Installing a home elevator makes a multistory house much more functional and convenient, especially for those with mobility challenges. It’s far from a do-it-yourself (DIY) project, but if you’re curious about what goes into installing an elevator in your home, This Old House host Kevin O’Connor and an accessibility contractor demonstrate the process in the video above.
You should hire a licensed contractor to ensure your residential elevator is installed correctly. Skilled technicians can handle the precision required in fastening bolts and aligning floors, which prevents future issues and makes your elevator safer.
Choosing the Right Location for a Home Elevator
First, you’ll need to choose the right elevator location. You must look at available space, structural support, electrical connections, and how accessibility will flow between floors. You’ll need a roughly 6-square-foot area. In some cases, an exterior installation may be necessary.
Indoor installations protect the system from weather while sacrificing indoor space. Exterior installations preserve indoor space but require robust weatherproofing and access considerations.
Customizing the Fit for Your Home
Customize the fit of the elevator to harmonize with your home’s layout. We suggest consulting with design professionals who can help integrate the elevator seamlessly, ensuring it does what you want it to without being an eyesore.
Getting Necessary Permits and Inspections for a Home Elevator
You or your contractor must contact your local building department to determine what permits and inspections are required for the project. You’ll likely need to submit detailed plans and specifications for approval and schedule inspections at various stages of the installation. Final certification is crucial for legal operation and safety.
Preparing the Foundation for a Home Elevator
Construction starts with creating a solid foundation. Your contractor will assess your property’s ground conditions, looking for any potential issues that would cause shifting or settling and affect the elevator in time. Structural engineers can often give insights into the specific requirements based on your soil type and environmental conditions. The contractor will excavate the chosen area if necessary. A crew will pour a concrete pad to serve as the elevator’s footing, letting it cure completely.
Concrete’s curing time typically lasts a few days. Your contractor may opt for reinforcement methods like rebar to help strengthen the pad and provide additional support for the elevator structure.
Installing the Elevator Tower
The elevator tower is the system’s backbone, housing essential components like the hydraulics and controls. The crew will position the first tower section on the concrete pad and then use a chain pull to hoist and level the tower. The construction team will stabilize the tower legs using bolts and washers and secure them to the concrete pad. It will then hoist and attach the second tower section and connect the two sections using bolts and washers. Your contractor should use high-quality bolts and washers to secure the sections firmly.
Aligning the Tower Sections
Correctly aligning the tower sections is crucial for smooth elevator operation. The crew will likely use guiding tools and alignment marks during installation to ensure that each section fits perfectly with the next. This alignment prevents operational issues, such as unnecessary wear and tear of moving parts.
Setting Up the Home Elevator Hydraulic System
The hydraulic system is responsible for the elevator moving smoothly. The team will fill the reservoir with the appropriate hydraulic fluid, typically transmission fluid, and check for any leaks or issues in the hydraulic lines. It should test the system for proper pressure and function. It should also verify the type of fluid required and ensure compatibility with the system to avoid malfunctions.
Using transmission fluid enhances the hydraulic system’s efficiency and longevity. Proper maintenance, including regular fluid replacement, can prevent mechanical issues and ensure consistent elevator performance.
Installing the Home Elevator Platform and Floor
The platform and floor form the base of the elevator cab. The crew will lift the platform base and place it on top of the tower legs. It will then secure the platform using bolts and washers and install the floor on top of the platform base. The workers should fasten the floor securely to the platform.
Adding Safety Features and Enclosure of a Home Elevator
Several additional components are necessary to ensure safe operation and weather protection.
Safety Panels
Install 42-inch panels on three sides of the platform to create a secure cab environment. These panels prevent falls and ensure passenger safety during operation. Remember, these should be tailored to those using the elevator for mobility assistance.
Weather Enclosure
To protect the elevator from the elements, especially for exterior installations, add an enclosure around the entire lift. This enclosure serves multiple purposes It keeps out rain and snow, provides wind protection, and enhances the overall structure appearance.
Doors and Interlocks
Install doors at each level where the elevator will stop. Ensure that doors are properly aligned with the elevator cab. You should install safety interlocks to prevent doors from opening when the elevator is not present and cause doors to lock automatically when the elevator is in motion.
Enhancing Safety Measures
Sensors and automatic shutdown features can provide an extra layer of security, mitigating risks associated with mechanical failures or human error. Consult with experts on the latest safety technology to enhance your elevator.
Home Elevator Electrical and Control System Installation
A properly installed electrical and control system is crucial for safe and efficient elevator operation. Follow these steps:
- Hire a licensed electrician to handle the wiring.
- Install the main control panel in an accessible location.
- Connect the control panel to the elevator’s motor and safety features.
- Install call buttons on each floor.
- Test all electrical components thoroughly before use.
Expert Involvement
Working with experienced electricians ensures compliance with safety codes and standards. They can provide insights into optimizing the control system for better performance and reliability. Regular inspections and maintenance are also important.
Testing and Adjustments
Before putting the elevator into regular use, do thorough testing and make necessary adjustments.
- Run the elevator through its full range of motion multiple times.
- Check for any unusual noises or vibrations.
- Verify that all safety features are functioning correctly.
- Ensure smooth starts and stops on each floor.
- Make any required adjustments to leveling or door alignment.
Addressing any anomalies during this phase can prevent operational issues and improve safety. Identify and resolve any issues promptly. Pay attention to operational sounds and vibrations, which can be indicators of underlying problems.
Maintenance and Upkeep
We recommend tending to the following maintenance tasks to keep your elevator running smoothly:
- Schedule annual professional inspections.
- Regularly check and lubricate moving parts.
- Keep the elevator shaft and cab clean.
- Monitor hydraulic fluid levels and condition.
- Address any unusual noises or operation issues promptly.