Ohana Stairlifts · Service & Self-Help
What Should I Do if My Stairlift Needs Servicing?
Simple checks, clear next steps, and local help to keep you moving comfortably at home.
We service the stairlift brands we sell. We do not provide repairs or maintenance for other brands.
A stairlift often gives small clues before a complete shutdown. Changes in sound, movement, charging, or controls can help you spot a problem early.
First steps before calling for service
If there is no damage or immediate safety concern, these simple checks may resolve an operating issue or help us understand what is happening.
- Check the power and key switches.Use the switches identified in your manual. Some models will not charge while switched off.
- Check the charger and household power.Confirm that the charger is plugged in and the outlet has power. If the outlet has a GFCI/GFI indicator, check its status. Do not open the charger or electrical components, and do not repeatedly reset a tripping outlet or breaker.
- Confirm the charging position.Your lift may charge at one or both ends of the rail, or along the rail, depending on the model. Check the normal charging indicator in your manual.
- Check the seat and operating positions.Make sure the seat is fully rotated and locked for travel. Position the armrests and seat belt as your manual instructs.
- Look for loose objects.Check the stairs, footrest, and travel path for items pressing an obstruction sensor. Remove only loose objects you can reach safely. Keep your hands out of the mechanism.
- Check the controls.Try the chair control and, if applicable, the call/send remote as the manual allows. A remote may be out of range or need a new battery.
- Record any warning.Note the displayed code, light color, and beep pattern. A short video or audio recording can help us understand an intermittent issue.
- Follow the model’s troubleshooting guide.Use only its approved operating or reset steps. If normal operation does not return, stop and contact the service team.
How to test your stairlift remote
Use this phone-camera check only if your stairlift remote uses infrared (IR); it does not test radio-frequency remotes.
How to test your stairlift remote (YouTube)
Some phone cameras filter infrared, so a missing flash does not by itself prove the remote is faulty. Read more about the camera test. If you are unsure which remote type you have, contact an Ohana Team Member.
Common stairlift problems and possible causes
These are possible explanations, not a diagnosis. An unfamiliar or recurring fault needs professional attention.
The lift will not move
Possible cause: Power switch off, charging issue, unlocked seat, activated safety edge, or system fault.
Safe next step: Check approved controls, charging, seat position, and visible obstructions. Record any code.
Repeated beeping
Possible cause: The lift is away from a charging point, the battery is low, or a safety condition or fault is active.
Safe next step: Check the parking position and model’s beep-code guide. Call if the warning continues.
The remote does not work
Possible cause: Remote battery, range, pairing, or receiver issue.
Safe next step: Try the chair control. Replace the remote battery only as your manual allows.
Jerky or noisy travel
Possible cause: Debris, wear, a loose component, alignment issue, or drive-system fault.
Safe next step: Stop use and arrange service. Do not adjust or lubricate the rail unless your manual specifically allows it.
Short battery runtime
Possible cause: Aging batteries, a charging fault, power interruption, or heavy use.
Safe next step: Check normal charging indicators and arrange a professional battery and charging-system test.
It stops in the same place
Possible cause: An obstruction, rail issue, position sensor, or another fault.
Safe next step: Check for loose objects and note where it stops. Persistent faults need service.
When to call a professional
Pause use and contact Ohana Stairlifts if basic checks do not restore normal operation, or if you notice:
- Grinding, scraping, squealing, unusual clicking, or repeated beeping.
- Jerky, hesitant, unusually slow, or inconsistent movement.
- Unexpected stops or faults that return after an approved reset.
- Persistent error codes, warning lights, or unfamiliar beep patterns.
- Reduced battery performance or continuing charging problems.
- A loose or damaged seat, footrest, armrest, swivel, rail, mounting point, or folding component.
- Damage following an impact, flood, leak, or nearby remodeling work.
Which problems can I handle myself?
Limit homeowner troubleshooting to the operating checks, routine cleaning, and other actions specifically described in your owner’s manual, such as clearing a loose object or replacing a remote battery.
Leave internal battery replacement, wiring, mechanical adjustments, rail alignment, controller diagnosis, sensor calibration, and cover removal to trained professionals. Unauthorized changes can create a safety risk and may affect warranty coverage.
Call the service teamIf your stairlift stops while you are on it
- Stay seated with your seat belt fastened. Do not try to climb off onto the stairs. Ask for assistance and follow emergency responders’ directions if an emergency develops.
- Release the control. Look for an obvious obstruction. Remove an object only if you can do so safely without leaning, reaching into the mechanism, or unfastening your belt.
- Follow your owner’s manual. Check the status light or code and use only the operating or reset steps approved for your model.
- Call for help. Use your phone, voice assistant, wearable alert, or another planned method to contact a caregiver or service provider.
- For immediate danger, call 911. Treat fire, smoke, sparks, or a medical emergency as urgent. Do not continue operating the lift.
Keep a phone or alert device within reach when using the lift, and have a household plan for getting help if it stops between floors.
Protecting your stairlift during a power outage
Many stairlifts travel using onboard batteries while household electricity keeps those batteries charged. A charged lift may still operate during an outage, but the number of available trips depends on the model, battery condition, load, and travel distance.
- Use remaining battery power thoughtfully. Have a backup mobility and communication plan; do not assume the lift will run throughout a long outage.
