Tag Archives: Elevator Consultant

How Regular Maintenance Can Prolong the Lifespan of Elevators

Elevator maintenance is essential, and it plays a key role to an elevator’s lifespan. Regular maintenance can ensure that elevators, escalators, lifts, and dumbwaiters will continue to operate safely and reliably. Regular maintenance will not only address immediate issues, it will also significantly contribute to prolonging the lifespan of the elevators. Elevator service providers will perform the maintenance; however, it is the owners of the buildings, the property managers, or the building engineers that are responsible for making sure that the service providers are showing up and conducting the appropriate maintenance needed to achieve a desirable lifespan. An elevator consultant can provide guidance to the building that will ensure that service providers are showing up and taking the right steps to maintain and protect the lifespan of each lift. Let us look at why regular maintenance is crucial and how it can help extend the lifespan of elevators.

1. Identifying and Addressing Issues Early

Regular maintenance involves thorough surveying, analyzing, and servicing of elevator components. By conducting these routine checks, maintenance professionals can identify potential issues early on. A skilled service technician will know the different elevator manufacturers, and their knowledge is impeccable – as they understand what it takes to maintain elevators. Promptly identifying and addressing minor problems can prevent an issue from escalating into major and costly repairs down the line. Additionally, early detection of maintenance issues will help to ensure the safety of elevator passengers while minimizing any downtimes. When choosing a service provider, it is important to identify a company who has prior experience with the elevators or escalators in your building.

2. Preventing Wear and Tear

Due to incessant operation, elevators endure significant wear and tear. Regular maintenance should include lubrication, adjustment, and the cleaning of various components – such as the motor, gears, cables, and door mechanisms. These maintenance tasks will help to reduce friction, optimize performance, and prevent premature wear of critical elevator parts. ASME A17. 1 / CSA B44 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators has the actual code required intervals for elevator maintenance, and the elevator service technician should know what the equipment needs are, as well as what intervals are appropriate. By minimizing wear and tear, regular maintenance will ensure the smooth operation, while extending the lifespan of the elevators. Per code, buildings are required to keep and maintain consistent maintenance documents.

3. Enhancing Safety Features

Elevator safety is of paramount importance, and routine maintenance will ensure the proper functioning of crucial safety features – such as door sensors, emergency buttons, interlocks, and fire alarms. Faulty safety features can expose passengers to risks, and may lead to accidents or entrapments. Regular maintenance will ensure that these safety features are inspected, tested, and calibrated, while safeguarding their effectiveness and keeping them in compliance with all safety regulations. Elevator service technicians will know which safety mechanisms need to be maintained, and will do so according to the appropriate code requirements. There are monthly, annual, and five-year testing functions that must be performed on equipment, and additional tests may be required pending the authority having jurisdiction. The building needs to be knowledgeable in this area in order to make certain that these

tests are being completed and properly documented on a regular basis for the local authority having jurisdiction.

4. Upgrading and Modernizing Elevator Systems

Over time, technological advancements have brought about more efficient and advanced elevator systems. Replacing outdated or obsolete parts and incorporating new technologies can enhance elevator performance, improve energy efficiency, and optimize passenger experiences. Replacing some components may not only extend the lifespan of the elevators, but will add value to the buildings as well. When an elevator has reached the end of its lifespan, a building may have to modernize its equipment, which starts the whole life cycle over again. Elevators have numerous components, therefore -it may be possible to use items that have been refurbished or maintained based on the condition of the parts when it is time for modernization.

5. Complying with Regulatory Requirements

Elevator maintenance is not only about optimizing performance, but to also ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Regular maintenance helps to fulfill mandatory requirements that are imposed by regulatory authorities, and compliance will not only help a building avoid penalties, but will also ensure that its elevators are adhering to the highest safety and operational standards. This way, an authority having jurisdiction inspection will lead to the operator certification for the elevator, escalator, lift, or dumbwaiter to pass. Failed inspections are not desirable and are usually correlate with the lack of maintenance. If this happens, an elevator audit might need to be performed by an elevator consultant. A certificate of compliance is typically found in the cab of the elevator, or will available from the building manager.

