Are you in the market for a reliable, practical retrofit elevator to age in place? Or maybe you’re interested in upping your home’s resale value with standout features? If so, you’ve likely come across many different types of elevators, including hydraulic elevators. But are hydraulic elevators a good fit for existing homes? What factors come into play when retrofitting an elevator?
In this short blog with RAM Elevators + Lifts, let’s explore the ins and outs of retrofit hydraulic elevators, if they’re worth it, and if there are any alternatives. Dive in with us below!
How Hydraulic Elevators Work
Hydraulic elevators were among the first commercially adopted systems, first introduced in the mid-19th century. Over the years, they’ve kept a relatively similar, fundamental design. Hydraulic elevators use a cylinder installed below the cab to raise and lower the elevator. This is all done with the hydraulic pump and controller, which pushes incompressible fluid in and out of the cylinder.
This is different from pneumatic elevators, which use air pressure, or traction elevators that are powered by electric motors.
What Hydraulic Elevators Require
While relatively simple in overall design, hydraulic elevators have specific requirements for safe, proper installation.
Many traditional hydraulic models, especially older models, require a machine room. This is a separate space, typically adjacent to the elevator, in a nearby supply closet or an unused area. While exact dimensions depend on the elevator model and the space itself, a usable machine room is typically at least 25 square feet.
While not specific to hydraulic elevators, many also require a pit. An elevator pit is an excavated section below the lowest landing. In most hydraulic home elevators, it’s necessary to house essential components, such as the hydraulic cylinders, car buffers, and other operational equipment that can’t be placed within the shaft or elevator room.
Not all existing homes have the necessary space for these additional features. When selecting the right retrofit elevator model, it’s crucial to choose one that fits without requiring significant changes to the home’s existing structure. Otherwise, you risk costly excavation and site preparation, extensive planning, and long-lasting timelines.
Are Hydraulic Elevators Worth Installing?
Hydraulic elevators are still used today. These elevators can be found throughout North America, especially in older low-rise commercial buildings. That said, there is significant variation among hydraulic elevators. Some models require a deep pit, an elevator room, or substantial housing to hide noise or odours. Additionally, hydraulic elevators rely on older technology principles that may not always fit in existing homes with widely varied layouts.
As a result, those seeking a simple-to-retrofit elevator may want to consider alternative elevator options.
So, what do we recommend?
A More Practical Choice For Retrofits
At RAM Elevators + Lifts, the choice is simple. To us, electric systems provide an unparalleled experience from start to finish, especially for existing homes.
That’s why we utilize our patented all-electric drive system in all of our elevators and wheelchair lifts. From the everyday Stratus to the luxury Prism, our elevators offer compact yet high-performance solutions at every level. RAM elevators are ideal for retrofitting, with compact machine-room-less and limited-pit designs.
Find the Right Fit with RAM
Ultimately, the right retrofit elevator is one that fits your home’s layout and your long-term needs. Every home is unique, with its own layout, features, and quirks. With nearly 40 years of experience and over 35,000 buildings made more accessible, RAM brings proven expertise to every home mobility solution.
Request a quote or reach out to us to learn more about finding a home elevator you’ll love for years to come.