If you are looking for how much does elevator modernization cost, this post should help! For starters, a full elevator modernization will cost you around $175,000 on average. Depending on the type of elevator you own, these costs could be a little more or a little less.
Finding Affordable Elevator Solutions
Modern technology is for more than skyscrapers. When it comes to new construction or the existing construction of low to mid-rise buildings, advanced elevator systems are now available. For instance, Machine Room-Less (MRL) technology is new advanced hoisting machinery available for elevators and is gaining popularity within newer construction for midrise buildings. The requirement of mechanical rooms on rooftops or in basements are eliminated with the use of MRL elevators, which saves space.
In addition, there is a great amount of energy saved by using MRL elevators, as they require much less electricity to operate. As motors are built within the hoistway, it eliminates the need for an energy supply room to be built. Compared to a conventional elevator, an MRL elevator creates less heat.
Although it costs more to install an MRL elevator compared to conventional elevators, it will be cheaper overall. According to Scott, an elevator consultant with Arizona Elevator Solutions, “MRL elevators are a little more expensive compared to traditional elevators, but enable the architects to offer clients less expensive construction options, as they do not need to build an additional structure for machinery. In addition, this improves the building’s health.”
How Much Does Elevator Modernization Cost?
- Modernize Fixtures & Railings Cost: $250 average
- Modernize Control System Cost: $12,500 average
- Full Elevator Modernization Cost: $175,000 average
Make Your Own Energy To Save More Money
If you’re trying to go green, you can’t get better than creating your own energy. The use of regenerative drives help recaptures the energy that dissipates into heat as elevators use the brakes, turning the motor into a generator that feeds energy back into the main power grid.
Scott says, “If an elevator is modernized, you add the regenerative drives as an option. The efficiency of the system is so great, any additional power gets resent back to the building.” Although regenerative drives are nearly twice as expensive as traditional drives, in the long-term they are able to save between 20% to 40% of total energy use.
When to Modernize Your Elevator(s)
Prior to elevators being operated by computers, an elevator had a lifespan of 20 to 25 years. Scott added, “Today, we are seeing elevator systems being switched out between 18 to 20 years, due to the constant electricity flowing throughout the computer systems.” Additionally, when flow variations occur from Con Edison, it’s commonly impossible to locate the replacement parts. Over time, manufacturers get acquired by larger companies and product lines are discontinued.
An operator is able to review the service call history with the maintenance company used to obtain an idea of the elevators overall health. If service interruptions occur frequently, it can be a sign the major system should be replaced.
Any time elevators are showing clear signs of an issue, an independent consultation company needs to be called in for assessing the situation and determining which parts should be replaced, which parts can be salvaged, etc.
Scott says, “elevators have hundreds of parts. We examine each link within a chain to determine the issue, and based on professional judgement provide a cost for repairing or replacing.”
It Could Get Complicated
According to Scott, “In buildings under 20 years old, modernizing elevators are rather simple due to the systems being designed according to ADA regulations and more recent building codes. However, with older buildings, an application must be filled out. For example, to switch out an elevator control panel, which triggers compliance requirements.” This complicates the process, more so after the elevator provisions were extensively revised with NYC Building Codes in 2009.
The average cost for a comprehensive modernization within a six-story New York City building ranges between $125,000 and $150,000 per elevator. Because a taller building will require elevators to be faster, this range increases between $150,000 and $250,000.
There are times independent reviews could indicate that some major components require replacing, but not all of them. In these situations, it could be worth the additional expense to have a full modernization. According to Scott, “You will be spending a great amount either way, and the elevator will be out of service for a significant period of time.”
Keep in mind, if your elevator system is currently between 10 and 15 years old, with the current lifespan of an elevator being 18 to 20 years it is likely other components will begin going out within a few years.
Elevator Modernization In Arizona
If you are thinking about elevator modernization in Arizona, we can help! Arizona Elevator Solutions is your go to elevator specialists that can handle anything from elevator repair and maintenance to elevator modernization and upgrades. Get a free elevator modernization quote from Arizona Elevator Solutions today!