Among those who frequently use them, it's common to wonder: why do lifts get stuck? The reality is that breakdowns occur for a variety of reasons. From problems with the drive system to exceeding the recommended weight limit. There are many reasons that cause problems in their operation.
In today's article, you'll learn about the different reasons that cause lift jams and how to resolve them.
Main Causes of Lift Jams
Failures in the Traction System
These are common causes that can occur due to cable wear, daily use, and unexpected stops. Failures in the drive system can also be caused by motor, pulley, and brake failures. When evaluating why lifts are stuck, these components must be examined.
Regular inspections and preventive maintenance are essential to prevent drive system failures. Otherwise, the cab is prone to losing its position and moving less smoothly, or even becoming completely stuck.
Problems with the Lift Doors
Doors that don't open or close properly are another common lift malfunction. When the proper functioning of the lift is uncoordinated, it becomes prone to jamming. This usually occurs due to misaligned rails or faulty sensors.
Once you understand the reasons why lifts get stuck, identifying the root of this problem is a simple process. Aside from the reasons mentioned above, the door can fail due to a lack of lubrication, electrical faults, or improperly adjusted doors.
Overload and Excess Weight
Inside the cabin of every lift, there is a plate indicating the maximum weight capacity it can carry. Exceeding this limit causes the lift to have to work harder to raise and lower. Over time, regular excess weight causes lift components to begin to fail.
Investigating the common causes of lift jams, this is one of the most frequent. Especially because many users completely ignore the premature wear that overloading can cause.
Lack of Preventive Maintenance
Ignoring the importance of preventive maintenance leads to blockages and other common problems in lift operation. Lack of basic maintenance reduces the lifts' lifespan, as malfunctions go undetected and escalate into major failures.
Lack of preventive maintenance is not only one of the main causes of traffic jams. It's also one of the most common causes of accidents. When they stop working properly, users are exposed to many risks.
Power Outages
When asked why lifts get stuck, power outages are a common response. These completely stop the lift from working, potentially trapping passengers inside.
Frequent power outages significantly reduce lift efficiency. They impair the smooth operation of lifts, requiring costly repairs to ensure public safety.
How to Prevent a Lift from Getting Stuck?
Importance of Regular Maintenance
For lifts to function properly, regular maintenance is essential. Depending on their daily use, the frequency of preventive maintenance may vary. It is recommended once every four months for single-family homes, every six weeks for residential buildings, and once a month for all other buildings.
With regular maintenance, you won't have to wonder why your lifts keep getting stuck. This service should include cleaning, lubrication, leveling, and alignment. It's also important to inspect the emergency systems.
Correct Use of the Lift by Users
Promoting good habits is essential to prevent lift breakdowns. It is crucial that all users understand proper lift use and respect its limitations to ensure optimal performance.
Good user practices include respecting the maximum capacity, pressing buttons correctly, and avoiding forcing doors.
Review of Key Components (Cables, Pulleys, Motors, etc.)
When examining the reasons why lifts get stuck, key components are also elements that can fail, especially when they don't receive proper care. Motors, cables, pulleys, safety systems, and other items should be inspected at least once a year.
Inspecting key components helps determine their condition and detect potential failures. Functional tests can verify their endurance to confirm whether they require preventive repair or replacement.
Safety Systems to Avoid Traffic Jams
Modern lifts come with factory-installed safety systems. However, additional features can be installed to reduce potential risks and facilitate reliable daily use. The most effective safety systems for preventing jams are:
- Oscillating or centrifugal speed limiter to slow down the movement.
- Instantaneous or progressive parachute system to stop the cabin.
- Accumulation and dissipation shock absorbers to absorb impacts.
- Anti-drift system to detect unevenness and balance the lift.
What to Do if a Lift Gets Stuck?
Stay Calm and Don't Try to Force Your Way Out
Once you know the reasons why lifts get stuck, you need to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. In situations where the lift gets stuck, the first thing to keep in mind is not to panic.
Stay calm and don't take any action on your own to force your way out. Even if the situation is distressing, just be patient and wait for specialized personnel.
Use the Emergency Button and Call a Technician
Locate the emergency button in the lift to alert the appropriate authorities. If you have your cell phone handy, call a technician or someone to notify them of your situation.
After seeking help, wait patiently and conserve your energy until professionals resolve the situation.
If you would like more information on this aspect, we recommend reading: What to do when a lift fails?
At Eleva Balear we are specialists in lifts
Here at Eleva Balear , we understand the importance of lift jams, and we care about your safety. Our team of lift preventative maintenance specialists has the experience to assist you. Contact us to schedule an appointment and give your lift the care it deserves.
