Elevators typically have a lifespan of 25 years. Elevators’ constant problems indicate that they are nearing the end of their lives. Your elevator contractor may also use words/phrases like “obsolete” and “no longer manufactured.” When you reach this point, you know it’s time to think about modernization.
As the elevator ages, there will be more downtime and callbacks than ever before for the best lift companies. We always advise our clients to obtain a modernization quote at this time to avoid an emergency shutdown. Most parts take 6-12 weeks to arrive, so if no planning is done, your elevator could be out of commission for several months. This can be extremely stressful for building managers, owners, residents, and staff.
The following are the fundamentals of what is involved in modernizing your elevator equipment.
1. MODERNIZATION OF CONTROLLER
There are numerous advantages to modernizing your controller. New controllers are software-based and have LCD screens that allow technicians to plug in a tool to understand what faults the elevator is displaying and can quickly and easily help them pinpoint issues when troubleshooting, saving the tech time and, as a result, saving customers money. The controllers from PEAK are non-proprietary and easy to install and troubleshoot.
2. SUBMERSIBLE HYDRAULIC POWER UNIT
The older power units are known as “dry-mount” power units. Dry-mount power units have all of the equipment, including the pump motor and valve, on the bottom of the tank, with the oil sitting above the components. This leaves a lot of room for error.
These are not only loud, but they also allow oil to leak from the parts all over the machine room floor, causing quite a commotion. We now install what is known as a submersible power unit during modernization. This means the pump motor and valve are completely submerged in oil. They are much quieter, and if any component leaks, the oil will return to the tank, preventing a total machine room disaster.
3. CAB IMPROVEMENT
A run-down and unsightly cab may persuade prospective tenants or clients to look elsewhere. Although mechanical repairs and improvements are the top priorities for a property manager, cab maintenance and upgrades can help prevent accidents or lawsuits. A shattered handrail or a pitted floor can lead to a fall or serious injury. Cab modernization includes the following upgrades:
- New Carpeting
- Lighting Improvements
- New Panels and Controls
- Handrails have been replaced.
- Replacement of doors and cladding
- New Ceiling
These are only a few of the components of modernization. Please contact us for a free on-site consultation if you would like a complete list of what is included or a budgetary modernization proposal. Sigma Elevator is a great elevator manufacturer in India that will provide you with a complete cost estimate so that you can begin to better plan for the elevator and avoid these unneeded surprises and downtime.
