Why lift modernization is required
Nathan Palmer - June 13, 2022Modernization is the process of updating your elevator’s components with new technology in order to enhance its safety, performance, and aesthetics. It can be difficult to determine when elevator modernization is needed. Here are the advantages of modernization and indications that your elevator may need to be updated or lift spare parts should be installed.
Knowing When Elevator Modernization Upgrades Are Necessary
Lift modernization is the process of updating key elevator components in order to keep up with new technology, improve elevator efficiency, and increase passenger safety. Modernization is less costly than a complete elevator replacement, reduces energy consumption, and increases property value, making it a wise investment for your elevator system.
At the end of your elevator’s lifespan, elevator modernization becomes necessary when servicing, repairs, and replacements become frequent and expensive. Hydraulic elevators have an average lifespan of 20 to 25 years, overhead traction elevators have an average lifespan of 30 years, and machine room-less elevators have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. However, these numbers are only estimates, and the exact lifespan of an elevator depends on how frequently it is used. The decision to modernize your elevator should be made by a technician based on its specific requirements.
What to Upgrade
Various elevator components can be upgraded during the modernization process. These components consist of the controller, motors, interior control panels or call button panels, landing doors and cab doors, door equipment, fire recall service, card reader or floor access restriction services, rollers, cab interiors, and a variety of aesthetic features.
When modernizing the elevator cab’s interior, you are investing in the portion of the elevator that passengers interact with the most. This elevator upgrade is a worthwhile investment for ensuring that your elevator is up to code and that passengers have a safe, comfortable, and pleasurable ride when using your elevator. However, do not overlook the other concealed components of your elevator that may also require modernization.
Depending on the needs of your elevator, you can modernize the entire system or just select components. For elevators servicing more than four floors in a high-rise building, comprehensive modernization is recommended rather than piecemeal modernization. However, elevators servicing up to four floors in low-rise buildings can be partially modernized.
Advantages of elevators’ modernization
Controller Modernization
Modernizing your elevator’s controller can improve the elevator’s energy efficiency, ride comfort, response time, floor leveling accuracy, and compliance with emergency service requirements. If you observe decreased energy efficiency resulting in higher energy bills, sluggish response times, or an elevator car that is not level with the floor when it reaches its destination, it may be time to update your controller.
Upgrades to Door Equipment
Modernization of door equipment is advantageous for passenger safety, noise reduction, door speed, elevator aesthetics, and installation or replacement of an electronic door reopening device. Modernization of your elevator doors may be required if you experience a delay in the opening of your doors, if you hear any new noises, or if your elevator doors are beginning to look worn or outdated.
Modernization of Vehicle Cabs
Modernization of your elevator’s cab enclosure can help your elevator achieve ADA compliance, improve riders’ comfort, replace lights with low-voltage lighting for increased energy efficiency, and enhance your elevator’s interior aesthetics. Consider modernizing your elevator’s cab enclosure if it does not meet ADA specifications, if your energy bills are high, or if your elevator’s cab appears worn or out of date.
Signal Equipment Modernization
Modernizing signal equipment for ADA compliance, vandalism resistance, and improved aesthetics, as well as to upgrade emergency lighting and communication systems for enhanced safety, is possible. Modernizing your elevator’s signal equipment may be advantageous if it has not been updated for some time.
Hydraulic Power Unit Upgrades
Modernizing your hydraulic power unit will enhance the performance of your elevator, reduce vibrations and noise, improve floor leveling accuracy, reduce energy consumption, and eliminate overheating issues. If your elevator is not operating smoothly or efficiently, it may be time to update its hydraulic power unit.
Traction Improvements
Upgrades to traction will improve your vehicle’s efficiency, braking system, safety, and code compliance. Upgrades to the elevator’s traction may be necessary if it does not operate or stop smoothly.
Future Measures and Schedules for Elevator Modernization
If you notice any problem with your elevator’s equipment, hire a professional to assess the elevator’s condition and assist you in determining the best solution for your needs. Elevator technicians will assist you in developing a modernization plan that specifies what must be modernized, the scope and sequence of the modernization project, and the compliance requirements.
During the modernization project, your elevator will be out of service. Modernization projects typically last between 8 and 12 weeks; however, an elevator company can provide you with a more accurate timeline for your particular project.
The average lifespan of an elevator is between 20 and 25 years. If you are experiencing any of the aforementioned issues and your elevator is approaching its second decade of service, it may be time to install a new elevator.
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