Modernising Lifts: When and Why You Should Upgrade Your Equipment
In many buildings, the lift is essential for daily comfort, accessibility, and safety. However, like any mechanical or electronic system, lifts age over time. Modernising your lift not only improves performance but also ensures compliance with current regulations while offering a safer and more efficient experience.
This article explains when you should modernise your lift and why this investment is crucial for the long-term value and safety of your building.
What Does Lift Modernisation Mean?
Modernisation refers to upgrading key components of the lift—mechanical, electrical, and electronic—to enhance its functionality, safety, and energy efficiency.
It does not always require replacing the entire lift. In many cases, specific elements can be upgraded, such as:
- Control panel
- Traction system
- Electrical system
- Landing and car operating panels
- Automatic doors
- Cabin interiors and accessories
This approach extends the lifespan of the lift without the cost of installing a completely new system.
Signs Your Lift Needs Modernising
1. Frequent breakdowns
If your lift stops often or experiences recurrent failures, this indicates worn-out or outdated components.
2. Poor speed and levelling
Older lifts may take longer to reach floors or stop unevenly, compromising both comfort and safety.
3. High energy consumption
Outdated systems use significantly more energy than modern alternatives. New technology can reduce energy consumption by up to 40%.
4. Outdated safety or accessibility standards
Lift regulations evolve regularly. If your equipment no longer meets current requirements, it may be time to update it.
5. Obsolete or hard-to-find parts
When replacement parts are no longer available, repairs become slower and more expensive.
Benefits of Modernising Your Lift
✔ Enhanced safety
Modern systems include advanced protection mechanisms, improved sensors, safer automatic doors, and up-to-date control technology.
✔ Energy efficiency
Newer lifts consume considerably less energy thanks to permanent-magnet motors, LED lighting, and regenerative drive systems.
✔ Better user experience
Modern lift journeys are smoother, quieter, and more comfortable.
✔ Increased property value
A modern, visually improved lift enhances a building’s value and overall appeal.
✔ Long-term cost reduction
Fewer breakdowns and more efficient systems reduce long-term maintenance costs.
When Is the Right Time to Modernise?
You should consider a lift modernisation if:
- Your lift is over 20 years old.
- Annual maintenance costs continue to rise.
- Users frequently complain about reliability or performance.
- The lift no longer complies with safety or accessibility regulations.
- You are planning a larger refurbishment of the building.
A professional technical assessment can determine whether a partial or complete modernisation is required.