Sandoval Answers: “Do Elevators Need to Be on Emergency Power?”

Do elevators need to be on emergency power? The short answer is yes. In fact, building codes require that elevators in multi-story buildings need at least 90 minutes of backup power to ensure the safety of passengers in the event of a power outage. So, what type of emergency power options exist for elevators? Let’s take a look:

Types of Emergency Power Options for Elevators

There are several emergency power options for elevators. The traditional solution is to use a standby automatic backup generator. However, this option has some drawbacks as it requires regular maintenance, emits unclean emissions, and can be noisy.

An increasingly popular solution is the use of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) battery backup systems. A UPS system is a power backup designed to ensure uninterrupted service in the event of a sudden power failure. The system provides a continuous supply of clean, battery-based energy to keep the elevator running during an outage. This ensures passengers can safely evacuate from the building and those with mobility issues are not stranded when the power goes out.

In addition to the safety benefits, emergency power for elevators is required by law. Buildings that do not comply with the requirement risk failing a building inspection and could be denied a permit to operate.

Sandoval Elevator is Here to Help

To sum up, elevators must be on emergency power. Not only is it required by law, but it ensures the safety of passengers in the event of a power outage. At Sandoval Elevator, we understand the importance of having an emergency power source for elevators and can help you select the right one for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you protect people in your building from potential risks associated with a power outage.

Why Sandoval is the Top Elevator Company in Arizona & Colorado

Tired of unreliable elevator service companies leaving you stuck between floors? Then you need to partner with Sandoval Elevator today! We are the top elevator company for Arizona and Colorado businesses and provide top-notch elevator services to ensure your vertical transportation system runs smoothly for years to come. Here are four reasons why we’re the best elevator service company for your building.

1. Specialization in “The Big Three” Service Offerings

When it comes to elevators, maintenance, repair, and modernization are the most essential aspects of service. That’s why we specialize in “The Big Three” service offerings and focus solely on providing these services for low-rise buildings and hydraulic elevators. Our specialization ensures we have the expertise and experience to provide exceptional service and get the job done right.

2. Industry-Specific Services

We provide elevator service for various industries, including commercial properties, hotels/resorts, assisted living facilities, multi-family apartment/condominium homes, storage facilities, commercial development firms, manufacturing facilities, schools, and municipalities. Our industry-specific services ensure that our clients receive tailored services that meet their unique needs.

3. Experience and Expertise

Our dedicated team of highly trained technicians has spent years perfecting their craft, developing expertise that’s second to none in the industry. This commitment to excellence has earned us a reputation for exceptional service that sets us apart from the competition. When you trust Sandoval Elevator, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best elevator services in Arizona and Colorado.

4. Commitment to Customer Service

At Sandoval Elevator, we are committed to providing the best possible customer service. We understand that elevator maintenance, repair, and modernization can be stressful, and we work hard to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We pride ourselves on our communication skills and commitment to always keeping our clients informed throughout the process.

Choose Sandoval Elevator as Your Elevator Company in AZ & CO

Trust the experienced team at Sandoval Elevator to provide top-quality elevator maintenance, modernization, and repair services in Colorado and Arizona. From choosing the right elevator to keeping it running smoothly, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to learn more about our elevator service offerings.

Here’s What Causes an Elevator to Stop Working: 5 Factors

Elevators are a common part of modern life, allowing us to move easily and quickly between the floors of low-rise and high-rise buildings. However, like any mechanical system, elevators are subject to breakdowns and malfunctions. But what causes an elevator to stop working? Let’s look at five factors that may be causing your elevator to stop functioning properly.

1. Power Outages

The most common cause of elevator failure is a power outage. Elevators require a constant supply of electricity to operate, and if the power is interrupted for any reason, the elevator will stop working. In most cases, elevators are equipped with backup power systems such as generators or batteries to ensure that passengers can safely exit the elevator in the event of a power failure.

2. Mechanical Malfunctions

Elevators are complex machines with numerous moving parts, and any one of these parts can malfunction and cause the elevator to stop working. Some common mechanical malfunctions affecting an elevator include broken cables, faulty doors, malfunctioning motors, and worn-out brakes.

