5 Insider Secrets About Home Elevators: What You Need to Know

The world of home elevators may seem like a niche market, but beneath the surface, it’s a thriving industry with various players, from industry giants like Kone and Otis to specialized home lift manufacturers like Kalea Lift. Within this industry, there are several well-kept secrets that industry insiders are privy to. In this extensive article, we’ll uncover these hidden truths, ensuring that all customers have a comprehensive understanding before making decisions about their home elevator.

KALEA Lift – X80 is home elevators and suitable for homes

Secret #1: Not All Lifts are Suitable for Homes

Contrary to what some elevator companies may lead you to believe, not all lifts are well-suited for residential use. Traction lifts, for example, are primarily designed for high-rise buildings and high-traffic areas, making them overkill for the average home. These lifts are akin to using a bus for the transportation of a single person.

In contrast, screw-driven elevators are far more practical for homes. They optimize space efficiently, requiring less room than traction lifts while offering more standing space for passengers. Additionally, screw-driven lifts don’t necessitate a machine room or a pit, resulting in minimal civil works and no damage to a home’s foundations. Moreover, these lifts often provide rooftop access, adding another layer of functionality to your home.

KALEA Lift since 1898 from Sweden and KALEA KOSMOS X30 is sophistication and stlye to your decor.

Secret #2: Choose Your Supplier Wisely

One of the critical secrets in the home elevator industry is to carefully select your supplier. The barriers to entry in this market are relatively low, and countless dealers pop up annually, selling products from various manufacturers around the world. Unfortunately, just as many dealers vanish, leaving customers with elevators that no one can service or, in worse cases, no elevator at all.

To avoid such pitfalls, it’s advisable to prioritize buying directly from the manufacturer. This way, you can be confident that the company is stable and committed to its products. Buying directly from the factory also eliminates the risk of the supplier abruptly shifting to other products offering higher profit margins. Furthermore, considering the company’s longevity is crucial; if a company has been in business for a short period but offers extended warranties, be cautious. Kalea Lift, for instance, has been in the business of selling lifts since 1947, a testament to the quality of its products and services.

Secret #3: Two Business Models

In the home lift market, you’ll find two primary business models

“Razor Business Model”

This model involves selling the elevator at a low entry price but making profits from expensive maintenance services. Many companies adopt this approach, luring customers in with affordable initial costs and then locking them into costly cable changes or hydraulic oil top-ups.

“Sustainable Pricing Model”

In this model, elevators are sold at a reasonable price, and maintenance costs are kept to a minimum. Elevators that fall into this category require fewer maintenance visits per year, typically around 1-2 visits.

You can discern which model a company follows by inquiring about the number of annual maintenance visits required. Screw-driven elevators generally fall into the latter category, while traction and hydraulic elevators may require up to 12 maintenance visits per year, aligning with the “Razor Business Model.”

KALEA Kosmos X50 is maintenance 2 times per year and We has spare part home elevators.

Secret #4: Maintenance and Spare Parts Costs Are Separate

Many customers are surprised to discover that maintenance costs do not cover the replacement of broken parts. While maintenance may appear inexpensive, it typically encompasses the labor required for routine service visits. Any components that need replacing are charged separately and often at a high premium.

To manage this cost effectively, it’s essential to consider the complexity of the elevator system. Traction systems, with their many intricate parts, are prone to frequent repairs, which can be costly. These repairs may include cable replacements or motor repairs. Hydraulic systems, although simpler, rely on expensive hydraulic oil top-ups. In contrast, screw-driven systems are more straightforward, with the main spare parts being emergency batteries.

Antera Z Series is high end glass home elevators.

Secret #5: Not All Glass is Created Equal

Glass elevators have gained popularity, but it’s crucial to inquire about the type of glass your supplier uses. Some manufacturers attempt to cut costs by offering only tempered glass. While tempered glass is safer as it doesn’t produce sharp shards when broken, it is still relatively fragile and can shatter easily.

For a top-of-the-line glass elevator, opt for tempered and laminated glass. Although it comes at a higher cost, it offers significant safety benefits. Laminated glass, unlike regular tempered glass, does not shatter. Instead, it behaves similarly to a car windshield, maintaining its integrity even when damaged. In the event of breakage, laminated glass does not create a dangerous hole in the shaft, reducing safety risks and providing a continuous shaft until a technician can replace the glass panel.

Conclusion

The world of home elevators is more intricate than it appears on the surface. By delving into these five insider secrets, you gain a deeper understanding of the industry, which is invaluable when making decisions about home elevators. These insights empower you to make informed choices, ensuring that your home elevator not only enhances your living space but also aligns with your specific needs, budget, and safety concerns.

These well-kept industry secrets are just the beginning. As the home elevator market continues to evolve, more insights may emerge. If you have additional secrets or valuable information to share, we encourage you to get in touch with us via email. Your input can contribute to a greater understanding of this dynamic and ever-changing industry.

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