Handicare, by Savaria
Handicare 1000
straight stairlift
Two things set the 1000 apart: it carries up to 440 lb, and its gear rack is hidden inside an anodized aluminum rail, which is what makes it our usual answer for outdoor steps.
Installed in 2 to 4 hours across Brampton, Mississauga, Toronto and the GTA by our own technicians.
Three ratings, and the seat you pick decides which one you get.
Most stairlift pages quote one capacity figure. The 1000 has three, because the heavy duty upgrade and the Perch seat pull in opposite directions. This is the table to read before you choose a seat.
350 lb
159 kg, Smart seat. The rating every Handicare 1000 carries out of the box. Already above the 310 lb of our most-installed model, the 1100.
440 lb
200 kg, Smart seat. An option we specify at the assessment. This is the highest capacity available on any straight stairlift we install.
300 lb
136 kg, indoor only. The semi-standing seat caps capacity lower than standard. If you need both a Perch seat and high capacity, we will tell you at the assessment.
The gear rack is hidden inside the rail.
On most stairlifts the toothed rack sits exposed along the rail. On the 1000 it is enclosed in anodized aluminum. Savaria's own reasoning: it looks unobtrusive on the stairs, and it keeps the rack protected from weather and debris, which is exactly what an outdoor install needs.
The outdoor package adds UV-protected plastic parts, zinc-coated hardware, and a weather-resistant slate vinyl seat with a cover that locks over it when parked.
Have us assess my steps
Two straight answers about outdoor installs
First, Savaria rates the outdoor package for moderate climates and for distance from salt water. That does not mean it cannot go outside here, it means exposure matters: a covered porch, a sheltered side entrance or protected deck stairs are the installs we are comfortable recommending. Second, and less well known, the powered swivel and powered footrest are not available on outdoor units - an outdoor 1000 has the manual versions. If powered options matter more than the location, an indoor install is the way to get them.
Two seats, and they solve different problems
This is the decision we spend the most time on at an assessment, because the wrong seat is the reason people stop using a stairlift.
Smart seat
A compact-looking seat that adjusts three ways: height, armrest width and seat depth. That adjustability is what makes it work for two people of different sizes sharing one lift.
Three wipe-clean vinyls
We bring the real vinyl samples to your assessment rather than showing you an approximation on a screen. Outdoor installs are supplied in slate only.
Perch seat
You ride semi-standing rather than seated. Savaria's reason for offering it is precise: it is for people who find the transition from standing to sitting difficult. It also solves a staircase with treads too shallow to sit with your knees bent.
A five-point safety harness is available with either seat if more security is wanted.
Note the trade-off: choosing the Perch seat caps capacity at 300 lb, below even the standard rating.
Three fabrics, all wipe-clean.
The upholstery is a textured wipe-clean vinyl rather than a woven fabric, which matters more than the colour does: spills come off with a damp cloth, and it does not hold pet hair.
Bring a photo of your staircase to the assessment and we will hold the samples against it. Outdoor units come in Slate grey only, as part of the UV- and weather-protected package.
Swatches below are taken from Handicare's own brochure. Screens vary, so treat them as a guide and ask to see the physical samples.
Smart seat and Perch seat, side by side.
Four of the six dimensions are identical across both seats. The two that differ are the ones that define what a Perch seat is: it sits far higher off the footplate and is much shallower front to back, because you lean against it rather than sit right back in it.
| Ref | Smart and Outdoor seats | Perch seat |
|---|---|---|
| A | 3 in (75 mm) | 3 in (75 mm) |
| B | 16¾ in (425 mm) | 12⅝ in (247 mm) |
| C | 18⅛ in (465 mm) | 18⅛ in (465 mm) |
| D | 17⅞ in (455 mm) | 17⅞ in (455 mm) |
| E | 18¼-21¼ in (465-540 mm) | 26½-34½ in (675-875 mm) |
| F | 2¾ in (70 mm) | 2¾ in (70 mm) |
References key to the lettered drawing in Handicare's brochure and are listed here as printed. Fold-out depth increases with the 440 lb capacity option or arm spacers.