3. Overloading

Elevators are designed to carry a specific weight limit, and if that limit is exceeded, the elevator may stop working. Overloading an elevator can cause the motor to overheat or trip the elevator’s safety sensors, which will cause the elevator to halt.

4. Sensor Problems

Elevators are equipped with various sensors that help ensure safe operation. If any of these sensors malfunction, the elevator may stop working. For example, the elevator may have a motion sensor that detects when someone is in the elevator, and if this sensor fails, the elevator may not operate.

5. Maintenance Issues

Like any machine, elevators require regular maintenance to keep them operating smoothly. If an elevator is not properly maintained, it may be more prone to malfunctions and breakdowns. Regular maintenance can help to identify and fix potential problems before they become serious in the future.

How Sandoval Elevator Can Help

If you’re experiencing issues with your elevator in Arizona and Colorado, call Sandoval Elevator ASAP. Our team of experienced professionals will help you identify and address any problems with your elevator quickly and efficiently. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a new elevator installation, we have the expertise and resources to get the job done right. Reach out to our team to learn how we can help keep your elevator running smoothly and reliably for years to come.

What to Include in an Elevator Maintenance Checklist

You might not think about it often, but your elevator is one of the most essential parts of your commercial building, and keeping it well-maintained is crucial to ensuring its longevity and safe operation. That’s why partnering with an elevator maintenance company like Sandoval Elevator is essential to keeping your elevator in peak condition for years to come.

Now you may be wondering, what is elevator maintenance? Elevator maintenance is a comprehensive suite of services that includes routine inspection, repair, and replacement of components in an elevator system. This maintenance should be performed regularly by trained professionals to ensure the safe operation of your elevator and to reduce the risk of unexpected outages or mechanical failure.

When performing elevator maintenance, elevator technicians follow a comprehensive elevator maintenance checklist to identify potential risks caused by equipment defects and ensure the elevator is safe for operation. Let’s take a look at the essential items an elevator technician will inspect on their elevator maintenance checklist:

Inside the Elevator Car

When examining the inside of an elevator car, an elevator technician will check its interior and note any damage to the inside components like walls or handrails. They’ll also inspect and replace the lights with new bulbs if required. From here, they’ll test the operation of the elevator car by having it go up and down. This will help them determine if it’s leveling correctly and accelerating/deaccelerating at the right speed. Next, they’ll make sure the door opens and closes correctly and make any necessary repairs.

Outside the Elevator Car

After examining the inside of the elevator car, the elevator technician will examine its external components. This involves checking the lights and hall stations, replacing any burnt-out bulbs, inspecting the door panels and clearances, and testing the fire alarm systems and smoke detectors.

Top of the Elevator Car

Once the inside and outside of the elevator car have been examined, the elevator technician will inspect the top of the car. This involves removing debris, checking the stop switch and inspection station function, inspecting rollers, guide rails, and leveling devices, and checking the cables for wear and tear. The elevator technician will also thoroughly inspect the door operator, its components, and the hoistway to ensure they’re in good condition.

The Elevator Pit

Now that the elevator car has been thoroughly inspected, it’s time to examine the elevator pit. Here is where the elevator technician will clean the pit, note any signs of leaks, and ensure it can be properly accessed. They’ll also inspect the car frame and all visible elevator components, like guide rails, rollers, and spring buffers, for any signs of wear and tear. In addition, they’ll examine the sump pump and ensure it operates efficiently and inspect the travel cables of the elevator for any snags and weathering.

The Elevator Machine Room

Finally, the elevator technician will examine the machine room and ensure it’s used solely for the elevator. If any materials interfere with the elevator, they will remove them. While in the machine room, the elevator technician will examine critical components for weathering and leaks, ensure the electrical wiring is safe, check the oil levels, and lubricate any parts if required. Once complete, they will schedule a follow-up service and inform you of any time-sensitive adjustments that need to be made.

Choose Sandoval for Elevator Maintenance in AZ & CO

Making elevator maintenance a priority for your business is one of the best things you can do to keep your elevator equipment running properly and avoid costly repairs or downtime. Call Sandoval Elevator for all your elevator maintenance needs.

• Arizona Office: (480) 502-0175
• Colorado Office: (303) 482-0904

Sandoval Elevator Answers, “How Do Elevators Work?”

