An in-home elevator is becoming a sought-after feature in many modern homes, not only for the luxe look and added value but for every day and age-in-place conveniences.
In-home elevators make it possible for those with mobility troubles to enjoy multi-floor homes that they can stay in longer. This feature also allows for easy transportation of furniture, groceries, and other personal belongings from floor to floor. Keep that baby asleep in the stroller, and deliver groceries to the kitchen to maintain!
Many homebuyers question whether an elevator is difficult to maintain, but in actuality, it is no different than having a kitchen appliance or living room fireplace. Our team of experts put together five tips for owning an in-home elevator that will allow you to get the most from it!
Our Essential Tips for Enjoying an In-Home Elevator
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Keep Up With Maintenance
Have a professional elevator mechanic regularly look over your elevator to ensure it remains in top working order for a long time, just like you would with your furnace. This will make the elevator less costly over time due to not having to pay for substantial repairs.
Set up a regular maintenance schedule, at least yearly, and record any concerns about your elevator so the mechanic can quickly address them. If there is an immediate issue, don’t wait for the mechanic’s next visit. Call them immediately before using it again.
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Install An Emergency Phone
Your in-home elevator must have a phone as part of its safety feature. While it would helpfully never happen, there could be a time when your elevator stops working while you’re inside it. A phone inside the elevator will allow you to call the emergency operator for help, and it doesn’t rely on remembering to have a charged cell phone on hand at all times. This is another feature the elevator mechanic will check during maintenance visits.
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Familiarize and Inspect
Just as important as having an elevator mechanic regularly check your elevator is learning yourself how the elevator works so you can identify problems should they arise. Home elevators are different from commercial ones, so, if possible, arrange to be at home when the mechanic comes so they can show you key features and operations.
Do daily inspections between maintenance visits and note any changes that need to be addressed.
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Use It Properly
Be patient with your elevator. In-home elevators operate more slowly than commercial ones because of their smaller size and the different code regulations for non-commercial elevators. Always watch your step as you get in and out of the elevator to prevent trips and falls. Keep people and belongings away from the doors, so they don’t get caught. Importantly, make sure the elevator completely stops before entering or exiting.
Also, learn what the weight capacity for your elevator is. In-home elevators have a lower weight capacity than commercial ones. Overloading them can damage doors and cables.
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Use It Regularly
To prevent elevator system deterioration, use it regularly – daily if possible. By doing so, the system will be continuously lubricated, ensuring high performance. Just like any other machinery, if moving parts are stagnant for a long time, they will be rusty when you finally use them.
A Home With a Personal Luxury Elevator Is Within Reach
With in-home elevators becoming a desired feature in new home builds, you don’t have to worry about installing one in an existing home. Craftmark Homes is proud to offer in-home elevators at The Village at Cabin Branch, a new 55+ community in Montgomery County, MD.
Currently, The Village at Cabin Branch has the newly designed Seneca floor plan available! These stylish elevator townhomes offer large living spaces, a gourmet kitchen, great rooms with a private deck, and lower levels with flexible designs.
Surrounded by a bustling community in a lovely wooded area near popular amenities, Craftmark Homes offers ideal accommodations that are sure to become your forever home as you begin your active adult journey.
Contact us today to take advantage of our offerings and check out our communities to learn more about our featured homes.