Is your retrofit residential elevator starting to show its age? Is it beginning to feel like less of an upgrade than it once did? While home elevators are fantastic home mobility solutions, even the most well-built ones eventually need to be updated.
Below, let’s dive into a few key signs that it may be time to replace your existing home elevator. Read on to learn more.
It’s Reaching the End of Its Lifespan
If your elevator is several years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Just like any system in your home, retrofit residential elevators have an expected lifespan that reflects how long they are likely to last. Once your elevator starts to edge closer to that range, performance-related issues may spring up more often.
Common elevator lifespans
- Hydraulic elevators: 20 to 25 years
- Traction (electric) elevators: 25 to 30+ years
- Pneumatic elevators: 15 to 20 years
It’s important to keep in mind that these are just general estimates, with the single biggest factor being regular maintenance. An elevator with consistent care will last longer than one serviced only when issues arise.
It Feels Unsafe to Use
Safety is never something to compromise on. And if you’re constantly hearing creaking or noticing slow response or sluggish controls, it’s difficult to feel comfortable using your elevator. The best way to tell if it’s no longer in usable condition is by keeping up with professional inspections. Your elevator technician can assess its condition and advise when an upgrade may be in order.
It No Longer Meets Your Needs
As time goes on, our needs change. That once comfortable elevator may not be what’s right for your home. For example, one of the most common reasons for an elevator upgrade is changing mobility needs. Over time, an older cab design may no longer fit a wheelchair, walker, or seated user comfortably, and a more accessible upgrade quickly stops feeling optional.
Repair Costs Keep Climbing
If your annual inspection feels more like a running tab than a check-up, it may be time to consider a replacement. Repair bills adding up faster than they used to often mean your elevator is sending you a message. Additionally, older elevators may require specialized parts that become harder to source over time, driving up parts costs.
Energy Bills Are Higher Than Expected
Older elevators weren’t built with today’s energy efficiency standards in mind. If you’ve noticed your electricity bills creeping up, your aging elevator could be the culprit. Modern retrofit residential elevators, on the other hand, prioritize advanced motor systems and energy-saving features. For example, the Crystal Elevator’s fully counterbalanced traction drive can reduce power consumption by up to 50% compared to similar systems.
It Doesn’t Match Your Home Anymore
Sometimes it’s not about the performance, but how well it fits the space. No one wants their home elevator to stand out for the wrong reasons. If you’re feeling like your elevator no longer matches the rest of your home, it may be time for an upgrade. At RAM, your home elevator shouldn’t just be high-quality; it should also look the part. That’s why we offer several car model design packages, allowing you to design an elevator that deserves its place in your home.
North-American-Made Home Mobility Solutions
At RAM Elevators + Lifts, we’re passionate about delivering high-quality home mobility solutions. We never compromise on safety, performance, and appearance, helping homeowners realize their vertical potential. Our modern elevators are built to comply with ASME and ADA requirements and safety standards from the ground up.
We proudly serve cities throughout the U.S., including Tampa, Miami, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Seattle, and more.
Reach Your Vertical Potential with RAM
Since 1987, we’ve helped countless homeowners across North America start fully enjoying their homes once again through our award-winning accessibility solutions.
Start the conversation with the RAM team when you’re ready to explore your retrofit residential elevator options.