How do elevators work? It’s a question we’ve all asked at one time or another. After all, they’re such an integral part of our everyday lives, yet most of us don’t know how they really operate. Thankfully, the team at Sandoval Elevator is here to shed some light on the subject. Continue reading to learn about the inner workings of these amazing machines.

The Basic Mechanics of an Elevator

An elevator system is composed of several components that work together to move people and goods from one floor to another. The most essential components include the motor, drive system, cab, shafts, doors, hoist ropes, and control systems

The motor provides power for the whole system by moving a belt or chain connected to gears which in turn moves the cab. The drive system is responsible for transferring power from the motor to the cab and controlling its speed and direction. The cab, or car, is the main part of the elevator that carries passengers and cargo up and down in a controlled manner

The shafts are vertical passageways that link each floor together where the cab travels. Doors open and close to allow passengers or goods to enter, while the hoist ropes connect the cab to the drive system and are responsible for keeping it securely in place as it moves up and down. The control systems are responsible for monitoring the operation of all components, as well as managing user access.

These components come together to create a safe and efficient elevator system that can transport people and goods from one floor to the next.

The Different Types of Elevator Systems

The different types of elevators vary from hydraulic and geared to gearless traction and machine-room-less. Each system has its own unique features and advantages, along with characteristics that make it a suitable option for certain building designs.

Key Elevator Safety Features

Elevators are a convenient form of transportation, and elevators equipped with safety features ensure that the ride is as safe as possible. These safety features include:

• Safety brakes
• Door closing devices, sensors, and restraints
• Emergency alarm switches, communication devices, lighting, and power
• Hoistway safety switches and door interlocks
• Pit buffers
• Fire emergency systems

Importance of Elevator Maintenance and Repair

Elevators are complex machines requiring regular maintenance and repair to ensure safety, reliability, and performance. It is essential that professional technicians regularly inspect elevators to keep them functioning properly.

Furthermore, any elevator part becoming inoperable should be inspected and repaired immediately to prevent further damage or harm. Keeping your elevator serviced regularly helps guarantee smooth operation while preventing larger emergencies down the road.

Choose Sandoval Elevator for all Your Elevator Needs!

If you’re looking for an elevator company you can trust, look no further than Sandoval Elevator. Our experienced team can help you choose the right type of elevator for your project, maintain them, and modernize them to make them like new.

We maintain all types of elevators for commercial businesses in Colorado and Arizona and specialize in hydraulic elevators. Contact us today to learn more about our services!

5 Signs It’s Time to Consider an Elevator Modernization

As a building owner, the last thing you want to hear is that your elevators are running slowly and creating a long queue in the lobby. But if they are, it may be time to consider elevator modernization, which is the process of improving elevator parts that improve performance, increase safety, and enhance the machine’s aesthetics.

Here are five clear signs that indicate your elevator requires modernization.

1. It’s Old and Outdated

If your elevator is more than 20 years old or has been poorly maintained, it may be time to update it. Older and outdated elevators are less efficient and can have slower response times than modernized versions. Replacing aging equipment with newer parts can help reduce energy costs over time.

2. It’s Malfunctioning or Breaking Down Often

Over time, elevator parts deteriorate and become less reliable, causing the machine to malfunction and break down. This is not only frustrating but can also be dangerous and lead to a loss of trust in the building.

When your elevator is causing disruptions, it’s critical to update its five major components, including the controller, power unit, fixtures, door operator and equipment, and code building upgrades. Modernizing these parts can increase safety, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure the machine operates at peak performance.

3. It Requires Frequent Repairs

Does your elevator require frequent repairs for it to operate efficiently? If so, this is a key sign it’s time to consider an elevator modernization project. By upgrading your machine, you’ll be able to implement modern solutions that improve elevator safety and save you money on costly maintenance and repair fees.

4. It Fails to Meet Safety Standards

Elevators that are old or have been poorly maintained may not meet current safety standards set by local and federal regulations. Modernizing an elevator with new safety features ensures the highest level of safety for building occupants.

5. It Doesn’t Fit the Building’s Design

If an elevator was installed many years ago, it might look out of place in the building’s current design. To meet the new look and feel of the building, it’s important to modernize the elevator’s aesthetics, including its cab interior. At Sandoval Elevator, our cab interior package for modernization projects includes updating the elevator’s walls, handrails, and ceiling and adding custom upgrades to the machine. This ensures the elevator fits in perfectly with the building’s design.

