Whether you own rental properties or a multi-level retail store, your commercial elevator keeps your business running smoothly. Your tenants, customers, or clients take it for granted that your building’s elevator will function as it should. If it does malfunction, this problem reflects poorly on your company’s image. Scheduling regular elevator maintenance visits in Salt Lake City is an effective way to increase the equipment’s longevity, keep more money in your pocket, and prevent frustration for everyone who uses it.
Evaluate the elevator regularly.
Your own evaluation of the equipment cannot replace professional elevator maintenance and an annual inspection. However, it’s to be expected that your elevator may need additional service calls on occasion. Ride your own elevator at least every week, and report any concerns to the technician promptly. Fixing minor problems right away can prevent the need for major, costly repairs. When you ride the elevator, consider whether any of the following problems are present:
- Slow operation
- Excessive energy usage
- Excessive vibrations or noise
- Jerky movements
- Long wait times
- Failure to level with floor
Additionally, you can solicit feedback from your customers or tenants regarding the functioning of the elevator. Any problems should be evaluated by a trained elevator technician as soon as possible.
Get an annual elevator inspection.
Even if you’ve had your elevator recently serviced, you must schedule its annual inspection. Some of the most common problems inspectors find include the following:
- Door restrictor not working properly
- Lights not working
- Door reversing device malfunctioning
- Fire recall service not working
- Elevator cables are substandard or worn
In addition, the inspector will check the elevator machine room. The room must not be used for any other purpose, including storage of non-related equipment.
Know the weight limit.
Exceeding the weight limit is dangerous, and may cause a deadly accident. Consider posting a highly visible sign in the elevator that states its weight capacity and warns of the consequences of exceeding it. If you’re renovating an older building, and your business will require the transportation of very heavy objects, it’s probably best to install a new elevator with a greater weight capacity.