Residential elevators are becoming an increasingly common sight in homes across the USA. Quality of life is greatly improved with the installation of a residential elevator. Older Americans can stay in their homes for as long as they choose whilst keeping their independence. Added to which, a residential elevator is a life changer for those facing mobility challenges at home.

One of the most common initial questions we get at Lifton Home Elevators, is how safe is a residential elevator? Below we answer some of the most frequently asked questions we receive to get you started.

1) What happens in the event of a power outage?

This a really good question, because the residential elevator is powered by electricity. Should this happen, we have it covered. Thanks to a smart integrated battery back-up facility, the Lifton residential elevator will automatically descend gently to the lower floor of your property where you and any other passengers can wait for the power to return in comfort and safety.

We even offer the option of an uninterrupted power supply. This system can be installed at an extra cost but will allow for numerous trips both up and down while the main power to the residential elevator is off.

2) What happens if something obstructs the lift while it is moving?

The Lifton residential elevator has safety sensors fitted above and below the lift car which detect obstructions and smoothly stop the car if required. The elevator will only begin moving again once the obstruction has been removed. A full height light curtain, which is located at the entrance to the lift, also acts as a protective sensor. If the light curtain is crossed at any point during transit, the elevator will stop until the obstruction is removed.

3) How in control of the lift are you?

The Lifton residential elevator is fitted with ‘hold to run’ controls meaning the passenger operates and has total control of the elevator at all times when it is moving. If you stop pressing the button, the elevator will naturally come to a stop.

4) Can I fall out of a residential elevator?

It is not possible to fall out of the elevator. Lifton residential elevators are fitted with a self-closing, locking, hinged door which acts as a protective barrier when the elevator is in operation. The door lock only releases when the lift arrives safely at its destination.

5) Do home lifts have a weight limit?

Yes they do. Lifton residential elevators can carry a capacity of 170kg – that is 27 stone or 375 pounds and are kitted out with weight limit sensors. If this weight is exceeded, the elevator will not move. In addition, the elevator has sensors that can detect if it is out of balance. If it is, these will stop the elevator from moving. In the unlikely event the elevator travels too fast, an over speed sensor will stop it from travelling.

6) What happens when it is dark at night and I want to use the elevator?

The Lifton Home Elevator features attractive contemporary LED lights at the top and bottom of the car for your comfort of travel and ease of use at night.

At Lifton Home Elevators, we hope that this has helped some of your questions, however, if you will like to find out more please visit our FAQs page or home elevators range page, contact the team on (610) 419-3200 or complete the contact us page and we will get straight back to you at a time which is convenient to you.