Lift and Elevator Modernization Costs
Costs for modernization can range from $200 to $300 to upgrade fixtures and railings inside the cab to $8,000 or $10,000 to replace the control system. If your elevator is not running smoothly or you want to increase the energy efficiency of the unit, then the installation of a new motor or piston will run in the $10,000 to $15,000 range.
There are several advantages to modernization:
Improved energy efficiency
Reduced wait times
Faster ride
Smoother ride
Improved safety & reliability
Reduced calls to service company
Updated look and feel
Minimized noise and vibration
Typical Repairs for an Elevator or Stair Lift
Task
Highest Avg. Cost
Door hardware (Electrical)
$800
Door hardware (Mechanical)
$1,200
Replace landing entrance doors
$2,800
Piston
$3,000
Travelling cables
$3,000
Cab operating panels
$4,000
Cab wiring
$4,000
Replace controller wiring
$4,000
Piston gripper installation
$15,000
Motor replacement
$11,500
Prices of Stair Lift Fixes
The most common is the replacement of the battery which typically costs between $50 and $100.
Replacing Elevator & Part Costs
A full replacement could cost as much as $20,000, so this should be weighed against the expense of anticipated repairs. Depending on the age, continual maintenance can become expensive. At some point, it will make sense to replace some major components rather than repairing them. A new elevator should last between 20 to 30 years. One that has had its drive system (motor, pistons, cables) and controls replaced should last the same 2 to 3 decades.
Common Problems
Elevators and stair lifts are prone to certain types of problems related to their functioning. Some of the most common issues that owners experience includes: the device getting stuck, its call box not working, odd noises, and jumpy or bumpy rides. Property owners may also notice unusually high energy use, slow operation, or increased down time. A lack of routine maintenance may increase the frequency of system breakdowns and problems.
Elevator:
Stair Lift:
Repair Your Elevator or Chair Lift with the Help of a Pro
Considerations for Stair Lift and Elevator Repairs
When investing to fix an elevator or stair lift, there are several factors to take into consideration:
Factors that affect the cost of stair lift repairs:
Factors that affect the cost of elevator repairs.
Warranty and Insurance
Elevators and lifts will typically carry a warranty for a period of time (usually a year) after the device is installed where both parts and labor are covered. This may be followed by another year in which the manufacturer covers the price of the parts, but the homeowner pays for the labor.
Minimizing the impact of expensive home repairs can often justify the price of a home warranty, but check with your carrier make sure that your elevator or lift is explicitly listed on the warranty. Likewise, you should check with your homeowner's insurance to confirm that your unit is listed in the policy or your insurance may not cover repair or replacement in the case of major damage to your home. Medicare and/or your health insurance may cover some of the expense of installing a lift in your home. If your doctor prescribes the use of a lift it may be considered by your insurance to be necessary durable medical equipment (DME). Check with your health insurance provider to see if this is covered and what portion of the price it may cover.
Many seniors are planning to spend their retirement years aging in place in their current home. Meet your mobility needs with adaptions that are right for you. There may even be grants available for you to make accessibility modifications to your home.
Residential vs. Commercial
Commercial elevators have further considerations.
Consult with a Contractor For Repairs