July 28, 2025

Choosing a Lift System – A Hydraulic or Traction Elevator? 

When choosing a lift system, understanding the differences between hydraulic and traction lifts is essential for ensuring safety, reliability, and environmental sustainability. At VM Elevators, we provide expert maintenance services for both lift types across London, Essex, and the Southeast, helping facilities managers and developers make informed decisions. 

Hydraulic Lift vs Traction Lift: Why Sustainability Matters 

Hydraulic lifts, while reliable for low-rise buildings and freight transport, have significant environmental risks due to their reliance on hydraulic fluid and sensitivity to temperature changes. These factors, combined with frequent maintenance needs, are driving a shift toward traction lifts, particularly machine-room-less (MRL) designs, which offer superior energy efficiency and sustainability. 

What is a Hydraulic Lift? 

A hydraulic lift uses a piston powered by pressurised hydraulic fluid to move the lift car. Commonly used in low to mid-rise buildings, hydraulic lifts are ideal for freight due to their robust load capacity and smooth operation. However, their environmental impact, temperature sensitivity, and high maintenance demands are notable drawbacks. 

Hydraulic Lift Maintenance Requirements 

  • Fluid Management: Regular inspection and replacement of hydraulic fluid to prevent leaks, which pose environmental risks. 
  • Pump and Valve Maintenance: Frequent calibration of pumps and valves to ensure smooth operation. 
  • Safety Systems: Rigorous testing of emergency brakes, door sensors, and other components for compliance. 
  • Pit Maintenance: Routine cleaning and inspection to manage potential fluid leaks, often requiring pit pumps. 

What is a Traction Lift? 

Traction lifts operate using steel ropes, pulleys, and counterweights, with modern MRL designs integrating components within the lift shaft. These lifts are highly efficient, sustainable, and versatile, making them ideal for mid to high-rise buildings. 

Traction Lift Maintenance Requirements 

  • Rope and Pulley Care: Periodic inspection and lubrication to maintain smooth operation. 
  • Motor and Gear Maintenance: Regular upkeep of gearboxes or motor inspections, depending on the design. 
  • Efficiency Optimisation: Precision maintenance to sustain energy-efficient lift systems. 
  • Regulatory Compliance: Routine testing of overspeed governors, interlocks, and safety systems to meet standards. 

Why Traction Lifts Are Replacing Hydraulic Lifts 

Traction lifts, especially MRL designs, are increasingly preferred over hydraulic lifts due to their numerous advantages: 

  • No Hydraulic Fluid: Eliminates the risk of fluid leaks, making them a sustainable lift technology. 
  • Energy Efficiency: Traction lifts consume less power, reducing operational costs. 
  • Temperature Resilience: Performs reliably in extreme weather, unlike hydraulic lifts. 
  • Compact Design: MRL traction lifts save space, ideal for modern buildings. 
  • Longer Lifespan: Durable components reduce long-term maintenance costs. 
  • Enhanced Performance: Faster and smoother operation for high-rise applications. 

Hydraulic vs Traction Lifts: A Detailed Comparison 

Factor Hydraulic Lift Traction Lift 
Complexity Potentially more callouts in extreme weather conditions – hot/cold. Fewer callouts and downtime; smoother upkeep with MRL designs. 
Building Suitability Best for low-rise or freight applications. Ideal for mid to high-rise buildings. 
Environmental Impact Risk of fluid leaks; less eco-friendly. Greener; no hydraulic fluid required. 
Temperature Sensitivity Sensitive to weather changes; fluid issues in extreme conditions. Stable performance in all conditions. 
Energy Efficiency Higher energy consumption. Energy-efficient, especially MRL designs. 
Lifespan Shorter due to fluid and pump wear. Longer due to durable components. 

Elevator Maintenance Comparison: Why Choose Traction? 

The elevator maintenance comparison highlights traction lifts as the superior choice for modern buildings. Hydraulic lift servicing issues, such as fluid leaks and temperature sensitivity, lead to higher maintenance costs and environmental risks. Traction lift benefits include lower energy consumption, reduced maintenance frequency, and compliance with sustainability goals, making them the future of lift technology. 

Why Choose VM Elevators? 

At VM Elevators, we specialise in hydraulic lift servicing and traction lift maintenance, offering tailored maintenance contracts to suit your lift type and usage. Our services ensure safety, compliance, and optimal performance across London, Essex, and the Southeast. We also provide: 

Contact VM Elevators 

For expert advice on sustainable lift technology or to schedule maintenance, contact VM Elevators at 0800 448 8615 or visit vmelevators.com/get-quote. Let us help you optimise your lift system for safety, efficiency, and sustainability. 

Previous: VM Elevators | Luxury Lifts vs...