Know Your Elevator
Series 12
Series 12
Elevator Maintenance – Ensuring Long-term Efficiency and Safety
While we’ve explored every aspect of elevators and their installation, maintenance is the key to ensuring the longevity, safety, and smooth operation of your elevator system. Just like any critical system in life, regular upkeep is not a luxury but a necessity. Here are some practical tips to keep your elevator in top condition:
Types of Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMCs)
The market offers three primary types of AMCs:
1. Comprehensive AMC
- Covers materials, labor, and housekeeping.
- Excludes damages caused by external factors such as erratic power supply or poor-quality electricity.
- Though it comes at a higher cost compared to other contracts, it’s akin to paying an insurance premium, offering peace of mind and extensive coverage.
2. Semi-Comprehensive AMC
- Excludes certain parts from coverage
- This can create challenges for owners when specific replacements or repairs are needed, as decisions on exclusions may not always be straightforward.
3. Oil and Greasing Contract
- Provides basic maintenance, including lubrication of parts.
- This is the most cost-effective but offers limited support and is not ideal for long-term reliability.
Recommendations for Effective Maintenance
1. Opt for Comprehensive AMC
- A comprehensive contract ensures all critical areas are covered, minimizing unexpected expenses and downtime. It’s the most secure option for maintaining an elevator’s performance.
2. Conduct Regular Third-Party Audits
- Engaging a third-party auditor to assess the elevator’s health is highly recommended.
- Audits verify compliance with maintenance standards and help identify issues that may have been overlooked by the service provider.
- In case of incidents, audit reports serve as a valuable document for both the owner and the service provider, ensuring accountability.
3. Leverage Smart Service Apps
- Many manufacturers now provide service apps that facility managers or designated society members can install on their smartphones.
- These apps enable real-time tracking of maintenance schedules, service logs, and even financial transactions related to the elevator.
4. Consult an Elevator Expert
- Before signing an AMC, it is advisable to have the contract reviewed by an elevator consultant.
- A professional review ensures the scope of work is clearly defined, eliminating ambiguities and ensuring all critical aspects are covered.
