You may have heard of a single-person lift, and if not, it's easy to imagine what it is: a lift designed for a single person per trip. It doesn't exist as a specific legal category, but it's a fairly common term among architects, technicians, and companies in the sector, especially when referring to private homes, duplexes, or places with limited space where a large lift can't be accommodated.
This type of equipment has become a real option for those looking to improve mobility within their homes without major renovations. Beyond comfort, it can also add value to a home. All of this without the need for major construction or structural changes.
Compared to communal lifts, single-person lifts are much more compact, require less hassle to install, consume less energy, and, of course, are designed for occasional, private use, not for moving people around all day, as in an apartment building or office.
Main features of a single-person lift
These lifts are tailored to those who need to move between floors in spaces where everything is tight. That's why:
- They are compact: There are models that fit into gaps as small as 75 cm in diameter, in the case of tires, or in 80 × 80 cm cabins if they are square.
- Limited load: They are designed for one person, with a maximum weight that usually ranges between 150 and 250 kilos.
- Low speed: They don't go full speed, of course. Many don't go faster than 0.15 meters per second.
- Moderate electricity consumption: They connect to the normal household current (220V), so no complicated installations are necessary.
- Simple or almost non-existent workSome don't even require a pit or engine room, which saves both the budget and the hassle.
- Design that goes unnoticed: they do not clash with the style of the home and integrate quite well.
Differences between a single-person lift and a conventional one
Although they ultimately do the same thing—moving people up and down between floors—they don't work the same way, nor are they designed for the same purpose.
- Who are they used for?Conventional ones are found in communities, offices, hospitals, and other high-traffic spaces. Single-person ones, on the other hand, are designed for private homes.
- Ability: A communal lift can easily accommodate 4, 6, or 8 people. Here, it's just one.
- RegulationsCommunity lifts follow the Lift Directive. However, single-person lifts—depending on speed—can benefit from the Machinery Directive.
- Technical requirementsConventional ones require more infrastructure (pit, engine room, counterweight, etc.). Many single-person ones don't.
- Cost: both installing and maintaining it is cheaper in the case of a sole proprietorship.
Advantages of installing a single-person lift in a home
There's no single reason to install one. It depends on the case, but there are several points that usually come into play:
- Help with accessibility: for elderly people, those with reduced mobility, or those who simply no longer want to carry a load on stairs.
- Adds value to the house: This is something that many buyers or tenants value, especially if the home has several floors.
- More comfort: : carrying groceries, a suitcase, or even a small appliance effortlessly is a huge advantage.
- It does not need a major renovation: It can even be placed in places where a conventional lift cannot fit even with hammer blows.
- Careful aesthetics: There are models with finishes that can be customized, including some transparent ones, which look very good.
- Controlled energy expenditure: It is not a device that raises your electricity bill.
Disadvantages and limitations of a single-person lift
We also need to talk about what it doesn't cover. Because, while it's very practical, it's not for every situation:
- For one person only: Does not allow transporting several people or someone in a wheelchair in all models.
- Slower: It is not as fast as those in public buildings.
- Not all are accessible: There are versions that do not meet the minimum dimensions for reduced mobility.
- Less resistance if used a lot: If it is used very intensively, it may require more revisions.
Regulations governing single-person lifts
In Spain and the European Union, regulations vary depending on the speed of the equipment:
- If it exceeds 0.15 m/s, it falls into the category of conventional lift and must comply with Directive 2014/33/EU and UNE-EN 81-20 and 81-50 standards.
- If the speed is equal to or less than 0.15 m/s, it is considered a low-speed lift and is regulated by the Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC) and the UNE-EN 81-41 standard.
In practice, the installer must assess which regulations apply. However, regardless of the type, safety and maintenance are mandatory.
Types of single-person lifts available on the market
Not all of them work the same way or have the same amount of space. Here are some common types:
- Tires: They operate by vacuum, are usually made of glass, and have a cylindrical shape. Ideal for small spaces.
- Compact hydraulics: They have pistons and can be installed with a self-supporting structure. Perfect for multi-story homes.
- Single-person electrics: They use electric traction. They are quiet and quite efficient.
- Vertical platforms: designed to overcome a small difference in level, widely used in adapted houses.
Approximate cost of a single-person lift
The price varies depending on the model, number of stops, type of system, and whether or not work is required. As a guide:
- The most basic platforms can cost between 8,000 and 12,000 euros.
- Tires, which tend to have a more modern design, range from 12,000 to 18,000 euros.
- The most complete hydraulic or electric models can cost between 15,000 and 25,000 euros.
Added to this is maintenance, which, although cheaper than that of a community lift, is also mandatory.
Factors to consider before choosing a personal lift
There's no one-size-fits-all decision. You have to think carefully:
- Do you have enough space to install it?
- Do you need it for convenience, accessibility, or because you want to increase the value of your home?
- Which system suits you best?
- What regulations apply in your case?
- What expenses will you have now and in the future?
At Eleva Balear we are specialists in lift installation in Mallorca.
At Eleva Balear, we've been working with all types of lifts for years, and the single-person lift is one of the most frequently installed by those who want to improve their homes without complicating their lives.
We take care of everything: from studying your space to helping you choose the system that best suits you, always in compliance with regulations.
If you are thinking of installing a lift in Mallorca, write to us. We'll provide you with guidance without obligation and see what solution might work best for you.