Options we price at the assessment
Each of these exists to solve a specific problem in a specific house. Tell us the problem and we will tell you which ones you actually need.
Heavy duty capacity
Takes the Smart seat rating from 350 lb up to 440 lb. Specified at the assessment, not added later.
Outdoor package
UV-protected plastics, zinc-coated hardware, weather-resistant slate vinyl seat and a cover. For moderate exposures.
Power swivel
Indoor units only. The seat turns at the top landing from the toggle switch instead of the manual swivel handle.
Power footrest
Indoor units only. Worth it if bending down to fold the footrest by hand is difficult or painful.
Power folding hinge
For a doorway at the bottom of the stairs. Keeps the landing free of a tripping hazard, without anyone folding it by hand.
Rail extension brackets
For a door near the top landing. Reduces how far the rail intrudes past the staircase.
What comes as standard
Nothing on this list is an upgrade. Every 1000 we install arrives this way.
One difference worth knowing if you are comparing with the Handicare 1100: the 1000 charges at the top and bottom of the stairs, while the 1100 charges continuously along the whole rail.
Handicare 1000 specifications
Manufacturer figures, published by Savaria.
Figures from the Handicare 1000 brochure. Fold-out depth increases with the 440 lb capacity option or arm spacers. Outdoor suitability varies with climate and proximity to salt water, and powered features are not available on outdoor units. Warranty terms are confirmed in writing with your quote.
Safety, as built
Fitted on every 1000, not optional.
- Obstacle sensors on the footrest and carriage stop the lift if something is in the way
- The seat swivels and locks, so you step off onto level floor
- Non-skid footrest surface and a retractable seatbelt
- An overspeed governor holds the descent to its rated speed
Choose the 1000 if
- You need more than 310 lb, or up to 440 lb
- The steps are outside, under cover
- Sitting fully is difficult and a Perch seat would help
- The staircase is unusually shallow or unusually steep
Look elsewhere if
- You want the most discreet rail - the 1100 has no rack at all
- Budget decides it - see the Savaria K2
- The staircase turns or has a landing - that needs a curved lift
The 1000, installed
Manufacturer photography of real installations. Configurations vary by region.
What a Handicare 1000 costs, and who helps pay
Four things move the number on this model: staircase length, indoor or outdoor, the capacity upgrade, and which seat you choose. An outdoor install is the biggest single factor.
Stairlifts are not covered by Ontario's ADP. Any company that tells you otherwise is wrong, and we would rather you heard it from us. IFHP may cover eligible benefit-grid equipment. Westin prepares quotes and documents; billing follows the program, claim or plan authorization.
Get my written priceMarch of Dimes Canada
The Home and Vehicle Modification Program may fund an eligible stairlift when applicant, request and authorization rules fit.
Veterans Affairs Canada
POC 13 may help only for an eligible assessed need with benefit-grid approval.
WSIB
Only for an allowed work-related claim with clinical support and authorization.
Federal tax credit
The federal Home Accessibility Tax Credit may offset part of an eligible enduring home renovation when CRA eligibility rules fit. It is not an Ontario credit, and we do not promise a stairlift qualifies.
Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
ODSP Mandatory Special Necessities excludes home renovations such as ramps and stairlifts. It is not blanket stairlift funding.
Private insurance and financing
Extended health plans sometimes contribute. Ask us about monthly payment options.
Handicare 1000 questions
What is the weight capacity of the Handicare 1000?
350 lb (159 kg) as standard, with an optional upgrade to 440 lb (200 kg) on the Smart seat. If you choose the semi-standing Perch seat the maximum is 300 lb (136 kg). It is the highest-capacity straight stairlift we install.
Can the Handicare 1000 really go outdoors in Ontario?
