FAQs...

How much energy will my elevator consume?

Every Elevator Specialties Elevator utilizes states-of-the-art microprocessor controls coupled with a roped-hydraulic driving machine. The controller utilizes a highly efficient switch mode power supply with dynamic power factor correction. It also incorporates automatic cab light controls which ensure that all lights are extinguished sixty seconds after all pending calls have been completed. In addition, one of the major benefits of a hydraulic driving machine is that the pump is only energized for operation in the up direction. The net result is an extremely efficient elevator. Based on average usage (ten 20 second trips daily), and a typical energy cost of 11.5 cents per kWh, the total cost to run our elevator is estimated at under 10 cents per day!

What is a roped-hydraulic driving machine?

The term roped-hydraulic refers to an elevator that utilizes a combination of traction grade steel ropes (cables) and a hydraulic jack and power unit to convert energy into motion. Hydraulics are used extensively in low-rise commercial applications and provide exceptional performance. Traditionally, their major detriment was the fact that the hydraulic jack had to be buried to a depth equal to that of the rise (travel) of the elevator. The addition of a drive sheave with traction grade steel ropes, however, solved that issue by allowing elevator to move twice the distance of the jack. As such, roped hydraulics are well suited to residential applications, particularly in instances where optimal performance is required.

Are residential elevators limited in size?

Residential elevators are limited in size by two factors. The area of the platform occupied by passengers cannot exceed 15 sq ft based on ASME a17.1 requirements. The height of the cab is restricted by overhead space at the top landing and physical restrictions of the car frame. Elevator Specialties standard cab size is 12 sq ft (3' x 4') with a 6' 8" ceiling. Cab height can be customized up to a maximum of 8'.

What safety features are included?

All residential elevators are required to have a certain number of safety features as governed by code. Every Elevator Specialties elevator is equipped with the following safety devices: Slack rope safeties, slack rope switch, rupture valve, negative pressure switch, hoistway door interlocks, car gate switch, in car stop switch, upper and lower normal limits, and motor thermal overload.

What happens in the event of a power outage?

Every elevator specialties elevator includes features designed to compensate for power outages. In the event of a power outage, our controller automatically reverts to battery powered operation. In this mode, the controller will extinguish all unnecessary light sources to conserve power; illuminate every button in the car operating panel to provide in-car emergency lighting; and finally, it will lower, level and stop at the next available landing.