Stairs are one of the most common pain points of independent-living older adults. For those looking to age in place gracefully, this can be a natural point of contention. While there are numerous ways to overcome the challenge of stairs in an existing home, one option that’s quickly rising in popularity is the elevator. Home elevators provide a sophisticated way to get from one level to another, without sacrificing style or comfort. Even more fortunate is that nowadays, there are many different types of small elevators for homes—ideal for modern retrofits.
Read along with us here at RAM Elevators + Lifts, as we highlight some of the most common small elevators for homes. Let’s rise to a higher standard of elevated living, together.
Pneumatic Elevator
Pneumatic elevators, also known as vacuum elevators, are some of the most distinct-looking small elevators for homes. These tube-like lifts work by combining levels of pressurized air in the shaft to bring users between levels. Due to their unique vacuum pump-powered design, these elevators are relatively energy efficient. Thanks to its unique shape, these elevators offer riders 360-degree views of the home—fitting nicely into a different interior styles. Not to mention, these elevators typically require less maintenance visits due to their lack of mechanical parts.
That being said, pneumatic elevators may be too small for some homes. These elevators are often only accessible by one to two people at a given time, with a weight capacity of under 500 lbs.
Pitless Elevator
An elevator pit can be a drawback for many homeowners looking for an elevator retrofit. For many home elevators, a pit is needed underneath the shaft in order to house crucial components needed for operation. These elevator parts include counterweights in traction elevators, or cylinders in hydraulic elevators. But unfortunately for those with existing homes, the creation of this recessed base can prove challenging.
Some homes, especially those in a warmer climate, are built above concrete slabs. While excavation is possible, it can take significantly longer than a home without a concrete foundation. Other homes can have other existing obstructions in the way of the pit, like drainage lines, beams, or bedrock.
Pitless elevators eliminate the need to excavate a pit underneath the shaft. Instead, these components are typically built into the shaft, cab, or above the hoistway. Many modern small elevators for homes are offered in a pitless or minimal pit design. At RAM, our home elevators can either be installed completely pitless, or with a minimal 2” pit—allowing complete flexibility for homeowners.
Machine Room-less (MRL) Elevator
Machine Room-less (MRL) elevators are some of the most common types of small elevators in homes. Unlike full-size traditional elevators, these elevators work by housing all essential components within the hoistway. Everything, including the motor, drive system, and controllers, is self-contained thanks to this elevator’s compact design.
These small elevators for homes eliminate the need for a machine room. These are dedicated rooms which house electrical and mechanic components, which typically take up at least 150 and 200 square feet of space. In many existing homes, building out these rooms can prove challenging, as they must be nearby to the elevator. At RAM Elevators + Lifts, our small elevators for homes are all machine room-less. Our Stratus Elevators, Crystal Elevator, and Prism Elevator all utilize RAM’s minimal pit design to ensure a superior fit for nearly any home.
Find Your Dream Elevator with RAM
There’s a lot to finding the right small elevator for your home. The RAM team is here to support you on your journey. Visit our website, and reach out to us to learn more about our stunning home elevators—and find a dealer in your area. We can’t wait to help empower your decision to elevate your living space, together.