As we kick off a new year, it’s the perfect time to ensure your building’s elevators are ready for the months ahead. Elevators are the backbone of many properties, and with a little extra care, they can continue to provide safe, efficient service all year long.
At Metro Elevator, we’re here to help you make 2025 a year of smooth operations and hassle-free maintenance. With the tips below, you can prevent costly repairs, improve reliability, and keep your elevators in excellent shape.
1. Schedule Regular Maintenance Inspections
Regular maintenance inspections are essential to catching potential problems before they become serious issues. By having your elevator inspected every few months, you can identify small issues early on, preventing costly repairs and reducing the risk of elevator shutdowns. A certified technician will inspect important parts like brakes, cables, doors, and control systems to make sure everything is working well.
Investing in routine inspections saves money over time by avoiding sudden breakdowns. Plus, inspections help you meet safety standards and keep your building compliant with local regulations.
Tip: Partner with a certified elevator maintenance provider to stay compliant with local codes and regulations while keeping your elevator in top shape.
2. Clean and Lubricate Components
Dust and dirt might seem harmless, but over time, they can cause friction and wear out key parts of your elevator. Cleaning and lubricating parts like door tracks, rollers, and bearings will keep the system running smoothly and extend the life of moving parts. Regular lubrication reduces friction, which helps prevent mechanical strain and breakdowns.
It’s best to use the cleaning products and lubricants recommended by the elevator manufacturer. This helps protect components from damage, so they keep working properly.
Tip: Schedule a professional cleaning with a certified elevator technician every few months, and use only manufacturer-recommended lubricants to prevent potential damage to components.
3. Inspect and Replace Worn Cables and Belts
Cables and belts are some of the most critical parts of an elevator, bearing its weight and enabling movement. Over time, they wear out from regular use. To prevent accidents and maintain safe, reliable operation, it’s important to inspect cables and belts regularly. Look for signs of wear, such as fraying or stretching, and replace any worn components immediately.
Having the right tension and alignment on cables and belts also helps extend their lifespan and keeps the elevator running smoothly. A trained technician can ensure these components are properly adjusted during inspections.
Tip: During preventative maintenance inspections, your technician will check the cables’ alignment and tension, as improper tension can lead to premature wear.
4. Monitor the Control Panel for Issues
The control panel is like the brain of your elevator, coordinating all its functions. It’s important to monitor the control panel for any issues, such as irregular floor leveling or delays in door operation. These signs can indicate that the control system needs attention. Addressing minor issues with the control panel early on can help prevent shutdowns and keep the elevator running smoothly.
Building staff can help by reporting any unusual performance they notice. Being proactive with control panel maintenance will keep your elevator responsive and efficient.
Tip: Encourage building staff to report any unusual delays or inconsistent movement, as these could indicate early control panel problems.
5. Test the Backup Power and Emergency Systems
Reliable backup power and emergency systems are critical in case of a power outage. Regularly test emergency systems such as backup power sources, alarms, and communication devices to ensure they’re in working order. This way, if the elevator stops, people inside will be safe and able to call for help.
Routine testing also includes checking emergency lights and ventilation systems. Keeping these systems in top shape will provide peace of mind for both building managers and elevator passengers.
Tip: Add emergency system checks to your routine maintenance schedule, and coordinate with local safety guidelines to ensure compliance.
Make Elevator Maintenance Your New Year’s Resolution
Start the year with a resolution to prioritize elevator maintenance. By following these five practical tips—regular maintenance inspections, cleaning and lubrication, checking cables and belts, monitoring the control panel, and testing emergency systems—you can set your elevator up for a year of smooth, reliable operation.
At Metro Elevator, we’re ready to partner with you to make this your elevator’s best year yet. Contact us today for a free consultation or to learn more about our maintenance services. Let’s make 2025 the year of seamless service!
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Justin Kina is the Vice President of Metro Elevator Carolinas, bringing over 17 years of experience to his role and customers in the Charlotte area. Learn more about Justin and the Carolinas Division here.