How to Plan Your Elevator Modernization: A Simple 5-Step Guide for Building Teams
Is your building’s elevator starting to feel old? Maybe it makes strange noises, stops too often for repairs, or just seems slow compared to newer buildings. If this sounds familiar, it might be time for an elevator upgrade—what professionals call “modernization.”
Modernizing your elevator means updating its key parts without building a whole new one. It’s like giving your elevator a major tune-up that makes it safer, faster, and cheaper to run. But how do you plan such a project? Here are five important areas every property manager and building engineer should consider.
1. Think About Weight and Size Needs
First, ask yourself: How is my building being used now, and how might that change?
▸Do more people use the building than when the elevator was first installed?
▸Has the building added floors or changed from offices to apartments?
▸Are people regularly waiting too long during busy times?
Your elevator’s weight capacity (how much it can carry) and cab size (how many people fit) should match your building’s needs. A good modernization plan looks at both current use and future changes.
2. Consider Speed and Wait Times
Slow elevators can make people unhappy—whether they’re residents, office workers, or hotel guests. When planning your upgrade, think about:
▸How many stops does the elevator make?
▸How long do people wait during busy hours?
▸Could better technology help move people more efficiently?
Modern control systems can group people going to similar floors, making trips faster for everyone. Sometimes, just updating the doors to open and close quicker can save valuable seconds.
3. Upgrade the Control System
The control system is like the elevator’s brain. Older systems use mechanical parts that wear out. Newer digital systems offer:
▸Fewer breakdowns (digital parts last longer)
▸Better traffic management (smarter floor selection)
▸Remote monitoring (technicians can check issues from anywhere)
▸Touchless options (important for health and safety)
Think of it like upgrading from an old flip phone to a modern smartphone—same basic purpose, but much more capable.
4. Save Energy and Money
Did you know that in some buildings, elevators can use up to 10% of all electricity? Modern elevators are designed to save energy through:
Efficient motors that use less power
▸LED lighting in the elevator car
▸Systems that capture energy when the elevator brakes (like a hybrid car)
▸Sleep modes when not in use
These improvements can cut your elevator’s energy use in half, saving money every month on utility bills.
5. Improve the Rider Experience
Finally, think about the people who use your elevator every day. Small improvements can make a big difference:
▸Smoother rides with better leveling (no bumpy stops)
▸Modern interior design that looks clean and professional
▸Better lighting that feels welcoming
▸Clear displays and announcements
▸Accessibility features for all users
A comfortable, reliable elevator tells people that you care about their experience in your building.
Putting It All Together
Planning a successful elevator modernization means looking at all these areas together. Start by identifying your biggest problems—maybe it’s high repair costs, or tenant complaints about wait times. Then work with experts to create a plan that solves these issues while improving efficiency and comfort.
Remember: A good modernization should last 15-20 years, so it’s worth taking the time to plan carefully. The right upgrades can make your building safer, more efficient, and more attractive to tenants—all while saving money in the long run.
At TOWARDS ELEVATOR, we combine European-engineered precision with globally certified manufacturing to deliver solutions that are both advanced and cost-effective. Our team works with you from the first consultation through to installation and 24/7 support, ensuring a seamless transition. Explore our tailored lift modernization solutions today！