Caring for Your Equipment: Avoid Costly Repairs With These Maintenance Tips
Why Regular Maintenance Matters More Than You Think
Mobility equipment is more than a convenience—it’s your connection to freedom, routine, and safety. Whether it’s a stairlift, ramp, grab bar, or platform lift, these tools make daily life easier. But like any piece of equipment, they need attention to stay reliable.
Neglecting even basic maintenance can lead to unexpected breakdowns, unsafe conditions, and expensive repairs. And unlike a car or appliance, mobility gear isn’t just inconvenient when it fails—it can completely change how someone moves through their home.
At KGC Access and Mobility Solutions, we work with families across Richmond to keep equipment in peak condition. The goal is simple: prevent the avoidable, catch the small issues early, and help every system do its job for years to come.
Common Mobility Equipment Issues That Start Small
Most major failures don’t come out of nowhere. They start as minor issues—a squeak here, a slow response there. When left unaddressed, those little signs grow into full-blown problems.
Here are some of the most common issues we see:
Stairlifts:
Tracks getting dirty or misaligned
Batteries wearing down from improper charging
Seat sensors failing due to loose connections
Motors straining from lack of lubrication
Ramps:
Aluminum corrosion or rust (especially outdoors)
Loose bolts or anchors from seasonal expansion
Slippery surfaces from algae, dirt, or debris
Grab Bars:
Wall anchors loosening over time
Corrosion in high-humidity bathrooms
Lifts & Elevators:
Delayed responses from worn buttons or relays
Battery failure in backup systems
Safety sensors misfiring or needing calibration
The sooner these issues are spotted, the easier—and cheaper—they are to fix.
Monthly Checkup Checklist: What You Can Do Yourself
You don’t need to be a technician to keep your equipment in good shape. A quick monthly walk-through can go a long way.
Here’s what to check:
For Stairlifts:
Ride it up and down fully. Does it move smoothly? Any odd noises?
Look at the track. Is it free of dust, dirt, pet hair, or obstacles?
Test the seat swivel and footrest. Do they fold and lock easily?
Check the charger light. Is it receiving power? Blinking lights?
For Ramps:
Walk up and down it. Any slippery patches or loose boards?
Check edges. Are handrails sturdy? Is anything shifting?
Look underneath. Are bolts secure? Any rust at joints?
For Grab Bars:
Push and pull them. Any movement? Wobble? Strange noises?
Inspect for rust. Especially near mounting points and baseplates
For Lifts:
Ride both directions. Is it smooth and level?
Listen. Are there new squeaks or changes in sound?
Check emergency buttons. Do they work properly?
If anything feels different, don’t wait. That early detection can mean the difference between a $30 repair and a full replacement.
Signs It’s Time to Call a Professional
Some issues can’t (and shouldn’t) be handled alone. These are clear signs to call in a certified technician:
Stairlift beeps continuously or won’t move
Battery indicator stays low even while docked
Platform lift doors won’t close fully or start/stop suddenly
Grab bars wiggle or have visible wall separation
Ramp surfaces become dangerously slick even after cleaning
Safety lights or alarms are not functioning
At KGC, we provide quick-turn support and maintenance visits for all the equipment we install. We’ll inspect, service, and replace worn components before they cause failure.
Preventive Maintenance Schedule (By Type)
Stairlifts:
Weekly: Confirm charging status, clear debris from track
Monthly: Ride full track, check for sound or movement issues
Annually: Full inspection and servicing by a technician (check motors, sensors, battery, lubrication)
Ramps:
Weekly: Sweep off leaves, dirt, and moisture
Monthly: Inspect bolts, clean surface, reapply anti-slip coating as needed
Annually: Full structural inspection, relevel if necessary
Grab Bars:
Monthly: Push-test for stability
Annually: Check anchors, seals, and hardware
Platform Lifts:
Daily/Weekly Use: Listen for changes, test emergency stop
Monthly: Ensure safe movement and responsiveness
Annually: Pro technician inspection (buttons, sensors, relays, power backup)
Sticking to this schedule helps keep equipment safe, comfortable, and reliable.
How KGC Access Handles Service and Support
We don’t just install equipment—we stay with you for the long haul. Our service model is built on trust, consistency, and local care.
When You Call Us:
You speak to a local technician or project lead—not a call center
We schedule maintenance at a time that works for your routine
We bring the tools and parts needed to fix most issues on the spot
Our Maintenance Services Include:
Lubrication and recalibration
Battery testing and replacement
Track cleaning and safety inspection
Hardware tightening and structural checks
We also offer annual service packages, where we proactively check your equipment each year so you don’t have to worry about remembering. These packages can extend warranties and help avoid unexpected expenses.
Keeping Your Equipment—and Confidence—Running Smoothly
For most of our clients, mobility equipment is more than a tool—it’s part of their lifestyle. A stairlift might be how someone gets to their bedroom. A ramp might be how they leave for appointments. A grab bar might be the difference between a safe shower and a risky fall.
That’s why we believe in empowered maintenance.
We don’t want you to be afraid of your equipment. We want you to understand it, feel confident using it, and know exactly what to do when something changes.
Because the better care your equipment receives, the more freedom and peace of mind it gives you in return.
Ready for a Checkup?
Whether it’s been a few months or a few years since your equipment was installed, there’s no wrong time to get it checked.
Connect with KGC Access and Mobility Solutions for a simple, respectful service visit or to set up regular maintenance.
Let’s keep your equipment running—and keep you moving—with confidence.
