A commercial elevator in poor shape is a disaster waiting to happen. Regular maintenance can help to ensure you don’t encounter such a disaster. The moment you notice something wrong with the way your elevator functions is the moment you should call in the professionals. How will you know whether to repair or replace it? The professionals can help you make that decision, but the following are some ideas to consider.

Speed

The slowing speed of your elevator could mean one of two things. First, it could indicate components and moving parts that need a little elbow grease. Once they’ve been oiled or repaired, the machine should begin to run at regular speed. Second, it could indicate overuse. When this happens, it’s probably time for a replacement as the elevator has just gotten too old to run at peak performance.

Sounds

Every elevator makes certain noises that are considered normal. If you begin to hear something out of the ordinary, the machine might need immediate repair. If the repair doesn’t happen right away, more severe damage could occur, often leading to total replacement. Pay attention to the sounds your elevator makes so the clanks, bangs, and grinding can be taken care of in the most effective way possible.

Movement

The way your elevator moves can help you determine whether or not to repair or replace it as well. For example, a jolt or jerky movement upon beginning its descent or ascent could require a small repair to smooth it out. An elevator that stops at the wrong floor or leaves a couple of inches between it and the floor could require a replacement.

Whether your elevator needs a repair or replacement is best understood when left to the professionals. If you are concerned about the speed, sounds or movement of your commercial elevator, it’s time to contact Keystone Elevator at 781-277-4655 for an inspection.

An elevator that is out of order is almost always an inconvenience to tenants. Although there are likely good reasons for the temporary halt on elevator service, it is important to have open communication with those in your building in order to reduce issues. The following list will help when corresponding with others about a broken or unusable elevator.

Communicate openly

Open dialogue with your tenants is important when letting them know about an out of order elevator. There are many options for communication including talking in person, emailing or posting signs. Be clear about what elevator is down and notify tenants of an expected out of order elevator if possible.

State a Clear Time Frame

Let those around you know when you expect repairs to be done. Be honest about how long it will be until the elevator is up and running again. This is important especially for those who rely on this mode of transportation.
Explain Why

Explain to those who occupy the building why the elevator is out of order. People are much more understanding about an inconvenience if they have a solid reason why it is occurring. Did the elevator break unexpectedly or is it out of order for routine maintenance? Be honest and clear about the reasons.

Clearly Mark the Area

Elevators are essential in many buildings for transporting large items and many people. They are heavily relied on so it is important that anyone with access to an elevator can clearly see if it is not in use. Mark the area with a large sign including bold lettering. Include an expected date of when it will be running again. Add a picture of a map that can direct people to the nearest set of stairs or alternate elevator.

An out of order elevator is an inconvenience in Boston. If you are looking for quick and quality repairs to get yours up and running, then contact Keystone Elevator by calling 781-277-4655 today!

When an elevator is not working properly it is a major inconvenience, and some people may not be able to access certain floors of your building without it. It is vital to maintain elevators by scheduling routine maintenance and have a professional inspect the machinery. By doing this in your building, you reap several benefits.

You Prevent Frequent Repairs

Elevators rely on numerous components to work properly. If even one of these parts breaks down then the unit becomes inoperable. You do not want to have to put an “Out of Order” sign on your elevator even once. With routine maintenance, you avoid breakdowns because of a licensed professional that looks for anything that could cause problems.

You Guarantee Safety

Although elevator accidents are rare, they have been known to happen. People sometimes get seriously hurt if they are inside an elevator when it suddenly stops working. In certain cases, some people have spent hours inside an elevator until the proper authorities could let them out. This is especially concerning if someone needs medical attention and shows how important it is to maintain elevators in your building to prevent accidents. Without professional elevator maintenance, you could open your business up to lawsuits if a similar situation happens in your building.

You Prolong the Lifespan of the Elevator

Most elevators are designed to last about 20 years before they need to be replaced. Although that seems like a long time, you might get even longer use out of your elevator if you properly maintain it. With regular maintenance, there is no reason why your elevator would not be able to last 25 or 30 years. A total replacement is expensive, so you save your business a lot of money by repairing instead of replacing.

To schedule routine testing, inspecting and repairing, get in touch with the experts at Keystone Elevator. Contact us today at 781-277-4655 if it has been a while since your elevator has been serviced. With our help, your elevator will operate as it should, and continue getting people where they need to be within your business.