Top Ten Things a Home owner Should Know When Purchasing an Elevator

Download in PDF format.

1. Generally, when it comes to home elevators there are two types, hydraulic and traction.  Hydraulic elevators require an added room or space for the elevators control equipment and hydraulic reservoir typically called a "machine room" or" elevator room".  In residential homes there is no need to construct a specific room to house the controller and tank reservoir but they can fit easily into a space the size of a closet.  Hydraulic elevators also have a pump motor that if not properly isolated can become noisy and bothersome.  Traction elevators are becoming more popular in homes and are considered to be more of a greener alternative.  Gearless traction elevators do not require a designated "machine room" or "elevator room" in the house.  Traction elevators do not have oil reservoirs and the controllers for these elevators can be mounted between studs in a decorative cabinet virtually anywhere in your home.
   
   
2. Permits - Check with your local city or town building council and find out what permits are required for your elevator.  If you are hiring a contractor they will be able to assist you, and in most cases, obtain the proper permits for your elevator.
   
   
3. Finding the right contractor is important.  Elevator companies are not responsible for the construction of the shaft.  It is important that you as the home owner do your research when finding a contractor to build your elevator shaft.  Ask them to provide you with proof of liability insurance, proof that they are bonded, you could even ask them if they have constructed an elevator shaft before?
   
   
4. Most residential elevator companies do not have certified elevator mechanic's installing their lifts.  If this is a concern, you may feel obliged to ask your company of choice if they are providing you with a certified mechanic to install your lift.
   
   
5. Home elevators can take up less space than a stairway, in fact, you are more likely to be injured while using the stairs than riding in an elevator.  The movie industry has been able to take advantage of people's unawareness of elevators in showing acts or scenes which simply cannot happen due to the safety mechanisms that are in place.  In fact, elevators are a safe means of transportation.
   
   
6. Home elevators may have a battery backup or some other means of escape that you do not require an elevator mechanic to free you from the elevator in case of entrapment.  If your elevator has a battery backup and there is a power failure in your home, a battery backup system will "kick in" and you will be able to run the elevator to the next designated floor allowing the doors to open and enabling you to exit the elevator safely.
   
   
7. There is very little maintenance required when it comes to home elevators.  In fact, depending on the quality of the installation there may be virtually no maintenance required at all.
   
   
8. A residential elevator has been estimated to increase the value of a home by up to 10%. Elevator interiors can be customized to the interior of your home thus maintaining the architectural integrity of your home.
   
   
9. Most elevators require a pit.  This is a continuation of the elevator shaft below ground level or below the lowest floor landing of the building.  Pits may vary in depth and are dependent on the speed of the elevator.
   
   
10. The installation of home elevators in Alberta are governed under the B-613 code and do not require an inspection.  If an inspection is important to you, you may contact AEDARSA.  AEDARSA is the Alberta Elevating Devices & Amusement Rides Safety Association.  Phone (403)-216-5750.