

Acorn Stair Lifts is an international company that employs over 800 people worldwide. Established in 1992, Acorn began by buying new and used stair chairs and reselling them. They completely refurbished the used ones at their facility in the UK, but were quickly overwhelmed by the demand for their products. In order to meet demand, and to guarantee that the customer was receiving a quality product, they began manufacturing their own stair chairs, and have not looked back since.

While Acorn Stair Lifts had been refurbishing other company's stair chairs, they had become alarmed by the number of design flaws in these products. By manufacturing their own, they were able to guarantee high levels of safety and reliability. Their goal was to provide a stair lift that was easy to install, simple to use, and required little maintenance. The result was the Acorn SuperGlide Stair chair, which continues to be one of their most well known products.

Until Acorn began manufacturing stair chairs, they had traditionally been powered by AC current. The engineers at Acorn realized that there were many advantages associated with DC, battery, power. DC power many advantages include higher safety, smooth operation, and the ability to still operate during power disruptions. Acorn pioneered this technology, and currently almost all stair chair manufacturers now offer a DC powered stair lift.

Acorn Stair Lift's main headquarters and manufacturing hub is located in Yorkshire, New England. They have facilities all over the world, including distribution centers in Orlando, Florida and Ontario, Canada. With over 30,000 stair chairs manufactured each year, they are the biggest manufacturer in the United Kingdom. They have dealers all over the world and supply stair lifts to customers in over 70 different countries across the globe. Their dealers are located in places like Argentina, Belgium, Japan, France, Ireland, Austria, Africa, and Portugal, and it is safe to say that they are the most diverse stair lift manufacturer in the industry today.

If you are in the market for a stair chair, then you have likely seen the many different manufacturers. Acorn provides quality products that are built to last and can be depended upon to provide many years of safe operation. With over 15 years of experience in the stair chair industry, they have continued to think of the customer's safety first and have largely contributed to developing new and advanced technology that is geared towards creating a safe, reliable, and relatively maintenance free product.

Brad Brubaker is an experienced technical writer. For more information on used stair lifts visit http://www.a1-medical-supplies.net. They also have information on new stair lifts and other types of home medical equipment.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brad_Brubaker

acorn stair lift

Acorn Stair Lift - How Does It Rate?

The Acorn Superglide 120 is the number one selling stair lift on the market. But is the number of home stair lifts sold by the company due to hype and slick marketing, or does Acorn sell in large numbers because it's the best?

Safety should be the buyer's first concern when looking for a stair chair lift. It should be a mobility aid and not a health and safety hazard. Also, you need to determine what features it should have to best serve your requirements. The price of the it should be your last concern.

Acorn models come fitted with many safety features as standard. Like most top rated stair lifts, the Acorn Superglide is powered by DC 24 volt rechargeable batteries. This ensures that you're entirely safe from electrocution. Pressure sensitive sensors are fitted to 5 surfaces on the chair; on the footrest and carriage. This ensures that the chair will immediately stop should any obstacle be encountered.

The swivel seat is standard and will only operate when the seat is in the correct locked position.

As standard, an inertia lap belt is supplied, but there is the option of fitting a static, 3-point fixed-over shoulder harness.

Most importantly, electronic and mechanical breaking systems are fitted as standard to prevent any uncontrolled descent of the chair.

One shouldn't assume that all companies provide the above safety features. The Summit stair lift, which is cheaper than the Acorn Superglide, only comes with sensors on the footrest - there is nothing to detect any obstacle on the rail itself. Also, the Summit does not feature a breaking system anywhere as near sophisticated as the Acorn machine.

The Acorn also comes with mechanical joystick and two wireless remote controls. The chair is of a slim line design and can be folded to free up space on the stairs. You can also get outdoor versions and you can get an Acorn Superglide Perch stair lift, which is great for those who have trouble in bending knees.

Few other manufacturers offer so many features as standard and at the same cost of an Acorn machine.

Well, it all sounds too good to be true, but does the Acorn stair lift have any negative points?

In fact, it does. Acorn only makes a straight stair lift. Therefore, you won't be able to use this company's product if your stairs are curved, have middle landing, half turns etc. Other manufacturers like Bruno and Stannah make curved stair lifts. In order for a manufacturer to claim to make the best machines, it really should be making curved models. Curved machines require more advanced manufacturing techniques and one would have to ask if Acorn lacks these.

Also, the Acorn website touts that the Superglide is very easy to install. The company says that if you can put up a set of shelves you can install an Acorn stair lift. The Accessibility Equipment Manufacturer's Association strongly recommends against self-installation for many safety reasons as well as local law violations and lack of warranty. Both Stannah and Bruno advise against self-installation and state that installation of any kind should only be carried out by a qualified technician.

One can't help thinking that Acorn promotes self installation because it helps boost sales.

The Superglide is one of the best stair chair lifts for straight stair cases. Most consumer reviews seem to back this up. But, if you do buy an Acorn stair lift, do have it professionally installed. If the dealer tells you that there isn't any need and it will only add to cost, find another dealer who will install it for you.

Follow the links for the Acorn stair lift and the Bruno stair lift and other stair chair lifts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_O'Brien

Acorn Stair Lift

Acorn Stair Lift

A stair lift is a device that can help people who are either disabled or elderly to go up and down the stairs in their own homes. There are plenty of different companies who now build stair lifts including Acorn Stair Lifts and each model that they produce will be able to cater to a person’s specific needs and requirements. Most types of stair lifts you see today have been specifically designed for use within the home, but there are some which a person can use for outdoors as well.

Certainly by having some form of stair lift in their home a disabled or elderly person will be able to maintain some sort of independence in their life. But each one of the stair lifts produced by either Acorn or other manufacturers of these devices will allow that person to travel safely and easily up and down the stairs in their home.

Acorn Stair Lifts since their formation have manufactured and installed many hundreds of thousands of stair lifts into people’s homes around the globe. By installing these within a person’s home Acorn have been able to ensure that these people can continue to live in the comfort of their own homes until such time as they feel that they are unable to.

Certainly as we get older and if you suffer from any form of disability (no matter how minor) it can be extremely difficult for you to get up and down stairs comfortably and safely. For many as we grow older or suffer from some kind of disability mobility is a problem and climbing up and down stairs can be a very big challenge as well as a big risk involved. Therefore these people will often turn to having a stair lift installed to help reduce the difficulties that they face of gaining access to the upper levels of their home.

All the Acorn Stair Lifts available today to purchase are powered by batteries and so there are no messy cables to worry about as everything is contained within a box that is built onto the chair. Plus many people who have already had one of these stair lifts installed in their homes have found the ride to be extremely smooth especially when the device is stopping and starting. Plus should there be a power cut in your home at any stage then you will know that your stair lift is going to still be able to get you up and down the stairs in your home.

Ricky runs a stair lift information site. Visit his website today for more information on straight stair lift and handicap stair lift.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ricky_Lim

acorn stair lift