How Cabled Elevators Work How Hydraulic Elevators Work
Elevator Maintenance & Testing
Stacked condominiums have two types of elevators depending on the height of the building. Because of their importance in getting people to upper floors, especially the elderly and those with disabilities, HOAs must plan for regular annual maintenance and inspections. In addition, they must reserve for future renovations of their elevator systems.
There are two kinds of elevators depending on the height of the building: hydraulic and cabled (also called traction elevators). Hydraulic elevators are found in lowrise buildings less than 5-stories tall. Hydraulic equipment is located in a pit underneath the elevator, which raises and lowers the elevator on a piston. Highrise buildings use cable systems powered by an electric motor located on the roof. Machinery lifts the cab, which is counterbalanced by a weight.
Maintenance is extremely important. Boards should enter into full maintenance contracts that cover all components of the system. The cost of replacing poorly maintained equipment is quite high and can be avoided with regular maintenance that keeps it running smoothly and extends its useful life. California’s Department of Industrial Relations requires annual inspections of elevators.
Modernizing Elevators
The average lifespan of an elevator is approximately 25 years. If an association fails to reserve for their replacement, it can result in large special assessments. It can cost up to $300,000 to replace a single elevator cab and all related equipment. When an elevator reaches the end of its useful life, it needs to be modernized. It means bringing everything to code. This includes electrical components, motors, controllers, door systems, and adding HVAC in elevator machine rooms because everything is now microprocessor-based,
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