A Guide to Buying Elevators There are many factors to consider when purchasing an elevator. This article offers guidance to help you choose a system to suit your needs and budget. Whether for residential or commercial purposes, elevators are in great demand today and regarded as more of a convenience than a luxury. Leading manufacturers offer different types of models to suit the needs of users, especially of people with mobility issues, and choosing an appropriate model for a home or public space could prove quite complex. This article is intended to serve as a guide to buying elevators. Find a Reliable Elevator Company The first step towards elevator purchase is choosing the right supplier with a good track record. Only a reliable elevator company can offer you a wide choice of products from leading manufacturers. The right company would also provide you the best customer service and the assistance of experts to guide you on choosing a suitable model that can meet your requirements. Here are the points that you need to discuss to make the right choice: >> Convey your space constraints and purpose: If your home has space limitations, you should mention this at the outset. A reliable firm would have expert technicians assess your site and suggest a space-saving model such as a pitless elevator. You should also remember if the model you choose requires structural modifications for installation, your costs would go up. So remember to convey your budget constraints too. Elevators are generally expensive, but if you are purchasing one out of medical necessity, look for a supplier that offers special pricing for such needs. If you are buying a commercial elevator for a building that has three floors or less, consider an economically priced limited use/limited application (LULA) model which offers the benefits of a regular model. >> Specify required cab size and load capacity: The cab size and load capacity requirements need to be specified. If the system has to carry a wheel chair user, then choose a model that has capacity for the same. Models with a load capacity of 1000 lbs are the right choice if you want to use the elevator to shift heavy items up and down your home. >> Choose the right drive system: Opt for a suitable drive system that can meet your building structural specifications. Choices include winding drum, roped-hydraulic and gearless models. A winding drum elevator does not need a machine room. Construction and installation costs could be reduced and space saved on a machine room by opting for chain drive models. A smooth riding is ensured with roped hydraulic systems as the piston and pulley are connected to a hydraulic pump. In multilevel buildings, pit-less systems are the ideal choice for easy installation. >> Check out safety features: Most elevators come with standard safety features but you need to check them out all the same. Prime consideration must be given to the inclusion of an emergency alarm, door interlocks, in-cab telephone, slack chain brake system, automated controls, and power failure back up.
>> Custom options: If you want your home elevator to blend with your interior, look at models with many customization options. In addition to floors and ceilings, custom options are available for hand rails and fixtures. Avoid Compliance Issues There are various rules and regulations governing the construction and installation of home elevators. Purchase your system from an elevator company that can ensure this. The right firm will offer installation to meet state and local codes as well as periodic inspections and testing to ensure compliance with safety standards. Make sure that the elevator supplier also offers timely repair and maintenance services including emergency on-call service.