Choose Sandoval Elevator Company for All Your Elevator Needs!

If you’re looking for an elevator company you can trust, look no further than Sandoval Elevator Company. Our experienced team can help you choose the right type of elevators for your project, maintain them, and modernize them to make them like-new.

We maintain all types of elevators for commercial businesses in Colorado and Arizona and specialize in hydraulic elevators. Contact us today to learn more about our services!

7 Considerations for Designing Elevator Cab Interiors

When you step into an elevator, the first thing you notice is the cab’s interior. To ensure your elevator’s cab leaves a positive first impression and experience for passengers, it’s essential to ensure they’re well-designed. Here are five considerations to remember when designing elevator cab interiors.

 1. Passenger Load & Elevator Usage

One of the most important considerations regarding elevator cab design is passenger load and elevator usage. Depending on how many people travel in your elevator per day, you may want to include larger interior dimensions or two elevator doors in your design for efficient passenger flow. Also, if the elevator is frequently used, you should consider using durable materials resistant to scratches, dents, and scuffs.

2. Safety & Security

Another key consideration when designing elevator cabs is safety and security. This includes ensuring your elevator has the appropriate safety features installed, such as visual and audible alarms, security cameras, fire-rated and UL-approved materials, and emergency contact buttons. In addition, it’s essential to ensure your elevator meets all safety and security regulations set by federal, state, and local governing organizations.

3. Design & Comfort

While functional considerations are important, an elevator cab design must be visually appealing and comfortable for passengers. It’s essential to use materials and finishes that are attractive and features that improve passenger comfort, such as ambient lighting or heating and cooling systems.

At Sandoval Elevator, we offer premium and high-quality cab interior styles, including our three most popular: Montlake, Eastlake, and Newcastle. Each of our cab interior designs comes equipped with the following features:

• Unique interlocking laminate wall panels in a variety of colors and designs
• Stainless steel reveals and base ensuring durability and a custom finished look
• ADA-mounted handrails on the rear and both side walls; choose between a round or flat design in a stainless-steel finish
• LED Down Light Ceilings providing perfect, energy-efficient lighting
• Fire-rated and UL-approved materials by all authorities having jurisdiction

4. Building Functionality

When considering the design of your elevator’s cab, it’s essential to think about the building’s functionality. This is because an elevator cab design will be much different for an assisted living facility versus a manufacturing facility.

On top of this, it’s vital to consider where the elevator is located in the building. If it’s in a car garage, you may want a simple design. Whereas, if it’s located in a 5-star resort, you may want to opt for high-end finishes and luxurious wall paneling.

5. Budget Limitations

To ensure your elevator cab project is a success, you must consider your budget. Custom-designed elevator cabs can be expensive, especially when you opt for high-end finishes. It’s vital to know how much you’re able to spend and what features are most important to have before the project begins.

6. Timeline Restraints

How long can your elevator be out of service? When is the due date for project completion? These are all important considerations that play a crucial role in determining any timeline restraints of the project. It’s crucial to communicate these restraints to your elevator company to ensure your elevator is installed on time and to your satisfaction.

7. Industry Expertise

Finally, if you’re looking for help designing elevator cab interiors that meet all these important considerations and more, it’s worth consulting with elevator industry experts like Sandoval Elevator, who can provide valuable insight and guidance throughout the design and installation process. With their expertise and assistance, you can be sure that your elevator cabs are truly designed to impress.

Choose Your Elevator Cab Design at Sandoval Elevator

Ready to take your elevator cab’s design to the next level? Contact Sandoval Elevator today! We specialize in customized elevator cab interiors that can be designed to meet any unique project requirements.

Your Go-To Guide on Elevator Maintenance Contracts

For an elevator to function properly, it requires regular maintenance. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize this until they experience problematic elevator shutdowns firsthand due to poor or missed maintenance.

To ensure your elevator is safe, reliable, and has a long life, it’s essential to have an elevator maintenance contract in place. But what is an elevator maintenance contract and how can it benefit your elevator? Keep reading to uncover the answer.

What is an Elevator Maintenance Contract?

