October 17, 2024

5 Signs That Your Lift Needs an Upgrade

Ensuring that your lift system is up to date is crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and user satisfaction. Lifts are integral components in both commercial and residential buildings, facilitating movement and accessibility. However, as lifts age, they may exhibit signs that indicate the need for an upgrade or refurbishment or the technical term we use in the industry, lift modernisation. In this article, we will explore five key signs that your lift may be ready for an upgrade, along with insights into the benefits of modernising your lift and the importance of regular lift maintenance.

 

What are the signs that your lift is ready for an upgrade?

Identifying increased lift breakdown frequency

Another tell tale sign that your lift may need an upgrade is an increase in lift breakdown incidents. Older lifts often suffer from mechanical failures and electrical issues that can lead to inconvenient breakdowns. If you are experiencing recurring lift breakdowns, it is vital to assess the reliability of your lift system. Frequent outages not only disrupt daily operations but can also lead to safety hazards, especially in busy commercial environments. If your lift has become unreliable, it may be time to consider installing a new lift or upgrading your existing lift components.

Recognising outdated lift systems

As technology advances, so do the standards and features of lift systems. If your lift is an older model, it may lack modern safety features and efficiency standards that current lifts are designed to meet. Recognising outdated lift systems is crucial for ensuring that your building complies with current safety regulations. An upgrade may involve replacing older lifts with modern solutions that offer improved safety features, enhanced user experiences, and greater energy efficiency. If your lift system hesitates to keep pace with these advancements, it is likely time to consider a refurbishment.

How can you tell if your lift needs refurbishment?

Evaluating the performance of your lift

Evaluating the maintenance reports issued by your chosen lift contractor will indicate the performance of your lift and is a critical step in determining whether lift refurbishment is necessary. It is critical you keep hold of all documents obtaining to each lift maintenance sent to you by your chosen provider.
Any significant degradation in performance can indicate that the lift is not meeting operational expectations and may require immediate attention. Regular performance evaluations can help identify these issues early on, ensuring that your lift continues to operate safely and effectively.

Assessing safety regulations compliance

Compliance with UK lift safety regulations is a non-negotiable aspect of lift operation. As regulations evolve, older lifts may not meet the current standards set forth for safety. Your chosen lift contractor should bring this to your attention.

To assess whether your lift complies, it is essential to have a qualified lift engineer conduct a thorough evaluation of its components and operational features. If your lift lacks essential safety features or fails to meet current safety regulations, it is crucial to consider an upgrade. Not only can non-compliance lead to potential legal issues, but it can also jeopardise the safety of users. Regularly reviewing safety compliance is extremely important to ensure you lift meets all safety requires which will help you keep your lift passengers safe.  At VM Elevators this would be carried out as part of our lift maintenance contract packages.

Signs of wear and tear in lift components

All mechanical systems, including lifts, are subject to wear and tear over time. Signs of deterioration may arise from regular use, misuse, overloading, or damage to control panels and buttons. Regular lift maintenance allows these issues to be identified and resolved promptly. Depending on the lift’s make, model, age, and type, your maintenance provider can implement refurbishment or upgrades to prevent more significant problems in the future. This highlights the critical importance of routine inspections and maintenance to ensure your lift remains operational.”

What are the common benefits of lift modernisation?

Improved energy efficiency and reduced operational costs

One of the most significant benefits of lift modernisation is the improvement in energy efficiency. Published in March 2015, ISO 25745 is the global standard for energy calculation and classification of lifts and escalators.
Newer lift systems are designed to consume less energy, which can lead to substantial savings on operational costs over time.
At VM Elevators energy efficiency one of our core values. All new installations are installed to the highest energy efficiency rating possible, which is A Class for lifts and A+++ for escalators, so by upgrading your lift, you can take advantage of advanced technologies that optimise energy consumption, such as regenerative drives and LED lighting and regenerative drives that capture the heat generated when the lift is in use and converts this into reusable energy. These upgrades not only reduce energy usage but also contribute to a greener building, aligning with sustainability goals. In turn, this can enhance your property’s marketability and appeal to environmentally conscious tenants.

Enhanced safety features and compliance

Another key advantage of modernising your lift is the enhancement of safety features. New lifts come equipped with advanced safety technologies that ensure compliance with the latest safety regulations. Features such as automatic emergency braking, better control systems, and advanced monitoring can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Upgrading your lift can provide peace of mind for both operators and users, knowing that the system meets the highest safety standards. This also reduces liability risks for building owners and managers.

Modern aesthetics and user experience

In addition to functional improvements, modern lift solutions offer enhanced aesthetics that can significantly improve user experience. Installing a new lift or refurbishing an old lift can transform its appearance, making it more inviting and visually appealing. Modern lifts often feature sleek designs, improved lighting, and user-friendly interfaces. These enhancements can create a positive impression on visitors and tenants alike, increasing overall satisfaction with the building’s amenities. A well-designed lift environment contributes to the overall experience of the occupants, making it an essential consideration for property owners.

How often should lift maintenance be conducted?

Recommended maintenance schedules for lifts

To ensure optimal performance and safety, regular lift maintenance is paramount. It is generally recommended that lifts undergo maintenance at least once every six months. However, the frequency can vary based on the type of lift—passenger lifts, goods lifts, and platform lifts may have different requirements. Establishing a reliable maintenance schedule with a trusted lift service provider will help keep your lift functioning smoothly and prolong its lifespan. Regular checks can identify potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs or dangerous breakdowns.
We have a full article on lift maintenance frequency.

Understanding the importance of regular lift service

One of the primary signs that your lift needs an upgrade is the frequency of service it requires. Regular lift service is essential for keeping your lift in optimal condition and ensuring safety compliance. If you find yourself scheduling frequent lift maintenance or repairs, it may indicate that your lift system is aging or that components are wearing out. Ensuring that your lift is well-maintained can prevent costly emergency lift repairs and extend the lifespan of the system. If your lift service provider frequently points out the need for repairs, this may be a clear sign that it’s time to consider modernising your lift.

Consequences of choosing not to have your lift properly maintained

As the owner or manager of a building with a lift or any vertical transportation system, you have a legal obligation to ensure it is properly maintained. The most effective way to guarantee that your lift is safe, reliable, and compliant with current regulations is to engage a qualified lift service provider. Adhering to a maintenance schedule is essential, as even non-contractual visits, such as one-off services, can lead to extended downtime, disrupting business operations and causing frustration for tenants. Additionally, neglecting maintenance and failing to meet safety regulations can expose building owners to legal liabilities. Therefore, maintaining a regular maintenance schedule is vital for the longevity and safety of your lift system.

Choosing the right lift modernisation company

Selecting the right lift modernisation company is a critical factor in maintaining your lift system. It is essential to choose a reputable company with a proven track record in lift upgrade services.

At VM Elevators, we specialise in modernising lift and escalator systems to meet today’s safety, performance, and aesthetic standards. Our expert Operations team evaluates your current vertical transportation setup and implements tailored, innovative solutions to boost efficiency and reliability. From upgrading control systems to fitting energy-efficient components, we ensure the smooth integration of modern technologies with minimal disruption to your operations. With a strong focus on sustainability and customer satisfaction, our modernisation services revitalise aging systems, optimising performance and enhancing the user experience