How to Manually Move a Stair Lift

To prevent electrical injury, you should turn off all power sources to your stair lift before attempting to move it. Stair lifts often have multiple power sources, so check both the main switch and any auxiliary switches. The power light on the stair lift should be off.

Your stair lift’s manual should help you determine the location of its manual release mechanism. The mechanism could be a level, a handle, or a key; it is typically located near the seat or beside the stair lift track. Disengage the manual release mechanism—doing so allows the stair lift to move without help from the motor.

In addition to disengaging the manual release, your model of stair lift might require that other components be in place before you attempt to manually move it. These instructions might include:

• Locking the armrests and footrest

• Rotating the chair to the proper position, sometimes with the aid of a manual swivel lever

• Securing hinged rails by locking them into place

Check the track for any obstructions that might be causing a blockage, and remove any you find.

With the manual release mechanism disengaged and obstructions removed, you can now carefully move the stair lift. Gently push or pull it along the track until it is where you want it to be.

Your stair lift might also come with a hand winder, which is usually found on the side, front, or bottom of the machine. If so, you can rotate it until the stair lift is in your desired location.

When moving the stair lift, move slowly—it’s a heavy, cumbersome machine, and moving deliberately is important to prevent injuries.

Once your stair lift is in the desired position, you should re-engage the locking mechanism to keep it in place after you restore power. Forgetting to lock the stair lift could be a recipe for injury, as the heavy machine could shift as soon as the power supply is back.