Overall

Regular maintenance is an investment in the longevity and performance of elevators. By addressing issues early, preventing excessive wear and tear, enhancing safety features, upgrading components, and complying with regulations, regular maintenance will significantly prolong the lifespan of elevators. This will not only ensure the safety and satisfaction of elevator passengers, but will also minimize unexpected breakdowns, reduce repair costs, and add value to buildings. It is crucial to work with qualified elevator professionals including an elevator consultant who possess the expertise and experience needed to provide comprehensive and reliable maintenance services. Knowing the buildings equipment and aligning with the right service provider will make for a match to keep your equipment operating smoothly, while prolonging its life cycle.

Remember, with regular maintenance – elevators will continue to be a reliable and efficient mode of vertical transportation, serving occupants for years to come. If a building is uncertain about their maintenance requirements at any time, an elevator consulting firm can assist and answer any questions.

Reliability-Centered Maintenance for Elevators in Your Buildings

Elevator cmAs a building owner or property manager, you know the importance of maintaining your elevators in the best condition. Elevators play an essential role in modern buildings, and their fully functional operation is necessary for the safety and comfort of users. However, more than traditional maintenance methods may be required to keep your elevators running reliably and efficiently. Reliability Centered Maintenance is a methodology proven in numerous industries and may be an option for your buildings.

What is Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM) for Elevators?

Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM) is a highly effective approach to maintaining elevators that focuses on identifying and addressing potential failures before they occur, ensuring elevators operate safely and efficiently. There are several vital steps to take for RCM. One step is identifying the historical maintenance data and original equipment manufacturers (OEM) specifications. Another step is analyzing the various components of an elevator and identifying potential points of failure based on tlel information gathered. RCM allows for proactive maintenance and repairs, reducing downtime callbacks and minimizing costly repairs. RCM can also help extend the lifespan of elevators, saving building owners significant costs over time. For any building owner or manager looking to ensure the safety and reliability of their elevators, RCM can be another option than traditional break-fix or callback maintenance.

What are the Benefits of Reliability-Centered Maintenance for Elevators?

Adopting RCM for elevator maintenance offers several benefits for building owners and property managers. Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) is a powerful approach to maintenance management that emphasizes proactive measures to prevent equipment downtime, callbacks, and break-fix maintenance.

One significant benefit of RCM may be decreasing the break-fix maintenance. This approach can reduce unscheduled downtime, callbacks, and service interruptions that can inconvenience users. Organizations can minimize unplanned downtime by implementing a comprehensive maintenance plan that includes understanding the equipment, usage, and required maintenance. A building should always ensure its equipment is always in top working condition, which improves productivity and efficiency and reduces the risk of costly breakdowns and repairs.

Secondly, RCM reduces maintenance costs by optimizing task frequency and duration. By performing maintenance tasks at the right time, building owners and property managers can potentially mitigate the need for emergency repairs, extend the lifespan of equipment, and lower overall maintenance expenses.

Thirdly, RCM enhances safety and compliance by correctly ensuring equipment functions and addressing minor issues before they become more significant.

Behind-the-Scenes Value of Hiring an Elevator Consultant

Today, we are sharing an example that highlights the behind-the-scenes value of hiring an elevator consultant. Let’s set the stage – XYZ Building is a high-rise building located downtown with twenty-two elevators, managed by Mr. Jones. Mr. Jones has been struggling with increasing elevator maintenance costs and is frustrated by trying to decipher the elevator contracts from his service provider. He wants to hire an elevator consultant to provide impartial insight into the state of the building’s elevators, what is needed to improve them, understand how to navigate the service contract to be sure the building was getting what it paid for, and help with designing a plan moving forward.