An elevator maintenance contract is a legal agreement between you and an elevator maintenance company. This contract outlines the scope of work the company will perform and the terms and conditions of the agreement.

It’s vital to have a clear understanding of what is included in your contract before signing it. Otherwise, you’ll be left frustrated by the rising elevator maintenance costs that are not being done consistently.

At Sandoval Elevator, our family prides itself on creating elevator maintenance contracts focused on customer satisfaction and preventative maintenance. We’ll work with you to create an elevator maintenance contract tailored to your elevator’s unique needs. As a result, you’ll feel confident your elevator is in good hands and always operates at peak performance.

Sandoval Elevator’s Maintenance Control Plan

At Sandoval Elevator, we pride ourselves on being proactive and transparent with our clients, so there are no surprises down the road. Our elevator maintenance contracts always include:

• Monthly hands-on maintenance to ensure that we touch and feel every major component of the elevator, including the controller, door operator and equipment, the hydraulic power unit, and all buttons and key switches
• 24/7 coverage available for emergency repairs
• Full coverage warranty for parts and labor on all (5) major components of the elevator system, including control and landing systems, signal fixtures, power unit, door operation, and all safety mechanisms
• Code required annual hydraulic pressure testing
• Code required monthly testing of phones and fire service
• Code required emergency phone monitoring 24/7
• Unlimited service calls are included Monday-Friday during regular hours at no extra charge
• 24/7 access to Sandoval Elevator’s Maintenance Portal with current and historical maintenance logs, keeping all your elevator information available when you need it
• Most competitive pricing in the industry

Choose Sandoval Elevator

Contact us today to learn more about our elevator maintenance contracts and how we can help you keep your elevator running smoothly for years to come in Arizona or Colorado.

5 Essential Parts of the Elevator Modernization Process

If the time has come to consider an elevator modernization, you probably have considered cost and scheduling. However, an elevator modernization is much more than that. It is a comprehensive process that includes upgrading five major components of the elevator system.

At Sandoval Elevator, we believe in educating our customers to better understand each step of the modernization process, empowering them to select the best vendor for their unique situation. The five major components of an elevator modernization are:

1. The Controller

The elevator Controller is located in the elevator machine room. It is the computer “brain” of the elevator system. It uses microprocessor technology to make millions of decisions that ultimately control every aspect of the system. Today’s non-proprietary controllers are equipped with onboard diagnostics allowing any elevator service provider to diagnose and adjust—no special tools needed. This gives you the freedom to select any service provider to work on the elevator after it is modernized.

Over time, controllers, much like any computer, can experience slower processing speeds and require multiple repairs to keep them operating. That’s why it is essential to change the controller as part of the modernization process, ensuring your elevator is safe, reliable, and code compliant.

2. The Power Unit

The Power Unit is also located in the elevator machine room. It is often referred to as the “heart” of the elevator system, supplying hydraulic oil to the piston, which allows the elevator to travel up and down at a controlled, rated speed. This component includes the system’s hydraulic oil, valve, pump, and pump motor. Today’s power units are typically “submersible,” allowing the valve, pump, and pump motor to be submersed in the hydraulic oil within a sealed tank, eliminating leaks often caused by older “dry” power units.

Over time, the Power Unit can lose its ability to move the elevator and or bring the elevator to a safe floor level. To help eliminate trips and falls around your elevator, it is essential to include a new Power Unit in your modernization.

3. The Fixtures

The elevator Fixtures are the buttons, floor indicators, and key switches associated with the elevator. They are located inside the elevator, allowing passengers to select their floor level, and at every elevator lobby, allowing passengers to “call” the elevator to their floor. Today’s buttons utilize LEDs vs. older style incandescent bulbs, ensuring that your elevator buttons illuminate for years, not months.

Older elevators typically mount these fixtures at a height that is not in compliance with ADA regulations. By including new fixtures with your modernization project, you ensure that the buttons are mounted at the proper height and meet ADA guidelines.

4. The Door Operator and Equipment

The Door Operator is located on top of the elevator and is responsible for opening and closing the elevator doors. The doors on a typical elevator will open and close millions of times over its lifetime.

