If you’ve decided to take the plunge into installing a residential or home elevator, you may have come across several different types of elevators. Two of the most popular are hydraulic home elevators and electric home elevators. How do these elevators work? How do they differ, and how do you decide which elevator is the right fit for your lifestyle, needs, and home?
Join us here at RAM Elevators + Lifts as we dive into the ins and outs of both electric and hydraulic home elevators. Let’s dive in.
How Hydraulic Elevators Work
Hydraulic elevators use a fluid-based, hydraulic system. They were among the first commercially available elevators introduced to the market in the mid-19th century. These elevators utilize a hydraulic pump and fluid controller to move the car up and down with pressurized fluid. As a result of this pumping, hydraulic elevators also typically operate louder than their electric counterparts.
Today, hydraulic elevators are still used in some older low- to mid-rise buildings.
How Electric Elevators Work
Electric home elevators, also known as traction elevators, operate using an electric motor-drive system. The first electric elevator was invented several decades after the hydraulic system, in the late 19th century. Though these elevators were formed using standard steel cables and iron pulleys, they laid the groundwork for future electric elevator systems.
Today, modern electric elevators use a series of advanced, integrated technologies to bring up the car using pulleys and counterweights. Electric elevators are widely used in both commercial and home spaces, thanks to their compact yet powerful design.
What Space Requirements are Needed?
The implications of choosing between an electric or hydraulic elevator extend beyond the drive systems themselves.The truth is, these elevators have distinct spatial requirements to be considered.
Hydraulic home elevators typically require more space to accommodate the entire pump unit. In many cases, this means a separate machine room. The electric motor system of electric elevators, on the other hand, is often offered in more compact models as the motor and counterweight system can more easily be placed within the hoistway or overhead clearance.
What Type of Maintenance Does Each Require?
While choosing the right elevator will ensure a smooth retrofit, understanding maintenance requirements will keep it operational for years to come. It’s important to understand that both hydraulic and electric home elevators will require maintenance.
A home elevator typically requires professional maintenance at least once a year. Hydraulic elevators will need their fluid components, such as hoses, seals, and fittings, to be inspected for leaks. Hydraulic systems will also need to have the oil periodically replaced; otherwise, it begins to degrade.
In contrast, maintenance for traction elevators will require tasks related to the electric drive system. While exact requirements vary by model, this often includes tasks such as inspecting counterweights and cables in the hoistway, as well as performing performance testing.
So, Which Option is Best For Your Home?
The choice between a hydraulic or electric home elevator is largely up to you. Home elevator owners across North America use both types of elevators. The best home elevator for you is decided from factors such as your available space, your home’s existing architecture, and your maintenance needs.
Here’s a quick-view chart of both options
| Factor | Hydraulic Elevators | Electric Elevators |
| Space Needed | Often requires more space for a machine room | Machine-room-less options allow equipment to be integrated in the hoistway |
| Noise | Typically louder during operation due to the pump | Quieter day-to-day operation with smoother movement |
| Maintenance | Often requires more maintenance due to fluid components | Maintenance is still necessary, but often less intensive |
| Cost | Varied, but installation costs can be lower | Varied, but typically higher upfront costs |
Both types of elevators remain in use today, though many homeowners often prioritize a smoother ride, quieter operation, and long-term efficiency.
At RAM, we believe the benefits of electric systems outweigh those of hydraulic systems. That’s why all of our home and commercial systems utilize our RAM all-electric drive system. From the stunning Stratus to the all-glass Prism, our elevators are designed to elevate your home from every level.
Elevate Your Everyday with RAM
Since our establishment nearly 40 years ago, RAM Elevators + Lifts has grown into an industry leader in home and commercial mobility. To date, we’ve helped make over 35,000 buildings more accessible—with a goal of adding 10,000 more by 2028. Explore our selection of home elevators and start the conversation with our team today.