Can I sell an Acorn stairlift? Key options for sellers
While Acorn does not offer a buy-back program for its used stairlifts, you still have several options for reselling or otherwise disposing of your equipment. The best path depends on your specific stairlift model, its condition, and how much effort you are willing to put into the sale.
Private sale: DIY vs. using a reseller
Selling your Acorn stairlift privately is often the route recommended by the manufacturer to achieve the best return. However, it requires significant effort and knowledge of the equipment.
Online marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist are common platforms for selling used medical equipment. To sell successfully on these sites, you will need to:
- Take detailed, high-quality photos of the stairlift from multiple angles.
- Write a comprehensive description including the make, model, age, and condition.
- Specify in the listing that the buyer is responsible for professional dismantling and collection. This is a crucial step to protect yourself and ensure safety.
Specialist resellers: For those who prefer a more streamlined process, specialist companies that buy and refurbish used stairlifts are a great option. Companies like We Buy Any Stairlift purchase a range of brands, including Acorn models like the Brooks 130 and T700. These companies typically offer cash payment and include free professional removal, saving you the hassle of finding a qualified technician. The price offered depends on the lift's age and condition, as they need to factor in refurbishing costs.
Other alternatives to selling
If selling proves difficult, or if your stairlift is an older model, other options are available.
Donation: Many local and national charities or community groups accept donations of used mobility equipment. This is a charitable way to help someone in need and may offer a tax-deductible receipt. It's important to note that most organizations prefer straight stairlifts that have already been professionally removed. Some may not accept older or curved models.
Scrap or recycling: For stairlifts that are too old or damaged to be refurbished, recycling is a responsible disposal method. Professional mobility aid recyclers can take the equipment and dispose of the various components properly, including the batteries. While this is not a profitable option, it is a low-effort way to get rid of the lift without having it end up in a landfill.
Critical factors affecting your stairlift's resale value
Straight vs. Curved Lifts
The most significant factor determining resale potential is whether the lift is straight or curved.
- Straight Stairlifts: These are the most common and easiest to resell because they use a standard, modular rail that can be cut to fit other staircases. Most reseller companies and private buyers are interested in straight models.
- Curved Stairlifts: These are custom-built to the exact specifications of a single staircase and are extremely difficult to resell. The rail is almost always unique to its original installation, meaning only the chair and carriage components have any potential resale value. Most buy-back companies will not purchase these and will instead offer a removal and disposal service for a fee.
Age and Model
Stairlift technology and safety standards evolve. Companies that buy used stairlifts often have age restrictions, usually only buying back newer models (typically under five years old). Older or obsolete models are often scrapped for parts. The best way to determine your lift's age is by finding the serial number, which you can then check with the manufacturer or a reseller.
Condition
Naturally, the condition of your stairlift will affect its value. A well-maintained lift with a full service history will command a higher price. Buyers will want reassurance that the lift has been regularly serviced and is in good working order. This is especially true for private buyers who have no warranty to rely on.
Comparison of selling options
| Feature | Private Sale (e.g., eBay) | Reseller Company (e.g., We Buy Any Stairlift) | Donation (Charity or Community) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Potential Payout | Highest potential return, but no guarantee. | Lower, but guaranteed cash offer. | No cash return; potential tax deduction. |
| Time & Effort | High. Requires listing, communication with buyers, and managing collection. | Low. Company handles valuation, purchase, and removal. | Moderate. Researching charities and coordinating pickup. |
| Buyer Responsibility | All buyer communication, vetting, and ensuring professional removal. | Minimal. Reseller handles everything. | Coordinating pickup; may have to pay for professional removal first. |
| Applicability | Best for newer, straight lifts in good condition. Difficult for curved lifts. | Purchases specific straight models (e.g., Acorn T700). Often won't buy older or curved lifts. | Primarily accepts functional, straight lifts. May not take older or curved models. |
| Risks | Scams, unprofessional removal, damage to property, potential disputes. | Reputable companies have low risk. Ensure they are licensed and reputable. | Minimal risk, but ensure the organization is legitimate. |
Professional vs. DIY removal
Regardless of your chosen path, the proper removal of your stairlift is crucial. Professional removal is almost always recommended to avoid injury and damage to your property. Stairlifts are heavy, complex electrical devices with rails that are bolted into the stairs. Improper removal can damage the staircase and be dangerous. Professional technicians can remove most lifts in one to two hours, and some reseller companies include removal in their service. If you are selling privately, you must stipulate that the buyer arranges and pays for a professional removal. Attempting DIY removal without expertise is ill-advised and can lead to expensive repairs or accidents.
Conclusion
While you can't sell an Acorn stairlift back to the manufacturer, you have several alternative avenues to explore. A private sale through online marketplaces offers the highest potential return, especially for a newer, straight-track model in excellent condition, but it requires significant effort. For a smoother process, consider a specialist reseller that buys used Acorn stairlifts, though you will receive less money. Finally, for lifts that are older or in poor condition, donation or recycling are practical and responsible options. For any route, professional removal is essential to ensure safety and prevent property damage.
Acorn Stairlifts Customer Service page provides guidance on private selling for existing customers.
Potential costs and fees
It is important to remember that getting rid of a stairlift isn't always a source of income and can sometimes involve costs.
- Buy-back offer: For a newer straight lift, a buy-back offer from a reseller might be a few hundred dollars, as they factor in reconditioning and removal costs.
- Removal fee: If a company cannot buy your lift back (e.g., it's a curved or obsolete model), they will often charge a fee for professional removal and disposal, typically ranging from $200 to $500.
- DIY expenses: While DIY saves on professional fees, it requires proper tools, multiple helpers, and poses a higher risk of damage or injury. You will also need to arrange proper disposal of the parts.
Therefore, a detailed valuation and a clear understanding of your lift's specifications are the first steps to determining the most effective course of action.
