Some machinery requires maintenance and repairs to continue to perform efficiently. Others, if not properly maintained, can put lives at risk. The latter is undoubtedly true for elevators.
Shockingly, over 17,000 people are injured in elevator and escalator accidents each year. Property owners and landlords can’t afford to gamble with the safety of their tenants, customers, and visitors.
Needless to say, managing elevator maintenance and repairs is imperative. This is all the more important now the end of the pandemic is promising a new influx of occupiers.
Many properties and facility managers find it challenging to identify the best elevator installers and repairers for their job. Frequently, they don’t know what to expect from providers and how to avoid common pitfalls.
So below, we’ve outlined how to identify reliable experts for any elevator project.
Let’s get down to business…
What Do Elevator Technicians That Specialize in Installation Do?
Finding a suitable elevator company in the local area can be difficult. There are often many options available that offer similar products and services.
But, not all companies are similarly equipped to handle the jobs they’re asked to do. The first step to finding the right installer is to understand the necessary expertise they need to show.
Elevator installers and repairers commonly do the following:
- Assemble elevator cars, including platforms, walls, and doors
- Connect the electrical wiring to the control panel and motor
- They test freshly installed equipment and ensure it meets specifications
- Troubleshoot malfunctions in the motor, switches, control system, and brake
- They can dismantle the elevator so that maintenance workers can change defective parts
- Keep service records of all repairs and maintenance
- Provide preventive maintenance and inspections. This ensures elevators follow safety regulations and building codes
- Return the elevator to fully operational status by repairing or replacing defective components
They also read blueprints to understand the layout of system components. As a result, they can select the right equipment for installation and repair.
Elevator installers and repairers conduct installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair work. This requires an in-depth knowledge of electricity, hydraulics, and electronics.
Many elevator systems function on computerized control systems. Elevator repairers have to be able to troubleshoot complex systems and understand the workings of the elevator.
Questions to Ask an Elevator Installer and Repairer
Building managers should carefully vet prospective elevator installers or repairers.
Then, they can interview elevator companies to find out more about their services. For this, they just need to know the right questions to ask.
How Many Technicians Manage How Many Elevators?
It’s good to know how many technicians an elevator service provider has in the local area. In theory, more technicians increase the likelihood of availability if an issue arises.
It’s also important to ask how many elevators each technician can manage on their route. A high number could actually mean bad news. Elevators need close and in-depth inspection where nothing’s left to chance.
A reliable elevator company should ensure technicians don’t have to hurry their work. Often, this is the case when technicians have too many jobs lined up for them to handle.
Usually, companies that do this are looking for a quick way to cut costs. Needless to say, this increases the likelihood of inferior quality work.
Is the Company Managing Similar Types of Elevators Already?
No matter the industry, evidence of experience is a good sign. For example, when evaluating an elevator service provider, check they’ve worked on similar projects.
This is especially important for premises that might have antiquated elevators on-site. These can be challenging to maintain as not everyone has the right spare parts available.
This is especially important for premises that might have antiquated elevators on-site. These parts can sometimes be challenging to maintain. Namely, because not everyone has the right spare parts available.
Common types of elevators include:
- Gearless and geared traction elevators
- Hydraulic elevators
- Hybrid of traction and hydraulic
- Elevators without machine rooms (MRL elevators)
- Pneumatic Elevators
- Climbing Elevators
- Industrial Elevators
…and more.
The bottom line: Check if your chosen elevator installer has experience with the right elevator type.
Is It Possible to Customize an Elevator to Suit Your Needs?
Customization enables you to install elevators that suit more exact needs. The elevator should blend in with its environment. By this, we mean it should boast matching flooring, walls, and ceiling.
The elevator should blend in with its environment. By this, we mean it should boast matching flooring, walls, and ceiling.
For example, elevators might need to blend in with a more classic look. Or, they may have to complement a more contemporary aesthetic.
The best elevator companies should explain their customization options to you. They should also showcase previous projects across various styles. This should give you a good idea of what’s possible.
How Do Elevator Repairers Handle Reports and Documentation?
The best elevator companies should provide detailed reports. These document elevator performance, maintenance, and repair data.
A company that can offer detailed reports and documentation always has the edge over those who don’t.
For one, they’re transparent with their work. But they’re also clearly interested in the long-term performance of their installation.
Documentation should include:
- Energy usage and efficiency
- Performance reviews for elevator equipment and service
- Preventive means for repairs and service failures
- A projection of repair and maintenance events and expenses
- Documents for litigation
- A strategic plan for development with potential modernization upgrades
Lastly, they should also handle safety compliance, risk assessments, and audits.
Are You Ready to Hire the Right Elevator Installer for Your Project?
More and more modern elevators connect to the Internet of Things (IoT). This allows for more complex computer controls and robust reporting capabilities.
Building managers may look for elevator companies that install modern reporting features. But, if elevators are older, ask the provider to handle documentation and maintenance instead.
For more information on hiring the right elevator installers, please feel free to contact us today – we’re always more than happy to help!
Island Elevator is Ready to Help!
Island Elevator is here to help you understand all facets of your Elevator Repair, Maintenance, & Modernization costs in the new year. Our team is here to help ensure your home and business vertical transportation equipment receive the regularly scheduled maintenance necessary to help you avoid a major catastrophe, reduce the possibility of a costly repair, and ensure the safety of your passengers, tenants, and family.