Modernization

Elevator Modernization Is a Critical Part of an Elevator’s Life Cycle

Elevators can be serviced and repaired for many years, but at some point in time the elevator equipment exceeds its useful life, resulting in increasing failure rates, heightened ownership liability, possible safety hazards, and dated appearance.

At Elevator Technology, Inc. (ETI) we define an elevator modernization as a means of updating the key parts of the elevator to improve safety, performance, reliability, energy efficiency, and often aesthetics. Based on budget and client preference, it may or may not include updating the elevator cab interior. While some portion of an elevator system may be retained, such as building guide rails or cab shell, most of the major operating components and subsystems need to be periodically updated and replaced to provide a renewed useful life for the elevator system.

Each full modernization project is different based on the age and condition of the elevator’s key components. An elevator modernization generally involves replacing the following:

  • Controller – the “brains” of an elevator system
  • Hydraulic Power Unit (if applicable) - the reservoir containing hydraulic oil, motor, pump, and main control valve
  • Fixtures – car operating panel, hall fixtures, buttons, lighting
  • Door equipment – door operator, roller guides, tracks, all of which enable smooth opening and closing (most elevator shutdowns are door related)
  • Elevator machine (if applicable) – the motor that drives the elevator
  • Suspension means (if applicable) – hoist cables for traction elevators
  • Hydraulic Cylinder & Piston (if applicable) – for older hydraulic elevators this is the hydraulic jack that extends down into the ground below the elevator shaft
  • Safety systems – includes sensors that monitor car speed (governor) and position, as well as infrared door protection
  • Cab Interior (optional) – the aesthetics of the elevator interior including, walls panels and ceilings.

When Should I Modernize My Elevator?

Elevator modernization is primarily driven by the elevator age, condition, obsolescence, and budget.

While industry consensus for an elevator’s Useful Life varies based on several factors, the average life span for elevators is as follows:

  • Hydraulic Elevators: 20-25 Years
  • Traction Elevators: 25-30 Years
  • Machine Room-Less Elevators: 20 Years

Let us provide you with a free Elevator Condition Assessment and Recommendations Report which will outline both short and long-term needs and recommendation for each elevator in your portfolio. Call us today to schedule a time for us to meet you and assess your elevator(s).

What Are the Benefits of Modernizing?

Elevator modernization will reduce building owner and management liability, improve reliability and ride quality, reduce operating costs for both service and repair, provide better and timelier access to replacement parts and circuit boards, reduce energy consumption, and improve tenant relations and building desirability.

Elevator Modernization Cost and Timelines

The cost of an elevator modernization varies widely based on the existing equipment and final project scope, ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 per elevator.  Project lead times can range from 6 months to 1 year or longer when accounting for all the phases of a modernization project:

  • Contract, Scope Development, Submittal and Submittal Approval
  • Custom Material Manufacturing
  • Installation (Down-time)
  • State of California Final Acceptance Inspection