Understanding The Elevator Removal Process

Removing or dismantling an elevator can seem like an elaborate, daunting task, and understanding the differences between removal and dismantling can be confusing. However, with the right information and an experienced team of elevator technicians, you can approach the task of decommissioning your elevator with confidence.

Our guide to elevator removal and dismantling can help demystify the process and clear up any confusion you may have. Keep reading to learn which is a better option for your business.

Elevator Removal

First, what is the difference between elevator removal and dismantling an elevator? While both processes decommission an elevator, there are several key differences.

Elevator removal means completely removing all parts of the elevator from the premises. After the elevator removal, the only remaining items in the building are the elevator’s vacant shaftway and motor room. All equipment and wiring are removed from the building entirely.

As a result, this is a more permanent and costly procedure than dismantling an elevator.

Dismantling an Elevator

To dismantle an elevator is much less expensive than elevator removal. However, dismantling still legally decommissions the elevator. This is a good option if you don’t currently have the budget for removal or need a less-permanent way to decommission an elevator. Dismantling allows for future restoration of the elevator, but without having to service and maintain an elevator that is not presently being used.

In the dismantling process, electric wires, cables, and other elevator parts are removed. The elevator car and counterweight are safely lowered and landed at the elevator pit with the elevator car doors sealed shut. After dismantling, there is no source of power to the elevator.

Exactly what elevator components are removed during dismantling depends on the type of elevator in question. In traction elevators, the hoist ropes are removed. In hydraulic elevators, the drive unit and system piping are removed, and all hydraulic fluid is removed from the elevator and off the premises entirely. Platform lifts are simply removed from the premises, while enclosed lifts have the main power removed.

In all types of elevators and lifts, all landing doors are permanently closed from the shaftway side during dismantling, with the exception of the bottom landing. All doors are mechanically secured with bolts from the inside, while the bottom landing is padlocked from the landing side. There should never be an open landing, as this poses a significant safety risk. Additionally, proper signage denoting an open shaftway should be posted at each landing.

Both elevator removal and elevator dismantling create a legally decommissioned elevator. Regardless of whether it’s removed or properly dismantled, a decommissioned elevator no longer requires annual permits or inspections.

The permanence of elevator decommissioning needed, as well as your budget for the decommissioning process, will inform whether removal or dismantling is best for you.

Learn More About Elevator Dismantling vs. Removal

For expert advice on the elevator decommissioning process, or to have your elevator professionally removed or dismantled, contact Champion Elevator today.