Like any other accessory or item you might be considering for your home, expected lifespan will be an important concept for any residential elevator. Those purchasing such items naturally want them to last for decades without issue, and today’s modern home elevators and lifts will absolutely do so — as long as they’re cared for and used in the proper ways, that is.

At A+ Elevators & Lifts, we’re proud to offer a wide range of home elevator products, from our electro-hydraulic system, direct gear, and many other options. We’re also happy to discuss themes like durability and long-term lifespan with clients, including the factors that play a role in determining this lifespan. Here are some of these factors, plus the areas where you can play a role in maximizing your home elevator’s useful lifespan.

Using Quality Brands and Manufacturers

First and foremost, it’s vital to ensure that you’re using a quality brand and manufacturer when it comes to your home elevator. Choosing a well-respected, reliable company is key to ensuring that your elevator will last for the long haul. When you work with A+ Elevators & Lifts, for example, you can be sure that you’re getting an industry-leading product from a team that’s passionate about customer satisfaction.

Proper Installation

A major factor that will influence your home elevator’s lifespan is how it’s installed. A professional installation is critical, as it will ensure that your elevator is aligned and stable, minimizing wear and tear on key components. Poor installation can lead to premature failure of crucial parts and systems, costing you time and money in the long run.

This area drives home the importance of working with qualified professionals when purchasing and installing a home elevator. Never attempt a DIY installation — not only will you likely end up doing more harm than good, but you may also void your warranty in the process, and you also risk your own safety in several ways.

Standard Maintenance

Another of the most important factors that will determine how long your home elevator will last is standard maintenance. Like all machines, home elevators require periodic care and tune-ups to function at their best and longest.

Generally speaking, this maintenance should be carried out by quality professionals with expertise in the elevator realm. Here are some of the areas they will cover on your behalf:

  • Inspecting for any worn-down or damaged parts, and replacing as needed
  • Checking the alignment of all moving parts
  • Cleaning and lubricating all moving parts
  • Testing the entire system to make sure it’s functioning properly

These are just a few of the many standard maintenance procedures that should be carried out in order to ensure your home elevator lasts as long as possible. Failing to carry out this maintenance can severely shorten your elevator’s lifespan, requiring costly and time-consuming repairs or replacements down the line.

At A+ Elevators & Lifts, we’re happy to offer quality service and repairs for all makes and models of home elevators. If you’re experiencing problems with your current system, or if you just want to schedule some routine maintenance, please don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance.

Your Role in Maintenance

While it’s important to have a professional carry out standard maintenance on your home elevator, there are also several things you can do as the owner to help prolong its lifespan. Here are a few key suggestions:

  • Regularly check the elevator for any visible damage or wear and tear
  • Keep it clean, both inside and out
  • Avoid letting objects or people obstruct the path of the elevator
  • Never try to repair or modify the elevator on your own

By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure your home elevator lasts for many years to come.

Frequency of Use

Naturally, like any other product where wear-and-tear is a normal part of the equation, the more often your home elevator is used, the shorter its lifespan will be. This isn’t to say you should avoid using your elevator altogether; rather, it’s important to be aware that regular use will cause some degree of wear and tear that needs to be factored into your overall maintenance plan.

If your home elevator is used only occasionally, it may last for many years without any major issues. However, if it’s used on a daily basis, you can expect it to need more frequent maintenance and have a shorter lifespan overall.

And of course, operating the lift properly with each use is key to preserving its condition. Be sure not to overload it, and always use the safety features in place.

Upgraded Features

Another major factor in the eventual lifespan of your home elevator: Whether you upgrade its features over time.

Adding new features and gadgets to your elevator will put more strain on its components, and can lead to an overall shorter lifespan. So if you’re considering a major upgrade, be sure to factor in how this will affect the overall life of your elevator.

Upgrades can range significantly in price and complexity, so it’s important to weigh all the pros and cons before making a decision. In some cases, upgrades might actually be required by law to keep your elevator up to code.

At A+ Elevators & Lifts, we’re always happy to help our clients make the best choices for their home elevators. We can provide advice on everything from features and upgrades, to routine maintenance and repairs.

For more on how to determine the expected useful lifespan of any home elevator, or to learn about our residential elevators or lifts, contact us today.