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A stairlift provides an efficient way to get up safely and down the stairs, especially when caring for an elderly parent or loved one. However, knowing when the stairlift’s battery is about to die can take time and effort. The best way to understand how to test the battery is to prevent unexpected mishaps.
You can test a stairlift battery by checking the flashlights and beeps and testing the charger and battery’s voltage. The flashlight and beeping check is the easiest method, as the lights and beeps will only work if the battery is high. Voltage testing requires a multimeter or voltmeter.
In the rest of this article, I’ll discuss the three ways to test a stairlift battery. These methods will help you know when the battery is low and charge it before it affects the stairlift’s operation. Let’s get started!
1. Test the Stairlift Charger’s Voltage
Testing the stairlift’s charger confirms if it’s faulty or working as it should. This test is vital when you park the stairlift to charge, but the indicator light still needs to be displayed. In this case, the charger might be faulty, and you must test it to confirm.
You’ll need a multimeter to test the charger’s voltage. Here is the procedure:
- Plug the charger into the power source.
- Set the multimeter to measure AC voltage.
- Connect the multimeter’s probes to the charger’s output terminals.
- Check if the reading is between 27 and 30 volts, the normal range for a stairlift charger. A value below 27 volts indicates that the charger is faulty and needs replacement or repair.
2. Check the Stairlift’s Indicator Lights and Beeps
Stairlifts have lights and alarm systems to alert users of low batteries and other mechanical faults.
Checking the indicator light and listening to the buzzing alarm system is the easiest way to test the battery. These should confirm to you when it’s time to charge it.
To check these, turn on the stairlift and observe if it has a working flashlight. Also, listen to the buzzing alarm that alerts you when the stairlift is on. The lift must beep when you press buttons or move it up and down the stairs. If not, it may be time to charge or replace the battery.
If the light doesn’t come on or the buzzing alarm beeps fail, the following signs confirm that the battery is low or damaged:
- The stairlift moves slowly: Look at the stairlift’s movement, especially in the upwards direction. If the battery is low, the stairlift will begin to move slower as it struggles to lift the load.
- A failed stairlift: The stairlift doesn’t run when you try powering it on.
- An error code on display: If the stairlift has a display, it may show an error code indicating a low or damaged battery.
- Clicking sounds: You may hear some clicking sounds from the relay. However, the stairlift will remain in the stationary position while it clicks.
A stair-climbing cart comes in handy in situations like these when a stairlift fails. The Aluminium Climbing Cart (available on Amazon.com) can make your work easier since you can adjust it to the desired height. Moreover, its adjustable wheels make going over the staircases a breeze—as you can match them with different sizes.
3. Test Your Stairlift Battery Voltage
The previous two tests will confirm if the charger and indicator light is working correctly, but they won’t tell you the exact charge in the battery. Thus, you need to test the battery’s voltage to get a more accurate reading of its charge.
Again, you’ll require a multimeter to test the battery’s voltage. Here is how:
- Set your multimeter to measure DC voltage.
- Locate the battery on the stairlift. It’s usually under the seat.
- Connect the multimeter’s probes to the stairlift battery’s terminals.
- Check if the reading is between 25 and 30 volts, the normal range for a fully charged battery. A value below 25 volts indicates it’s time to charge the battery. If this is the case, park the stairlift and wait for it to charge before using it again.
Since the stairlift takes a long to charge, a handrail is a must-have piece of equipment to keep your loved one moving. The Purife Wall Handrail (available on Amazon.com) will serve you well in this. The handrail is a safety handlebar that allows your loved one to grip it firmly while moving up and down the stairs.
When To Replace Stairlift Batteries
A stairlift is a crucial mobility device for the elderly since it compensates for their decreased physical strength and balance. That’s why it’s essential to keep the stairlift in good working condition, especially its battery.
A common rule of thumb is to replace the stairlift battery every 3-5 years or as the manufacturer advises. However, you must test the battery’s cell stability using a load tester before opting for a replacement.
Since buying a load tester and using it once in three years is not economically viable, it’s better to have a service tech do the testing. The service technician will also advise you if it’s the right time to replace the battery.
Factors That Affect Battery Life
Stairlift batteries typically last between three and five years, depending on the brand. However, this period can be shorter or longer due to the following factors: This is How Long Stair Lift Batteries Typically Last
- Use: A stairlift used several times a day will have a shorter battery life than the one used less frequently.
- Charging: Frequent overcharging or undercharging can damage the battery and shorten its lifespan.
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures increase the rate of chemical reactions in the battery. When this happens, the battery loses more water and is exposed to corrosion, shortening its lifespan. The best way to avert this is to keep the battery at room temperature (20°C or 68°F).
- Maintenance: Proper maintenance, such as regularly cleaning the battery terminals and not over or undercharging, will enhance its lifespan.
Final Thoughts
It’s best to test the stairlift battery regularly to ensure uninterrupted mobility for your loved one. With the above steps, you can test a stairlift battery at home without fuss. However, it’s always best to consult a service technician for proper maintenance and battery replacement advice.
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