Escalators bring a lot of convenience to everyone’s life, but does anyone know what the cost of an escalator is? Or how to save on escalator ownership costs? If you want to know, read on.

What is an escalator?

Before checking the price of escalators, let’s first understand what escalators are.If you’re in a shopping center, subway station, or airport, you’ve seen escalators. Escalators are ribbon-shaped platforms made up of multiple treads that circulate along a fixed track to help passengers move between floors. Unlike elevators, escalators are suitable for vertical transportation over shorter distances and are suitable for places with high foot traffic and frequent transportation.

Escalators are designed to allow people to move smoothly up and down the floors, especially in high-traffic environments, where they can transport more passengers than traditional elevators. Its basic structure includes: power system, electric motor, drive chain, step width plate, support structure, and so on. The cyclic movement of the treads, driven by the electric motor, allows passengers to go up and down the floors smoothly at any time.

Escalators are usually equipped with a variety of safety features, such as emergency braking systems, load monitoring, and pedal protection devices etc., to ensure passenger safety. And for different environments, the size, inclination angle, speed, and load capacity of escalators can be adjusted according to the site. The standard escalator width is 1000mm, but the step width can be designed to be larger or smaller depending on the needs of the site.

Escalators are relatively inexpensive to run and simple to maintain. With advances in technology, many modern escalators are also equipped with energy-saving technology and intelligent control systems, allowing them to reduce energy consumption while improving efficiency and safety. If you are looking for a cost-effective means of vertical transportation, you may want to consider an escalator.

How much does an escalator cost?

Next let’s look at the price range of escalators.The price of an escalator is affected by a number of factors, with a typical escalator costing between $50,000 and $325,000. This price range includes size, features, installation environment, etc. In general, the standard width of an escalator is 1000mm. Generally speaking, the price of escalators with a standard width of 1000mm ranges from $120,000 to $150,000, while the price of escalators with a wide body design (e.g., 1400mm) may reach $180,000 to $220,000.

In addition, escalators installed outdoors are usually more expensive than those installed indoors, mainly due to the need for more durable materials and more complex electrical modifications, which increase the cost by about 40%.

Factors Affecting Escalator Prices

If you want to know the price of escalators, you must know these influencing factors.The price of an escalator is not fixed, but is influenced by a number of factors. The following are some of the major factors that affect the cost of an escalator:

1. Size and Capacity

The size of an escalator has a direct impact on the cost of manufacturing. A standard escalator is typically 1000mm wide, which is suitable for most commercial and public buildings. If a wider escalator is required, for example, a 1400mm wide design, then the price will be much higher. The capacity of the escalator is also relevant, especially in larger premises or where more passengers need to be carried; the capacity and step width of the escalator need to be increased accordingly, which will also lead to an increase in price.

2. Tilt angle

The inclination angle of escalators generally ranges from 30° to 35°. Steeper inclination angles represent higher design and manufacturing costs. Although a steeper angle increases the transportation capacity of an escalator, it also requires more safety measures and a more complex design. As a result, escalators with steeper angles are usually more expensive than those with standard tilt angles.

3. Escalator Length

The length of the escalator is also a factor in determining the price. Longer escalators, such as those that need to span multiple floors, require longer rails and more power system support, and require more materials in the manufacturing process, so the price will also increase. And their installation and transportation costs are also higher.

4. Speed

The speed of escalators is usually set between 0.5 m/s and 0.75 m/s. Escalators with higher speeds provide more efficient transportation, but their design and energy requirements also increase. As a result, a high-speed escalator will be more expensive than a normal-speed escalator.

5. Installation location

The environment in which the escalator is installed is also an important factor in the price. Indoor escalators are usually simpler and less expensive to install. Outdoor escalators require additional anti-corrosion treatment and weatherproof design to cope with different weather conditions, which will increase the cost. And the geography of the installation site and the difficulty of installation will also have an impact on the installation cost, especially in complex terrains or old buildings, which may require additional civil engineering work, further pushing up the cost.

To summarize, the price of an escalator is affected by a number of factors, including size, capacity, tilt angle, length, speed, and installation location. Understanding these factors can help you make a better decision when choosing an escalator that fits your needs and budget.

What are the additional costs?

The cost factors of escalators are not just those mentioned above but there are also some additional costs.The following are some of the common additional costs that depend not only on the design and functionality of the escalator itself, but also on a variety of factors such as the installation environment, maintenance, and safety upgrades.

1. Indoor or outdoor installation

The environment in which the escalator is installed is critical to the cost. According to Statista, outdoor escalators are generally 30-40% more expensive to install than indoor escalators. For example, we installed an outdoor escalator for Dubai Airport in the UAE at a cost of $250,000, while an indoor escalator in a similarly sized shopping center would have cost around $180,000**. The difference is mainly due to the special requirements of materials (e.g., waterproofing, high temperature resistance, etc.) and additional civil engineering modifications.

