It's that time of year when Mid-Atlantic weather gets unpredictable, 60 degrees today, 20 degrees tomorrow. The weatherman is only right 30% of the time and he might call for a parka in the morning and only a T-shirt for your drive home, unfortunately your building can't react quite that quickly. Take the time now to prepare yourself for the inevitable U-Turn the Tri-State weather is bound to make in the next month.
It may be beautiful today, but rest assured... winter is coming.
Winter Elevator Maintenance Checklist
Winter storms are surely on their way, so it is best to get prepared now. Although the snow may create a fairytale landscape, high winds and dropping temps can prove to be a nightmare to your property & your elevator equipment. Not to worry – we’ve compiled some helpful tips to keep your elevator running smoothly throughout the chill of winter.
- Temperature Management - Always ensure your elevator room is between 45 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit with relative humidity not exceeding 85%. If temps & humidity get outside of this range, your elevator equipment will be more apt to malfunction or require costly repairs.
- “Run” Hydraulic Elevators before the Rush - If you have a busy morning traffic pattern, it’s recommended to run the elevators to the middle floors and back a few times in the morning to circulate the oil. Warm oil will pass more smoothly through the piston & valves, reducing wear and improve piston performance.
- Weather Stripping - Should your machine room be subject to the outdoor elements, check the seals around your doors, windows and vents for wind and water entrance. Replace or repair any damaged or leaking areas before the winter freeze sets in.
- Reinforce Windows - If your machine room has windows, these can be blown out by strong winds. To prevent water damage, fasten sheets of plywood over the windows. This will help protect your equipment and maintain a consistent temperature in your machine room.
- Prepare for High Water - Park all elevators near the center of the hoist way to prevent potential water damage from accumulation in the pit during rains & winter thaw. If the cab or travel cables become damp or submerged in water, they will require extensive & costly repairs.
- Select Good Entrance Mats – Preventing rock salt & sidewalk deicers from being tracked into your building will help prevent slip hazards & may also reduce premature wear of your elevator’s door sills and equipment. "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."
Winter Elevator Equipment Upgrades:
There is still time to get your elevator equipment upgraded before the seasonal chill causes havoc around your building. These three options can make a huge impact on your guests' seamless vertical transportation at your property this winter.
- Tank Heater – For hydraulic elevators, help maintain the oil temperature in the reservoir with a tank heater.
- Electronic Control Valves – Provide maximum ride quality and comfort, regardless of load or temperature.
- Hydraulic Battery– Reduces the possibility of an entrapment in the event of a power outage.
Following these safety tips will help keep your building, employees and elevators safe from winter’s bite. To inquire about upgrades, schedule an inspection or request additional maintenance before winter sets in, please contact Liberty Elevator today.
Liberty Elevator's Service Area
As one of the top elevator companies in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania & Florida, Liberty Elevator understands that our customers have unique needs and offers our clients the freedom to choose. Whether choosing a customized elevator maintenance program, installing nonproprietary equipment, or providing a flexible agreement, Liberty Elevator provides knowledgeable recommendations for various models and vintages of elevator equipment.
To keep your elevator healthy this winter and to avoid weather related breakdowns, contact Liberty Elevator before winter's wrath begins to snowball!
Reference Article: What Is the Difference Between a Winter Storm Watch, Warning, and Advisory?
Reference Article: How To Prepare Your Commercial Building For Winter