Elevator installation and repairs should be performed by a professional to ensure the utmost in code compliance and safety. If you own an elevator, there are some things you should know about what’s involved in installation, repair, maintenance and general care.
Who Installs and Repairs Elevators?
Elevator and escalator installers and repairers do. Their median pay in 2019 was $85,000 a year, or $41 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Their job is to repair, maintain and inspect elevators, moving walkways, dumbwaiters, escalators, and other types of lifts. Many work on call and must be available 24/7 to address emergency situations.
They must know how to:
- Read blueprints of a building’s layout so they can properly choose the equipment necessary for repair or installation.
- Put together lift cars, walls, doors and platforms.
- Connect electrical wiring that controls motors and panels.
- Test equipment to make sure it is up to code.
- Troubleshoot brake, motor, switch, and control system malfunctions.
- Take apart units to gain access to components for repair or replacement.
- Replace and repair faulty components.
- Perform preventive maintenance and inspections on a regular basis to ensure safety regulations are met.
- Maintain accurate safety records on all repairs and installations.
In order to properly do their jobs, installers and repairers must possess a comprehensive knowledge of all types of modern elevators, as well as electronics, electricity and hydraulics. And because today’s elevators are controlled by microprocessors, they have to be familiar with these components as well.
They need a working knowledge of blueprints to understand which equipment is necessary to access and install rails, enclosures, motors, machinery, cylinders, pumps, and foundations. They often have to work in precarious and compromising positions by using scaffolding and platforms, with the ability to work in tight spaces easily. They use a variety of equipment, such as power and hand tools, and testing devices like ammeters, voltmeters and test lamps.
Many municipalities require that elevator installers and repairers pass a licensing exam to gain certification, but this varies by city and state. Most such technicians need a high school diploma and learn the ropes of the trade through apprenticeships.
Contact Mowrey Elevator
Here at Mowrey, we always have experienced technicians on hand ready to assist with your repair at any hour. To learn more, call our repair hotline at 800-441-4449 or send a repair request online. Rest assured, our technicians go above and beyond the industry standard, possessing both state and national certifications, along with training for all kinds of elevators made by a variety of manufacturers.
For your additional peace of mind, we offer Mowrey Maintenance Agreements, Mowrey Inspection Services, and Elevator Telephone Services.