Savaria rates the outdoor package for moderate climates, so exposure decides it. Covered porches, sheltered side entrances and protected deck stairs are the installs we are comfortable recommending here. The hidden gear rack keeps the drive protected from weather and debris, and the package adds UV-protected plastics, zinc-coated hardware and a weather-resistant slate seat with a cover. We look at your steps and tell you honestly.
How much does a Handicare 1000 cost?
It depends on staircase length, indoor or outdoor, the capacity option and the seat. You get a written figure at the free in-home assessment with no obligation. Call 905 451-7743 to book a visit anywhere in the GTA.
What is a Perch seat, and who is it for?
It lets you ride semi-standing rather than seated. Savaria offers it for people who find the transition from standing to sitting difficult, and it also solves a staircase with treads too shallow to sit with knees bent. Indoor use only, 300 lb maximum.
Can grandchildren or visitors use the stairlift without permission?
Not if you would rather they did not. The 1000 comes with a keyed switch as standard, so the lift can be locked out and only used by whoever holds the key. It is a common request in households where young children visit.
What colours does the Handicare 1000 come in?
Three wipe-clean vinyl upholstery colours: Sand, Slate and Cacao. Outdoor units come in Slate grey only, as part of the UV- and weather-protected package. We bring samples to the assessment.
How steep or shallow a staircase can it handle?
21° to 56°, with up to 32 ft of travel - the widest incline range of any straight lift we carry, which is why the 1000 is often the answer on unusually shallow basement stairs or steep older staircases. Fitting a hinged rail narrows the range to 27°-52°, so we check the angle before recommending one.
What seat colours can I choose?
The Smart seat comes in three wipe-clean vinyls: sand, cacao and slate, and it adjusts for height, armrest width and seat depth. Outdoor installations are slate only.
There is a door at the top of my stairs. Does that rule it out?
No. Rail extension brackets reduce how far the rail intrudes past a top landing door. For a door at the bottom, a power folding hinge lifts the rail end clear so it is not a tripping hazard.
Can I have the powered swivel or powered footrest on an outdoor stairlift?
No. Handicare does not offer the powered features on outdoor units, so an outdoor 1000 has the manual swivel and manual footrest. If powered options matter more than the location, an indoor install is the way to get them.
Is the Handicare 1000 covered by ADP?
No. ADP does not cover stairlifts. March of Dimes HVMP may fund an eligible stairlift when applicant, request and authorization rules fit. WSIB may help only on an allowed work-related claim with clinical support and authorization. Veterans Affairs POC 13 may help only for an eligible assessed need with benefit-grid approval. IFHP may cover eligible benefit-grid equipment, and a 30 percent co-payment applies to eligible supplemental items since May 1, 2026. The federal Home Accessibility Tax Credit may offset part of an eligible enduring home renovation when CRA eligibility rules fit. ODSP Mandatory Special Necessities excludes home renovations such as ramps and stairlifts. Westin prepares quotes and documents; billing follows the program, claim or plan authorization.
Does it work during a power failure?
Yes. It runs on a 24 VDC battery with charging built in at the top and bottom of the stairs, and provides several up and down trips during an outage.
What warranty comes with it?
Handicare covers parts for 24 months and adds a limited lifetime warranty on the rail and the powertrain - the two most expensive assemblies on a stairlift. We are the dealer, so servicing and repairs come from the technicians who installed it, and the full terms are confirmed in writing with your quote.
Handicare 1000 installation across the GTA
We install and service the Handicare 1000, indoors and out, from our Brampton showroom at Unit 7, 15 Fisherman Drive. Same technicians for the assessment, the install and every service call afterwards.
If the 1000 is not the one
Five other straight models, or see all six compared side by side.
Look elsewhere if
Book a free Handicare 1000 assessment
We measure the rise and the incline, check the exposure if the steps are outside, confirm the capacity and seat you need, and leave you a written price. No charge, and no pressure afterwards.