If Mr. Jones were to hire an elevator consultant, they would first review the elevator service contract. During this review, they shed light on hidden costs and terms that favored the elevator service provider. The elevator consultant provides data that gives the building insights to eliminate unnecessary charges for the building, service providers’ responsibility, and increase services.

Next, the consultant would perform a thorough assessment of the elevators’ condition and identify areas for improvement. These recommendations can prolong the need for a costly elevator modernization or upgrade while improving efficiency and reducing breakdowns pending the equipment type.

Working from the elevator consultant’s recommendations, Mr. Jones would then implement an elevator maintenance action plan to include recording routine service to mitigate repairs. The goal of this plan would be to decrease elevator downtime and callbacks, reduce disruptions for tenants, and minimize the need for costly repairs.

In this scenario, Mr. Jones is also managing the elevator service provider, which leads to gaps in communication and delays in service. The elevator consultant will help streamline vendor management to ensure the contract is being adhered to by the service provider and that Mr. Jones is getting the service for which he is paying.

In addition, the elevator consultant will conduct an audit to ensure contract compliance to aid in passing the authority having jurisdiction inspections mitigating the risk of fines and legal expenses. Because an elevator consultant is an impartial expert, XYZ Building should experience significant cost savings and operational improvements when they implement an elevator consultant’s recommendations.

Hiring an elevator consultant is an expense for the building, that is true. However, it is an expense that can lead to substantial cost savings and is a fitting example of a time when a building owner should spend money to save money. Elevator consultants provide contract review and renegotiation, identify inefficiencies and cost-saving opportunities, preventive maintenance implementations, and streamlined vendor management, and can prove to be a wise investment for property managers and building owners.

Why Hire an Elevator Consultant

Property managers and building owners face ever-increasing challenges in optimizing building performance while maximizing return on investment. Elevators are an integral component of modern buildings and play a crucial role in the operations of the building including tenant satisfaction, operational efficiency, and overall performance. To navigate this dynamic landscape and ensure optimal elevator performance, hiring an elevator consultant is a wise investment. Let’s explore some compelling reasons why:

Reduce Costs and Increase Longevity

Elevators require regular maintenance to function optimally. An elevator consultant can develop a custom maintenance plan that focuses on both cost-effectiveness and longevity. By thoroughly assessing your elevators’ condition, they can identify potential issues before they turn into expensive repairs, shutdowns, or frequent callback or break-fix maintenance. Elevator Consultants provide valuable information about the building’s elevators based on industry best practices, type of equipment, usage, condition, and maintenance. By working with an elevator consultant, property managers, and building owners can enhance tenant experiences, minimize downtime, and reduce costs.

Optimize & Prolong the Life of Current Equipment

As technology advances, elevator systems become outdated and less efficient. When modernization is not a viable option, an elevator consultant provides invaluable guidance on what property managers and building owners can do to prolong the life of their current equipment. They assess the condition of existing elevators, understand the building concerns, identify necessary improvements, and recommend strategies aligned with your goals and budget.

Access Expert Insight and Industry Knowledge

Navigating the dynamic landscape of elevator technology, industry trends, and best practices can be daunting. Elevator consultants bring a wealth of expertise and industry knowledge acquired through years of experience. They stay updated with the latest advancements, emerging technologies, and regulations, enabling them to provide informed recommendations tailored to your specific needs. In legal disputes or insurance claims related to elevators, an elevator consulting firm can provide expert witness services, offering objective opinions and technical expertise to resolve conflicts and support your case.

In a highly competitive market, where tenant satisfaction, keeping costs down, operational efficiency, and safety are paramount, hiring an elevator consultant is a strategic move that yields numerous benefits for property managers and building owners. From optimizing elevator performance to reducing operating costs and accessing expert insights, their expertise can enhance your property’s value and reputation. By investing in an elevator consulting firm, you set the foundation for a seamless and efficient vertical transportation system that elevates your building’s overall performance and enhances stakeholder satisfaction.

