Lifts or elevators are crucial in current times as they help people to move to various floors in the buildings. However, any mechanism may develop certain problems after continuous use, and these mechanisms are no exception either.
This blog discusses some common lift problems and how to fix them. It is important to be familiar with certain lift problems and ways of correcting them to ensure that the lift is operating as efficiently and safely as possible.
Are you looking for trustworthy and reliable lift specialists? Get in touch with Arrival Lifts. We are a responsive lift company operating across Surrey, Kent, London, and the wider south-east. We offer lift repairs, maintenance, installations, removals, and modernisations in commercial and residential sites.
“Whether you want to repair your old lift or install a new lift, Arrival lifts can do it all.”
Call us at 0208 544 4888 or send us your queries via email at enquiries@arrivallifts.com, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Here are some common lift problems and how to fix them:
1. Lift Not Moving
Every time one wishes to move from one floor to another using a lift, it is frustrating and inconvenient when it does not move! The common causes include power supply problems, control systems failure and problems with the door’s interlock mechanisms.
How to Fix:
- Check the Power Supply: Check whether the lift is switched on. Examine the circuit breaker and power supply.
- Inspect the Control System: Check the relevant circuit paths in the control panel
- Verify Door Interlocks: Ensure all doors are shut and closed to the required level with interlocking mechanisms. These are mechanical systems that, when faulty, counteract the movement of the lift from going up or down.
2. Lift Stopping Between Floors
The lift unexpectedly stopping between floors can be due to a break in the lifts control circuits, sensors, motors, and brakes.
How to Fix:
- Sensor Inspection: Check the sensors and make sure they are properly functioning and clear of any contamination that may hinder the sensors’ functioning.
- Control System Check: Search for the codes that signify an error and try to reboot if necessary. It may require a technician to inspect in detail before coming up with a conclusive diagnosis, as the problem may be more complex than previously assumed.
- Motor and Brake Check: Check the reaching condition of the motor as well as the brake system. Adjust or Replace components that no longer function as they should or have degraded in some way as necessary.
3. Doors Not Opening or Closing Properly
Lift doors need clearance operate efficiently and safely for commuters. If there is an obstruction in the tracks, error messages from the door sensors, or mechanical issues involving the door.
How to Fix:
- Clear Obstructions: Examine the door tracks and clear all sorts of dirt, stuff and anything that may hinder its way.
- Test Door Sensors: Cleaning the sensors and aligning the positions of the sensors correctly is recommended. Replace if faulty.
- Inspect Door Operators: If you observe mechanical wear and tear, the concerned person should be informed to conduct an inspection.
4. Lift Making Unusual Noises
Unusual noises produced by a lift are usually associated with a worn-out bearing, bent components, or maybe even a lack of lubrication.
How to Fix:
- Bearings and Pulleys: Closely check bearings and pulleys for excessive wear and replace them if necessary.
- Component Alignment: Make sure all hardware elements are properly positioned and locked in place to hold the unit together.
- Lubrication: Add some lubricants where friction reciprocation occurs, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Lift Non-Operation
If a lift fails to reach a floor or is out of service, it may have problems with the hydraulic or traction system, or it could be worn out and may have taken damage from overworking or overloading.
How to Fix:
- Hydraulic or Traction System: Check the hydraulic fluid level and the pump functioning, or motor and gear setup.
- Component Wear: Replace damaged or excessively worn-out parts, such as ropes, belts, or pulleys.
- Load Management: Avoid overloading lifts and observe the weight limit of the lift during use.
6. Lift Overheating
Lifts Overheat because of exposure to high temperatures, leading to a rapid rate of expansion, thus exerting tremendous pressure on lift components.
How to Fix:
- Motor Inspection: As recommended, check the motor or hydraulic operating temperature to ascertain its operant temperature range.
- Ventilation: Proper ventilation in the lift shaft & Motor room must be maintained.
- Usage Management: The overuse should be controlled in some way, and timely maintenance should be done.
7. Control Panel Malfunctions
There are many working components in a lift controller that can effect its running, as this is esentially the ‘brains’ of the lift –
How to Fix:
- Inspect Buttons and Switches: Replace buttons or switches that have stopped working giving feedback to the controller
- Check Wiring: Look for loose connections or faulty wires and tighten or repair them respectively.
- Component failure: Adjustment or replacement of specific relays, contactors, or boards may be necessary.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
It is important to prevent these problems so that lifts can work smoothly and safely. Here are some tips:
-
Regular Inspections
One should regularly organise check-ups by professionals to have any problem detected and fixed on time.
-
Lubrication
Ensure all rotating or sliding pieces remain oiled appropriately in accordance with your lift’s make and model.
-
Cleaning
Regular cleaning of the lift car, door tracks, and machine room must be done to avoid product accumulation.
-
Testing
It is recommended to functional check the lift functions during normal operations and during emergencies at set intervals.
Conclusion
Understanding the common lift problems and practising safe measures when making necessary lift checks can help to prevent lift disasters and lead to the efficient use of lift installations. As a general rule, if you are ever in any confusion or difficulty about something to do with your lift, consult with a lift technician.
