If you think of fancy high rises and expensive mechanical rooms when you hear the term “commercial elevator,” you’re not alone. One of the most common misconceptions about commercial elevators is that they’re only necessary in downtown offices with tons of stories to cover. In reality, low-rise elevators are a crucial part of keeping public buildings like clinics, schools and small offices accessible for everyone.
At RAM Elevators + Lifts, we know just how important commercial elevator solutions are, and are proud to offer industry-leading products to clients across North America through our trusted dealer network. We’re also passionate about dispelling the many rumours that can discourage people who would benefit from solutions from looking into low-rise options.
Discover the five biggest myths about commercial elevators for low-rise buildings—and the facts that make them a smart investment—below!
1. Myth: Commercial Elevators Require an Exterior Machine Room
The most persistent rumour in the industry is that an elevator requires you to give up valuable square footage for a bulky pump and tank system. While this may have been true decades ago, and even persists with dealers that use outdated practices, RAM specializes in Machine-Room-Less (MRL) designs. By housing the entire drive system directly within the hoistway, we save building owners significant floor space. This MRL engineering advantage is a game-changer for small commercial retrofits, where every square foot counts and can help make installing an elevator a feasible reality in almost every space.
2. Myth: Pit Construction Always Means Deep Excavation
Many property owners fear that a commercial lift requires a four-foot-deep concrete pit that interferes with underground utilities. This is an understandable concern, especially if you’re in an older building where digging may not be feasible for the overall structural foundation. Thankfully, there’s no need to worry! RAM offers pitless and shallow-pit designs that require only a 3-inch ramp or a minimal recess in the floor. This minimizes structural disruption and is ideal for existing buildings where digging a deep pit is physically impossible or cost-prohibitive.
3. Myth: All Commercial Lifts Use Noisy Hydraulic Systems
Older hydraulic models earned a reputation for being loud and having an unpleasant smell due to their oil-based drive. Because our commercial systems are fluid-free, they provide a whisper-quiet, smooth ride without the petrochemical odours that may pose a challenge otherwise. This supports a cleaner professional environment for any space, including dental offices, clinics, and educational facilities.
4. Myth: High-Performance Lifts Are Only for High-Rise Projects
One of the most surprising myths is the misconception that smaller, low-rise buildings should settle for lower-quality equipment. At RAM, we believe reliability is universal. Every unit is built and tested in North America to the highest standards, and we full-load test our systems to 125% of their rated capacity before they leave our factory to ensure they meet the highest machinery reliability standards. For a business owner, this means fewer service calls and a more dependable asset for their guests.
5. Myth: Compliance Is a Long, Stressful Construction Process
With no machine room and no deep pit to dig, the “on-site” time for an installation is much shorter than most people expect. We support our North American dealer network with products that arrive ready for a streamlined setup and ensure that we partner with teams that are ready to stand by our products at every stage of their lifecycle. That means you’ll always have peace of mind and can trust our elevators to perform exactly as they should for as long as possible.
Your Reliable Partner for Inclusive Business
Ready to see how a commercial elevator fits your building?
CONTACT RAM ELEVATORS + LIFTS TODAY to connect with a local professional and explore the best vertical solutions for your business.