Choosing commercial lifts for your business is not a task that you will undertake every day and most business owners will likely not have to select commercial lift, given that many rent their premises. Even those that do own their business premises are unlikely to have to choose a commercial lift more than once every 20 or 25 years.
Nevertheless, it can happen and if you are currently in need of a commercial lift, given the sizeable investment required, both in terms of time and finances, it is not a decision that should be taken on a whim. Instead, you need to follow a sensible and logical process to go from deciding you want a lift, to the point where the lift is installed and in operation. Whilst many approaches can be taken, here is a step by step process everyone can understand and follow.
Step #1: Decide What Your Needs Are
The first step that you need to take to ensure the entire project is successful is to consider and establish what your needs are with respect to having a commercial lift installed. For a start, there are different types of commercial lifts so determine which type you need. Your choices are:
- Passenger Lift
- Wheelchair Lift
- Goods Lift
- Escalator
- ‘Dumb Waiter’ Lift
Depending on the size of your building you will also need to decide whether you wish to have just one lift installed or more than one.
Step #2: Consider The Specifics Of Your New Commercial Lift
The most common type of commercial lift is a passenger lift, and if that is the case with your new lift then there are some additional considerations to be made. The first is what capacity you need your lift to have. A lift for a building with lots of employees moving and visitors is going to need a greater capacity than one where foot flow is a lot less. Other points to decide upon will include the aesthetics of your lift, the drive system, and the budget you are willing to commit.
Step #3: Research And Choose A Commercial Lift Installation Company
This is usually regarded as the most important step as the choice you make here will determine how successful the entire lift installation will be. Research local lift installation companies and ensure that they have a lengthy track record of several years, a portfolio of completed installations, and testimonials from satisfied clients. Take time to speak to them directly and get a sense of how helpful and knowledgeable they are before asking for a written quotation.
Step #4: Make Every Preparation Necessary
Having a commercial lift installed in the building where you operate your business may cause considerable disruption especially during the main installation period. To ensure that your business does not suffer excessively you must prepare thoroughly in advance, This might include some degree of relocation and changes to your usual ways of working. The key to it all is proper communication with everyone including your employees, suppliers, and clients.
Step #5: Ensure That The Maintenance Routine Is Adhered To
With a successful lift installation complete, you, your employees, and visitors can now enjoy using your new lift. However, your work does not stop there because if you want to gain the maximum benefit from your lift, you need to ensure it works when needed and for many years ahead. To achieve this, you first need to have the lift’s interior cleaned regularly, and have a maintenance schedule in place including a full inspection by an engineer every 6 months.