Review of elevator performance
An elevator is an extremely complex component of a building with hundreds of parts that require maintenance. One of the most important aspects of maintenance is to ensure that the elevator functions as it was originally designed. A routine elevator performance checklist includes:
- Operation: whether the elevator service is adequate for current passenger loads
- Passenger satisfaction: do passengers complain about long waiting time at the lobby, overcrowding or malfunctioning equipment?
- Performance: does current elevator performance compare favorably when it was initially installed? Have insurance inspectors and maintenance contractors suggested elevator modernization?
- Safety features: is the elevator in compliance with existing safety codes? Will the emergency alarms, lighting and two-way communication systems function during an emergency?
- Doors: do the doors operate noisily? Are there complaints received from passengers regarding the proper function of doors?
- Fixtures: do the hall and elevator lights and floor indicators function properly including the overhead lights and ventilation systems?
- Leveling: does the elevator level on each stop so that passengers won’t trip?
- Noise: are there squeaks and scrapes when the elevator is running?
- Starting and stopping: do the elevators hesitate at floors even when passengers have continuously pressed on the up and down buttons?
In order to determine the elevator’s performance, it is important to measure floor-to-floor travel time, ride quality, vibration levels, noise levels, door closing time and passenger response times within a 6-month or 12-month period. Periodic review will indicate whether the need for elevator modernization is required since proper maintenance alone no longer suffices. Elevator system reviews is often conducted through elevator consultants so that areas can be outlined for elevator upgrades. The elevator consultants can resolve any uncertainties about the need for elevator modernization after assessing the elevator performance and its capabilities.
Assessing the cost of elevator upgrades
It is important to take into consideration the cost of elevator modernization in comparison to the value of the property. If the reason why you want to handle elevator upgrades is to increase the property value prior to sale, a better choice will be maintenance and service repairs and leave elevator modernization to the buyer. It would be important to check beforehand with the elevator manufacturer on the availability of components to determine how long you will be able to service the elevator without upgrading. However, if there are no plans to put the property in the market, the investment on elevator modernization will be offset by the savings in energy consumption. Energy efficiency is one of the best justifications for elevator modernization.