Top 7 Considerations as Buildings Operate amid the Pandemic

CHICAGO—December 31, 2020 The COVID-19 public health crisis has changed almost every aspect of our lives, including how we use buildings. These days, it’s important to accommodate a building’s changing needs while keeping everyone safe. Acting as the building’s main artery, elevators play an essential role in managing the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Although there is no official rulebook for handling a situation like this, there are some important considerations for building owners and property managers to keep their elevator buildings running smoothly while COVID-19 restrictions are in place.

1. Do a traffic study.

People are returning to work in different capacities. What will the flow of tenants look like as they try to return to their offices? For example, when are the busiest and slowest times? What are the average wait times and the longest wait times? Patterns in elevator usage can help buildings assess their current operations and adjust accordingly.

2. Post guidelines for social distancing.

The CDC recommends social distancing, which can be challenging in the confined space of an elevator. Depending on the elevator’s size, some buildings have limited the number of riders to only 2, 3 or 4 at a time. These guidelines are posted and often include reminders to stay 6 feet apart.

3. Install fans, filters or lights.

It has been stated that COVID-19 spreads through respiratory droplets that can remain in the air and drift around with air currents. Although there is no proven solution to address this threat effectively, some buildings have evaluated installing fans and filters to control air flow and UV lights to disinfect the spaces.

4. Limit touchpoints.

To combat infected surfaces, some building owners have limited the need for physical contact by applying an antimicrobial film on the elevator buttons, using touchless technology, or even using security or a dispatcher to control the elevator for riders. At minimum, most buildings are providing masks, hand sanitizers and wipes to provide protection in shared spaces.

5. Stay on top of maintenance.

Because buildings have remained open at some capacity during the pandemic, elevators are expected to be able to perform day-to-day operations without issues. This is a great time to review the maintenance records and ensure all work is up to date.

6. Renovate/repair during slow times.

If elevators are not used as frequently due to a lower building occupancy, it could be an ideal opportunity to complete preventative maintenance, repairs or upgrades. Elevator service providers are essential workers and ready to work.

7. Protect your investment.

The costs of operating an elevator building are expensive, but any downtime, repairs and non-compliance fees can add up quickly. Building owners and property managers can review the contract for their elevator service provider and ensure they are getting the services and items they are paying for. It is a great time to review the details of your contract and verify compliancy.

These steps can not only help a building operate efficiently and safely, but also may help you save money while weathering COVID-19. As a reminder, always check with your federal, state and local officials on all COVID-19 requirements for vertical transportation operations. Why worry about your elevators when you can get to know them, visit www.theelevatorconsultant.com to request a copy of The Elevator Playbook, and for more information on how The Elevator Consultants can help you with you elevator management needs, please visit www.theelevatorconsultant.com

The Elevator Consultants, a Leading Vertical Transportation & Elevator Consulting Firm, Post ASME A17.1/CSA B44 Responsibilities

March 31, 2018 – Chicago, Illinois. The Elevator Consultants, a leading elevator consulting and vertical transportation consulting firm helping building owners and property managers to improve elevator efficiency and increase the bottom line, is proud to announce an important post to its blog on ASME A17.1/CSA B44 responsibilities, specifically addressing confusing among building owners that they may not understand that the ultimate responsibility is theirs and not property managers. Continue reading

The Elevator Consultants Announces Post on Need for a Maintenance Control Program for Elevators and Vertical Transportation Assets

Chicago, Illinois – February 28, 2018. The Elevator Consultants, a leading elevator consulting and vertical transportation consulting firm, is proud to announce a new post to its blog on the issue of what a Maintenance Control Program (MCP) is and why it is necessary for building owners with respect to elevators and other vertical transportation assets. Continue reading

The Elevator Consultants, a Leading Vertical Transportation Consulting & Elevator Consulting Firm, Announces Post on REITS and Investor Issues