As you can imagine, this amount of wear and tear can cause problems with the elevator doors, such as:

• Failure of doors to open and close causing an elevator shutdown
• Opening or closing the doors at an extremely slow speed causing the elevator to shut down
• Doors shutter or make a loud grinding noise when opening and closing
• Failure to recognize when a person or object is blocking the doors resulting in striking people or objects as they enter and exit the elevator
• Unintended opening and closing of the doors resulting in longer wait times

Replacing the Door Operator and relating door equipment as part of an elevator modernization is a wise investment that will keep your elevator safe and reliable while extending its life expectancy for years to come.

5. Code Building Upgrades (Mechanical, Fire, and Electrical)

When performing an elevator modernization, local jurisdictions will require that the building’s fire alarm, electrical, and mechanical (air conditioning) systems meet current code requirements. In most situations, upgrades to your building in these areas will be required before the elevator modernization is ready for final inspection.

This building work is typically performed in conjunction with the elevator modernization work, which requires someone to manage the coordination of each trade to ensure work is completed in a timely manner.

At Sandoval Elevator, we serve as your one point of contact for building code upgrades. We will hire and manage the electrician, fire company, and mechanical company to perform the necessary upgrades, which ensures you receive one invoice and one vendor partner.

Importance of Elevator Modernization

Investing in elevator modernization offers several benefits for building owners. Not only does it increase the safety and reliability of your elevator system, but it can also improve the efficiency of elevator operations, leading to reduced costs. In addition, elevator modernization can help you comply with changing code requirements and take advantage of new technologies that can further improve elevator performance.

Choose Sandoval Elevator Company for all Your Elevator Needs!

If you’re looking for an elevator company you can trust, look no further than Sandoval Elevator Company. Our experienced team can help you choose the right type of elevator for your project, maintain them, and modernize them to make them like-new.

We maintain all types of elevators for commercial businesses in Colorado and Arizona and specialize in hydraulic elevators. Contact us today to learn more about our services!

Why Elevator Preventative Maintenance is Essential

Did you know that elevator preventative maintenance is one of the most important things you can do to keep your elevator running smoothly? At Sandoval Elevator, we believe that regular elevator maintenance is essential for the safety and performance of your elevator, which is why we’re discussing everything you need to know about preventative maintenance to help ensure your elevators operate at peak performance.

What is Elevator Preventative Maintenance?

Elevator preventative maintenance is a scheduled service routinely performed on all elevator equipment to ensure it’s in good working condition and is compliant with local, state, and federal regulations. This type of maintenance typically includes a detailed inspection of the inside of the elevator car, top of the car, and machine room.

During the inspection, an elevator service technician will assess and perform various tasks, including:

• Inspect the equipment for wear and tear and any potential risks
• Check the condition of operating devices and signs, such as buttons, lights, car door force, and ventilation
• Repair and replace any operating components that are not working
• Make sure all safety and emergency devices are available and working properly
• Clean, adjust, and lubricate elevator parts
• Examine travel cables and hoistways to make certain they’re operational
• Test the elevator speed to ensure it’s safe
• Prepare a comprehensive and well-documented report of the inspection

Why is Preventative Maintenance Important?

There are many reasons why preventative maintenance is so important in the elevator industry. First, elevator equipment is very expensive to repair or replace if it breaks down. By performing regular preventative maintenance, you can help extend the life of your equipment and avoid having to make a major investment down the road.

Additionally, elevator downtime can be extremely costly. If an elevator goes down, it can mean lost revenue, frustrated passengers, and a major headache for your business. By keeping up with preventative maintenance, you can help avoid elevator downtime and keep your business running smoothly.

How Often Should Preventative Maintenance Be Performed?

The frequency of elevator preventative maintenance will vary depending on the type of equipment you have and how often it is used. However, most experts recommend that elevator equipment be serviced monthly. If your equipment is heavily used or if you have had any problems with it in the past, contact Sandoval Elevator for a free assessment of your elevators which includes a detailed maintenance plan designed to eliminate or reduce ongoing problems.

Choose Sandoval Elevator for Elevator Maintenance

Making elevator preventative maintenance a priority for your business is one of the best things you can do to keep your elevator equipment running properly and avoid costly repairs or downtime. Call Sandoval Elevator for all your elevator maintenance needs.

• Arizona Office: (480) 502-0175
• Colorado Office: (303) 482-0904