How Long Does It Take to Charge A Stairlift Battery
Stairlifts are a valuable asset in accessibility, helping you access all the levels of your home. Stairlifts are battery-powered and recharged when sitting at their charging points.
Stairlift batteries can ensure you complete your ride down or up the stairs safely if there is a power outage. The batteries also last long enough to deliver several trips so that you can maintain full access to your home even during a prolonged power outage.
However, batteries have to be recharged, and the amount of time it takes to charge the battery fully varies depending on several factors, including its capacity.
A stairlift battery takes 12 to 16 hours to fully charge. However, the exact time varies depending on various factors, such as the stairlift’s model, the battery’s capacity, and its condition, as highlighted below.
The time it takes to charge your stairlift battery fully depends on several factors. Understanding these factors can help you better ensure your stairlift is ready when needed and make it easier to maintain.
The capacity of the stairlift battery is the leading factor influencing how long it takes to charge fully. The capacity of the battery is measured in ampere-hours (Ah). The more ampere hours the battery has, the longer it will last and the longer it will take to charge fully.
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Higher-capacity batteries store more energy and take longer to charge. The HomeGlide, for instance, uses 12V, 7Ah batteries, while the Flow X has batteries with the same capacity specifications. However, the charger output is different, affecting the overall charging time.
Different stairlifts are fitted with different battery chargers. The type and power rating of the charger fitted in your stairlift will determine how long it takes to charge the battery fully. Chargers with a higher output current can charge the batteries faster, while those with a lower input need more time to charge the same batteries.
For instance, if the batteries have the same capacity, a charger with a 24V output will take less time to charge them than one with a lower voltage.
The power supply in your home will also influence the time required to fully charge your stairlift batteries. A stable and consistent power supply will provide faster charging times, while fluctuations will lead to longer charging periods because the charger has to compensate for the irregular supply.
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For the fastest charging time, you should use a stable power source to help maintain optimal charging times.
How frequently you use the stairlift lift will also impact the battery’s charging cycle. Frequent use means the battery requires more time to charge fully and also requires frequent charging. Charging times will drastically reduce if you use the stairlift sparingly.
Additionally, frequently charging the battery will negatively affect its health and reduce charging efficiency. If possible, it’s advisable to allow the battery to fully charge before using the stairlift.
The typical charging times for stairlift batteries depend on the type of stairlift you have installed and the specification of the charger the stairlift comes with.
The HomeGlide homelift is fitted with a 12V, 7Ah battery that takes 16 hours to charge fully. Once fully charged, the battery can support up to 10 journeys on a single charge at 125 kg capacity and one-floor height.
The Flow X stairlift has two 12V batteries for 24V with 7Ah. However, it has a shorter charging time of about 14 hours for a full charge because it has a more efficient charging system.
These general time estimates can vary based on usage patterns and other conditions of the stairlift, such as how long it has been in use. Typically, the older the battery, the longer it will take to fully charge.
Optimising the charging efficiency of your stairlift will do more than ensure the battery charges in the shortest time possible. It will also maintain a healthy lifespan and prolong the use of the battery. Some of the tips you can use to maintain optimum charging efficiency include:
You should maintain a regular and consistent charging schedule to maintain your battery’s capacity and health. You should also avoid letting the battery discharge completely before recharging, which can shorten its lifespan.
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Keep the area around the charging station clean and free from dust and debris. Proper ventilation and cleanliness prevent the battery and charger from overheating, which can negatively affect the charging time and the battery’s health.
Ensure you keep up with the scheduled maintenance and servicing of the stairlift and the battery to ensure all components, including the battery and charger, are functioning correctly. Faulty parts should be replaced promptly to maintain charging efficiency.
With these tips, you know how long your stairlift battery takes to charge fully. You should also follow some tips to optimise charging efficiency and ensure better performance and longer lifespan from your stairlift battery.