Chicago, IL – January 29, 2018. The Elevator Consultants, a leading elevator consulting and vertical transportation consulting firm, is proud to announce a two-part series to its blog on issues that may impact REITS and investors who may be purchasing buildings with elevator and/or vertical transportation issues. REITS, of course, refers to “Real Estate Investment Trusts,” and as such may be large-scale purchasers of buildings that have vertical transportation assets. Continue reading

REITS and Investors Beware When Buying a Property with Elevators (Part 2)

Editor’s note. As one of the top vertical transportation consulting firms in the United States, we get a lot of inquiries from buyers and sellers. Both parties want to conduct the necessary due diligence in any transaction. We often assist in evaluating everything with respect to elevators and other vertical transportation assets. In part 2 of our blog post on the topic of “Buyer Beware” for REITS and investors, we dig deeper into the subject. Continue reading

The Elevator Consultants, a Leading Vertical Transportation & Elevator Consulting Firm, Announces Post on Conflicts of Interest

December 27, 2017 – Chicago, IL. The Elevator Consultants, a leading elevator consulting and vertical transportation consulting firm helping building owners and property managers to improve elevator efficiency and increase the bottom line, is proud to announce a short but important post to its blog on potential conflicts of interest in elevator projects. Continue reading

The Elevator Consultants, Experts in Vertical Transportation Consulting Services for Hospitals, Announces New Blog Post

Chicago, Illinois – November 29, 2017. The Elevator Consultants, a leading elevator consulting firm helping building owners and managers to improve elevator efficiency and increase the bottom line, is proud to announce a pithy blog post explaining many of the details faced by hospitals and others in the medical industry when facing elevator modernization, research into building costs and ROI, and even conflicts of interest among building management, elevator maintenance companies and other stakeholders. Continue reading

The Elevator Consultants, a Leading Vertical Transportation Consultancy Firm, Announces Website Upgrades

Chicago, Illinois – September 25, 2017. The Elevator Consultants, a leading elevator consulting firm helping building owners and managers to improve elevator efficiency and increase the bottom line, is proud to announce important upgrades to its website so as to improve customer communications. With business-to-business customers solidly turning first to the Web for information, the new website helps solidify the company’s leadership as a top national and global elevator consulting firm for all elevator and escalator needs including elevator efficiency, elevator due diligence, elevator audits, elevator modernizations and numerous other industry related needs. Continue reading

What Is An Elevator Consultant?

What is an Elevator Consultant?

Upon hearing the term “elevator consultant,” one might wonder what the title specifically entails. Generally, a consultant is someone who is hired to fix or improve a component of their client’s business. The Elevator Consultants are brought in to ensure that the elevator equipment in a client’s building is functioning properly and according to the contract. In addition to assessing basic functionality, The Elevator Consultant deals with the elevator companies to determine whether or not they are meeting the terms of their contracts and servicing each elevator appropriately as required by each building. The Elevator Consultants have specific expertise in the areas of elevator maintenance, analysis, modernization, repairs, new installations, insurance reviews, safety specifications, elevator code, as well as state and federal regulations.

Cost Effective

The Elevator Consultants offer cost-effective ways of stabilizing the overall performance of vertical transportation equipment by seeking out measures of preventative maintenance. This is guaranteed to save the client money on their equipment. Audits are highly effective in determining the current conditions of all elevator equipment. Audits, in turn, highlight the necessary areas of maintenance in relation to the elevator company’s obligations to the equipment via contracts. The auditing process utilized by The Elevator Consultants allows the client to hold their service provider accountable to their responsibilities and ultimately give the client peace of mind about the safety and lifespan of their elevator equipment. The Elevator Consultants offers more services such as invoice reconciliation, modernization specifications, new construction specifications, maintenance specifications, audits, new code upgrades, violation resolution, general elevator questions and many other services.