Guide to Purchasing a Home Elevator 2023

Investing in a home elevator can make your life easier, more comfortable, and safer. Whether you are looking to purchase residential lifts or affordable home elevators in Dallas or Fort Worth TX, knowing the different types and features of home elevators can help you make the best decision for your needs.

There are several types of residential lifts that vary in size, features, and usage. Read along as Ascend guides you through all the information you need to purchase a home elevator.

Buying Affordable Home Elevators

When it comes to residential lifts, affordability is an important factor. You’ll want to compare the prices and features of different residential lifts to find the most cost-effective one for your home. Be sure to investigate all possible discounts or incentives that are available from elevator companies or local governments.

When setting a budget for your residential elevators, you should also take into account the installation and maintenance costs. Depending on the size, style, and features of the elevator, prices might vary widely.

Guide to Purchasing a Home Elevator 2023

It is important to determine the size and type of residential elevator that best fits your home. Consider factors such as total passenger weight, the amount of available space, home elevator cost, and any special features you may want to be included (such as a wheelchair lift or automatic doors).

1. Space Available & Rise Length

The amount of space available in your home is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing residential lifts. Make sure you measure the total rise length (the distance from the bottom of the elevator shaft to the top) and compare it with residential lifts’ specifications.

Identifying the space available for residential lifts is essential to finding a home elevator that fits within your home’s dimensions. You should also consider the total width and length of residential elevators, as well as their total weight capacity.

2. Choose a Drive System

A residential elevator must have a drive system that safely and reliably propels it up and down the shaft. There are three main types of residential elevator drives: hydraulic, traction, and winding drum.

• Hydraulic drives are powered by hydraulic fluid pressure and require minimal energy to operate. Hydraulic elevators are cost-efficient but can be noisy, and their speed is limited by the power of the motor.
• Traction residential lifts are powered by electric motors, making them quieter than hydraulic drives. They can move at faster speeds but require more energy to run, which can result in higher costs.
• Winding drum residential elevators use a system of cables and pulleys to move the cab. They are quieter than hydraulic and traction residential lifts, but their speed is limited by their winding system.

3. Current Home Structure/Third-Party Work

Your current home structure will affect the residential elevator installation process. If you have an existing structure, such as a basement or attic, that can be used for residential lifts, then you may not need to hire a contractor to make any modifications.

On the other hand, if your home does not have an existing structure suitable for residential elevators, then you will need to hire a contractor to build one. In some cases, residential elevators must be installed through the ceiling or an outside wall.

You should also consider any additional features that you may want for residential lifts, such as automatic doors or wheelchair lifts. You may need to hire a third-party contractor for these modifications if your residential elevator company does not provide them.

4. Budget

Whether it is a traditional elevator or a pneumatic elevator, it can still be quite expensive, so it is important to set a budget in advance. You should also consider the costs of installation, maintenance, and repairs when setting your budget for residential lifts.

You should also compare the features and advantages of each model of home elevator together with the pricing. Pay attention to any discounts or rewards that elevator companies may be providing.

For instance, shaftless home elevator models may be eligible for residential tax credits in some states. This will enable you to purchase the best residential lift for a reasonable price.

When shopping for home elevators, keep in mind that while the basic components of residential elevators are usually consistent across brands, such as size and style, features might vary widely like the elevator cab and machine room.

5. Choose an Authorized Dealer of the Manufacturer

Having the most trusted residential elevator manufacturers, such as Ascend Residential Elevators and Lifts, is the key to a safe residential lift experience.

You can find an authorized dealer of residential lifts by checking out online reviews and testimonials. Make sure that the residential elevator company you choose has experience with home elevators, a good track record in terms of customer service, and is certified by the residential elevator manufacturer.

What Safety Features Do Home Elevators Have?

Safety should always be your first priority when it comes to residential elevators. The good news is that all home elevator manufacturers must adhere to stringent safety standards, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the National Elevator Code (NEC).

Australian Elevator Association also has residential lift safety standards that residential elevator companies must comply with. These standards include emergency stop devices, mechanical interlocks, and call-back systems for residential lifts.

You should also check for additional safety features including the following:

1. Emergency Stop Button

A residential elevator typically has an emergency stop button that will immediately stop the elevator cab in case of an emergency. This is a crucial feature to have in residential elevators as it can help prevent accidents.

2. Telephone System

Some residential elevators come with a telephone system so you can call for help if needed. The elevator installer may also install an intercom or other communication system.

3. Backup Power Supply

Many residential lifts have a backup power supply to ensure continued functioning in case of a power failure or outage. Elevator car lights may also be installed for added safety.

4. Automatic Door Lock System

The residential elevator cab is usually equipped with an automatic locking system that prevents the doors from opening while the elevator is in motion. Pneumatic elevators may also have a built-in sensor system that prevents the cab from running if someone is inside.

5. Monitoring System

Some residential lifts come with sensors and monitors to ensure the safe operation of the home elevators at all times. Machine rooms and residential elevator shafts may be equipped with motion detectors and other sensors for added safety.

Residential Lifts Fort Worth

Fort Worth is home to a variety of residential lift companies that offer affordable home elevators. These companies typically offer custom-made residential lifts, as well as various safety features and monitoring systems.

If you’re looking for residential lifts in Fort Worth, Ascend is a great option.

Ascend has a wide selection of residential lifts that are designed to meet the needs of any home. We also provide professional installation services and maintenance plans to ensure your residential elevator works safely and reliably.

When it comes to residential elevators, safety and reliability should always be top priorities. Contact us today to learn more about residential lifts in Fort Worth and to get started on the process of purchasing a home elevator. We look forward to helping you find the perfect residential lift for your home.

Common FAQs on Home Elevators