Installing a lift in your building is a significant investment that can enhance accessibility and your properties value. If you are looking to upgrade an existing lift installation or planning a new one, choosing the right lift involves more than just simply selecting the model. Decision making is extremely important when it comes to ensuring that the lift installation meets your needs and your industry’s standard. Here are five factors to consider when looking for a new lift installation.
1. Building structure and space availability
One of the early considerations when looking for lift installations is the building structure and the availability of space where your project will be taking place, whether it’s a residential, commercial or industrial property the amount of space available is a crucial factor when it comes to determining what type of lift can be installed.
For existing buildings, a structural assessment is used to determine if the building can support the lift shaft and other components. However, for new constructions working with an architect or lift expert is extremely important as lift placement should be integrated into the architectural design to maximise efficiency.
2. Purpose and usage requirements
When looking for the right lift installation system understanding the intended use of the lift is crucial. The main factors you have to take into consideration are who will be using the lift and how often it will be used. For example, residential properties might only need a single passenger lift, whereas a commercial building might be a bigger project therefore needing a lift system designed for more frequent use. Finally for industrial settings specialised lifts might be needed to be able to deal with the heavy loads.
3. Compliance with regulations and standards
Lift Installations must comply with safety regulations and standards. For example, in many cases lifts must be compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) to make sure there is accessibility for all users, including those with mobility impairments. Alongside making the workplace safe, compliance also protects you from potential legal liabilities.
4. Energy efficiency and environmental impact
With sustainability becoming increasingly important, energy efficiency is an important part of lift installation. Nowadays you will find that modern lifts come with advanced technology that reduces energy consumption, with features such as energy-saving standby modes. Overall, opting for an energy efficient lift reduces costs and helps the environment, it’s a win-win!
5. Long-term maintenance and service plans
A lift is a long term investment that requires maintenance on a regular basis, so before lift installation it’s important to plan for regular servicing and take into account the added costs such as maintenance contracts, repairs, and inspections. Therefore, it is important to choose a lift from a manufacturer with strong after-sales support and readily available spare parts is essential for minimising downtime. Planning for long-term maintenance ensures that your lift remains safe, efficient, and compliant throughout its lifecycle.
Lift installation can be a complicated process which requires consideration of the building’s structure, the intended use, regulations and maintenance needs. If you address these factors you can make sure that your lift remains valuable and functional as well as meeting the needs of the occupants too. Get in touch with Lancs & Cumbria Lifts to find out more information.