- Check your model’s instructions. Loss of charging power may trigger a warning sound or indicator. Beep patterns and charging arrangements differ.
- For an extended outage, ask about safe shutdown. If the lift is parked safely, unoccupied, and no longer needed, follow the exact manual or your dealer’s instructions for switching it off to reduce battery drain. Unplugging the charger alone does not switch off the lift.
- Know the correct switch before you need it. Switch locations differ between Handicare 1000, 1100, Freecurve, Harmar Pinnacle SL600, and Helix models and versions. Do not remove a cover or reach underneath an occupied lift to find a switch.
- When power returns, restore normal charging. Follow your manual to turn the lift back on and confirm its charging indicator. The Pinnacle SL600 must be switched on to charge. Call us if charging or normal operation does not resume.
Unsure which switch to use? Call (808) 940-0702 or text our team with your model information. See the official owner’s manuals below for diagrams and model-specific instructions.
Routine maintenance helps protect your independence
For someone who relies on a stairlift to reach a bedroom, bathroom, or living area, dependable operation matters every day. Preventative service can identify worn batteries, loose connections, sensor issues, unusual noises, or mounting concerns before they cause a shutdown.
How often should a stairlift be serviced?
Follow the schedule for your exact model. The Harmar Pinnacle SL600 owner’s manual recommends an annual inspection by a qualified technician. The Harmar Helix owner’s manual specifies a maintenance checklist every six months. Your dealer, usage, environment, and service agreement may call for additional attention.
Outdoor lifts and equipment exposed to coastal conditions, humidity, or dust may need closer attention. Battery life also varies with usage, charging habits, temperature, and condition. Have the batteries and charging system tested rather than relying on a universal replacement timetable.
What happens during a service appointment?
The checklist varies by model, but a professional visit may include:
- Reviewing symptoms, fault codes, beep patterns, and service history.
- Inspecting the rail, mounts, seat, armrests, footrest, swivel, belt, and folding components.
- Testing safety edges, obstruction sensors, interlocks, controls, and remotes.
- Checking ride quality, stopping, parking, and charging behavior.
- Testing battery condition and charging performance.
- Inspecting wiring, connections, charger, and controller diagnostics.
- Cleaning approved areas and carrying out manufacturer-approved adjustments or parts replacement.
Do not spray lubricants or cleaners onto the rail or internal components unless the exact manual or an authorized technician approves it. The Pinnacle SL600 drive does not require lubrication; other models have different maintenance requirements.
Everyday tips for looking after your lift
- Keep the stairs and rail clear. Remove loose household objects and use only cleaning methods approved in the manual.
- Park where it charges. Confirm the normal charging indicator before leaving the lift.
- Keep the charger connected during normal use. Follow any different instructions in your manual or from your dealer.
- Use the lift as designed. Observe its weight capacity, sit fully in the seat, fasten the belt, and keep items clear of the travel path.
- Report changes early. New noises, hesitation, warning signals, or reduced runtime deserve attention.
- Protect outdoor equipment. Follow its cover, cleaning, temperature, and weather guidance.
- Keep service records together. Save the model, serial number, installation date, owner’s manual, warranty, dealer contact, and service history.
Official owner’s manuals and troubleshooting
Choose the manual that matches your exact model and version. Contact us if you are unsure which guide applies.
- Handicare user manuals and troubleshooting — select your model, including 1000, 1100, or Freecurve.
- Harmar Pinnacle SL600 owner’s manual (PDF)
- Harmar Helix owner’s manual (PDF)
These links open manufacturer resources in a new tab. This general guide does not replace the instructions supplied with your stairlift.
Frequently asked service questions
Who should I call if my stairlift needs repair?
Start with the dealer who installed it; their details may be on the equipment or in your paperwork. Have the make, model, serial number, installation date, and issue ready. Ohana services the stairlift brands we sell. We do not repair other brands. If yours is a brand we sell, contact Ohana Stairlifts to confirm availability for your model and island.
How often should my stairlift be serviced?
Follow its owner’s manual and your service agreement. For example, the Pinnacle SL600 recommends an annual professional inspection, while the Helix specifies maintenance every six months. Usage and conditions may call for additional attention.
Why is my stairlift beeping?
It may be away from a charging point, have a low battery, detect a safety condition, or be reporting a fault. Record the beep pattern and check the manual for your exact model. Call for help if the warning persists.
Can I lubricate my Harmar stairlift rail?
Do not apply grease or lubricant unless your exact manual or an authorized technician directs it. The Pinnacle SL600 drive does not need lubrication; the Helix has different professional maintenance requirements.
How do I know if the batteries need replacing?
Slower starts, reduced travel, low-battery warnings, or a failure to hold charge may indicate a battery or charging problem. A technician can test both systems before replacing parts.
What if the lift stops while I am on it?
Remain seated with your belt fastened, release the control, and check only what you can safely see or reach. Follow the model’s instructions and call for assistance if it does not resume. Do not climb off onto the stairs. Call 911 for an emergency.
Local help, when you need the next step
If you own a stairlift from a brand we sell and the safe checks do not solve the issue, an Ohana Team Member can help you plan the next step. Tell us your island, stairlift make and model, and what you are experiencing.
Service is available for the stairlift brands we sell. Availability depends on your model, parts, island, and scheduling. For other brands, please contact your original dealer or manufacturer.