Purchasing a lift is undoubtedly a strategic investment that impacts the functionality, safety, and value of your property.
Before making this decision, it's important to evaluate key aspects such as the capacity and dimensions required for your intended use, whether it complies with European accessibility and safety regulations, and whether it includes low-power technology to reduce long-term costs.
1. What type of lift should I buy for my building?
This choice depends on certain characteristics such as building height, foot traffic, and budget. The main types are:
- Hydraulic lifts: for low buildings (up to 6 floors).
- Electric (traction) lifts: efficient for tall buildings (more than 6 floors).
- Pneumatic lifts: without machine room, perfect for renovations in smaller spaces (up to 4 floors).
- Lifts for single-family homes: compact (cabin for 2-3 people).
Available technologies and their characteristics
When purchasing a lift, you should also consider the most up-to-date technologies and how they adapt to the building's needs.
- Machine room less systems (MRL).
- Intelligent control.
- Accessibility.
- Energy efficiency.
- Security.
Advantages and disadvantages of each system
Hydraulics:
Advantage: easy maintenance.
Disadvantage: high energy consumption.
Electric (traction):
Advantage: high durability (up to 25 years).
Disadvantage: high initial cost.
Tires:
Advantage: quick installation (2-3 days).
Disadvantage: limited for tall buildings.
Pneumatic lifts:
Advantages: no invasive works.
Disadvantage: higher cost per trip.
When deciding to purchase a lift, the first thing you should know is the real needs of the building, and from there choose the most appropriate model.
2. What dimensions and space requirements do I need to consider?
In these cases, always carry out a prior technical study with a specialized engineer.
Hollow, pit and clearance height
- Pit: depth for the lowest stop level (minimum 1.2 m for hydraulic lifts, 1.5 m for electric ones).
- Gap: the vertical space for the cabin and counterweights. The minimum recommended is 1.1 x 1.4 m.
- Free height: distance from the top floor to the ceiling of the shaft (minimum 3.5 m for traditional engines, 2.7 m for systems without a machine room).
Common structural adaptations
- Reinforcement of forgings.
- Creation of engine room.
- Electrical installation.
- Sound insulation.
3. What load capacity and number of stops are suitable?
When purchasing a lift, these parameters depend on the use of the building.
Calculation of people and maximum weight
- Single-family homes: 2-4 people.
- Residential buildings: 6-8 people.
- Shopping or health centers: up to 21 people.
Nominal load vs. actual load: Never exceed 80% of the maximum capacity to ensure safety and energy efficiency.
Distribution of stops according to traffic
- For 2-4 stops, prioritize a central location to reduce wait times.
- Up to 15-20 stops: Use artificial intelligence systems that group destinations and optimize routes.
- High-speed lifts and quick-opening doors (1-2 seconds).
4. What noise level and speed does each lift offer?
It's essential to know that purchasing a lift involves balancing speed and acoustic comfort according to the use of the space.
Noise and speed: comfort criteria
- Hydraulics: low speed and high noise from the engine.
- Electric (traction): high speed and low noise.
- Tires: medium speed and moderate noise.
- Without engine room: quieter thanks to gearless motors.
Soundproofing and damping systems
- Sound insulation.
- Anti-vibration dampers.
- Silent doors.
- Floating floors.
5. What is the energy consumption and efficiency?
Purchasing an efficient lift reduces operating costs by up to 40%TP3T.
Energy-saving technologies and regenerative motors
- Permanent magnet motors that recover energy when braking.
- Variable frequency drives that adapt speed to demand, avoiding consumption peaks.
LED lighting and low-power modes
- LED lighting with presence sensors that turn off the cabin when not in use.
- Standby mode: reduces consumption to 0.5 kWh/day.
6. What is the total cost (installation, construction and maintenance)?
The initial cost of purchasing a lift can vary depending on multiple factors.
Budget broken down by items
- Standard lift (4 people): : €18,000-35,000 (hydraulic) or €40,000-70,000 (electric without engine room).
- Civil works: 5,000-20,000 € (hole, pit, reinforcements).
- Facility: €3,000-10,000 (depending on complexity).
Annual maintenance costs
- Basic: €800-1,500/year (quarterly check-ups, lubrication).
- Premium: €2,000-4,000/year (includes parts, 24-hour assistance).
With our professional advisors, you can get a quote tailored to your specific needs.
7. What installation timeframe and phases are contemplated?
Step-by-step timeline
- Technical study and permits: 2-8 weeks.
- Hole preparation: 1-3 weeks.
- Installation: 2-6 weeks.
- Testing and certification: 1 week.
Permits and administrative procedures
- Building permit: 1-3 months (depending on the city council).
- Technical inspection (ITE): 2-4 weeks.
8. What warranties and after-sales services does it include?
It is essential that, when purchasing a lift, you take into account the warranty.
Coverage and exclusions
- Manufacturer: : 2-5 years on mechanical components (engine, cabin).
- Facility: 1-2 years in civil works (welding, anchors).
Types of maintenance
- Corrective: for infrequently used lifts.
- Preventive: Scheduled checks that reduce breakdowns on the 60%. Includes lubrication, adjustments, and cleaning.
9. What regulations and licenses do I need to manage?
Legal requirements
- CE certification and safety marking.
- Safety standards in design and installation.
- Law on the Prevention of Occupational Risks.
Usual procedures
- Building permit from the city council.
- Communication to Industry.
- Final inspection.
10. What financing and grant options are available?
With the right advice when purchasing a lift, you can access various benefits.
State, regional and local aid
- State Housing Plan 2022-2025.
- Municipal subsidies.
Financing
- Leasing: : deductible monthly installments (interest on 4-6%), with a symbolic purchase option at the end.
- Renting: includes maintenance and renewal every 10-15 years (300-600 €/month).
- ICO Lifts Line: 10-year loans with a TIN of 3.5% for residential communities.
At Eleva Balear we are specialists in lift installation in Mallorca.
At Eleva Balear, lift specialists in Mallorca , we have extensive experience in:
- Custom installation.
- Premium maintenance.
- Regulatory compliance and energy efficiency (up to 40% less consumption).
Contact us! We offer personalized advice tailored to the specific needs of your project.
