blue + white blog title graphic "Common Maintenance Problems Elevators Face"

Common Maintenance Problems Elevators Face

November 10, 2024

When deciding to get an elevator repaired or modernized, it’s important to know why your elevator needs maintenance services. What part of the elevator isn’t working? Is there an external reason why it stopped working? Or, is the elevator older and in need of replacement? Here are four common maintenance problems an elevator could face, and how to prevent or fix them.

Slow Operation and Delays

Have you ever been in a building where the elevator moves exceptionally slowly? And not just because it’s stopping on each floor to pick up riders. Healthy elevators should respond promptly to the demands of the operating system; slow-moving elevators will not only hurt customer satisfaction but could put any rider at risk. 

How Is It Fixed? 

When an elevator technician comes to asses an elevator, they will first check the responsiveness of the elevator, the control system, and its sensors. Once the technician has found the cause behind the elevator’s slow operation, they will provide adjustments, lubrication, or completely upgrade elevator parts that are past their life expectancy. Mechanics at Buckley Elevator are some of the best in the field and will provide a thorough inspection that will locate where and why an elevator or lift system is delayed.  

Weird Noises

Elevators should be quiet, so when there’s a rattling, grinding, or squeaking sound, there are most likely deeper mechanical issues at play. These noises could be caused by underlying mechanical problems, misaligned components, loose or worn-out parts, or needed lubrication.  

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How Is It Fixed? 

Technicians will examine all machinery involved, including motors, pulleys, gears, and cables. During this examination, the technician will find any loose or damaged parts and then will decide from there if there will be maintenance work, repairs, or replacements.   

Doors Not Closing Properly

Another common maintenance issue is when elevator doors don’t open and close properly, whether they take too long to open/close or move at all. This is a great safety concern if left untreated. 

How Is It Fixed?

Elevator technicians will assess and adjust door components to resolve door-related issues. This will include checking door sensors, guides, and rollers for proper alignment and lubrication. Technicians might also look at door tracks and clean them if they are filled with debris or dirt that could cause obstruction.  

Elevator Jerking/Shaking 

An elevator jerking or shaking is a huge safety hazard for anyone riding the lift. This can happen for different reasons, from misalignment to worn-out components, or issues with the control system. These erratic movements cannot be ignored, as they could be detrimental to the safety of an elevator and cause major issues for an elevator in the future.

How Is It Fixed?

A technician will evaluate the elevator to detect the reasoning behind the jerky movements between monitoring the elevator system, safety devices, the controller, and other elevator components. Once the issue is located, the technician will most likely provide prompt repairs and adjustments, and close down the elevator for the time being so it can not be in use. At Buckley Elevator, we offer emergency services that are timely and efficient so that your elevator will be running smoothly in no time.

Trust Buckley Elevator with any commercial elevator service you need; with our prompt responsiveness, advanced maintenance protocols, and superior modernizations and repairs, we are leaders in this industry, ensuring that our work will keep your elevator safe and responsive.