How to Prepare your Elevator for Winter Months

Just like summer months, elevators can also be impacted during the winter. Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing for winter months. 

 Wind: Did you know that wind can impact elevator doors? It can keep them from working properly and can prevent doors from fully closing. This is due to the fact that elevator shafts act very similarly to chimneys. 

 Ice and Snow Buildup: Be sure to always be on alert for buildup of water, snow and ice in your lobby as well as in car door sills. Make sure to have a safe entrance and exit for passengers on an elevator. Tragic accidents can occur along with slips and falls, not to mention the possibility of costly lawsuits.

Lubrication: Dry winter air can interfere with the function and efficiency of an elevator. Make sure all rails are lubricated at all times in order to prevent friction between the rails and the elevator as it moves. The ideal temperature for hydraulic oil is between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. 

 Consistent Temperatures: It is important to keep all floors dry in the machine room. Keeping the rooms temperature controlled will ensure that motors and controls are working properly. Shifts from hot to cold temperature can create condensation which can cause electrical issues. Keeping up with routine maintenance can prevent these problems from occurring. 

Batteries: Always check your battery backup system! If there is a power outage during a snow storm you will need your batteries to be fully charged. Make sure batteries are always fully charged.

 Climate Control: Your elevator cars should be climate controlled, if not, you should have climate-controlled floors that you can have your elevator stay at when not in use. Buildings located in super cold areas should also have extra layers of insulation.