2. Multiple parallel or cross escalators

In many large shopping malls or transportation hubs, it is often necessary to install multiple parallel or intersecting escalators to cope with high traffic volumes. In a large shopping center in Shanghai, China, the total cost of installing 10 parallel escalators was more than $2,000,000, and the design and layout of these escalators needed to take into account the efficiency and safety of pedestrian flow distribution. These additional design and engineering works added to the overall installation cost.

3. Additional Decoration

Many brands choose to add decorative elements to enhance the appearance of their escalators when installing them. For example, certain mall escalators in New York’s Times Square featured decorative glass guardrails and LED light strips, adding approximately $20,000 to $40,000 to the design costs. Escalators from brands such as Schindler and KONE often offer customized decorative services based on the client’s needs, helping to create an escalator look that matches the style of the building. While these customized designs raise costs, they can significantly enhance the overall aesthetics and brand value of a building.

4. Electrical and structural modifications

Escalator installations often require modifications to the electrical system and structure of existing buildings. For example, when installing an escalator in an old commercial building in Los Angeles, the owner had to spend an additional $50,000 on electrical retrofitting because the existing electrical facilities could not support the additional load. This included rerouting the electrical wiring, installing stronger electrical equipment, and an emergency power system needed to ensure the elevators operated reliably. In addition, the project required additional building reinforcement costs, which added $30,000.

5. Long-term maintenance and service costs

Long-term maintenance and service a cost that cannot be ignored during the operation of escalators. According to Fujixd Maintenance Analysis, the average annual maintenance cost of an escalator ranges from $1,200 to $3,000. Most manufacturers, such as KONE and OTIS, offer a full range of maintenance services, including periodic inspections, lubrication, emergency brake system testing, etc., which can be obtained through a maintenance contract. For escalators in high-traffic areas, such as those located in Tokyo stations, the average annual maintenance cost can even reach $5,000**, mainly due to frequent use, the need for more frequent inspections, and higher safety standards.

6. Upgraded safety features

As safety standards continue to rise, many modern escalators are equipped with additional safety features. For example, one of the high-end escalators introduced by BDFUJI is equipped with a double braking system and a battery backup to increase its safety in case of an emergency. Such upgrades typically add $10,000 to $15,000 to the cost of an escalator, especially where redundant systems are required. For example, in some large commercial projects, the owner may require a higher level of safety in the event of an unexpected power outage or system failure.

The additional cost of an escalator includes not only the design and installation cost of the equipment itself, but also the installation environment, decorative design, structural modifications, long-term maintenance, and safety features. Therefore, we must consider the budget and specific needs when developing an escalator solution, or we can directly seek professional escalator manufacturers, contractors, or designers to help you evaluate and design an escalator solution program to achieve the most ideal state.

Which brands provide the most economical escalators?

When it comes to escalator costs, you must understand these escalator brands. Because the brand directly affects the price and quality of the escalator. There are many escalator brands on the market, with different prices, quality and after-sales services. In order to help you find the most economical escalator brand, we will introduce some affordable and cost-effective escalator brands and their characteristics.

1. BDFUJI

BDFUJI is a professional escalator and elevator generator manufacturer whose products are widely used in commercial buildings and public places. The brand’s escalators are known in the market for their high cost performance. In an actual case, when a shopping center chose BDFUJI escalators, the total installation cost was about 30% lower than that of other brands, mainly due to its modular design, which was able to shorten the installation time and reduce labor costs. In addition, BDFUJI is very popular in South America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East because of the reasonable price of its equipment and lower maintenance costs.

Brand Advantage:

• Cost-effective: low price and powerful performance of the equipment, especially suitable for medium-sized shopping malls and subway stations.
• Stable and reliable: key components are made of high-quality materials and have a long service life.
• Convenient maintenance: modular design reduces the difficulty of maintenance, and the cost of spare parts is low.

2. Schindler

As one of the world’s leading manufacturers of elevators and escalators, Schindler is known for its high quality and reliability. Although the initial purchase cost of Schindler is slightly higher, its energy-saving design can effectively reduce the operating cost of escalators.

Brand Advantage:

• Strong durability: suitable for high-traffic areas and stable operation.
• Good energy-saving effect: equipped with an intelligent drive system, which reduces energy consumption.
• Perfect after-sales service: global service network, timely maintenance.

3. OTIS

As one of the world’s largest manufacturers of elevators and escalators, OTIS offers a wide range of choices from basic models to high-end intelligent escalators. OTIS escalators perform particularly well in the North American and European markets, and are especially widely used in high-rise buildings and subway station projects. Although OTIS products have a high initial purchase cost, typically between $150,000 and $250,000, their low maintenance requirements and strong after-sales warranty result in a low long-term cost of ownership. For example, in the New York subway project, the five-year average maintenance cost of OTIS escalators installed is less than $3,000/year.

Brand Advantage:

High brand recognition: many successful cases worldwide.

High degree of intelligence: equipped with an automatic fault detection and remote monitoring system.

Convenient maintenance: sufficient supply of spare parts worldwide, which reduces maintenance time and cost.

4. KONE

KONE is another brand with international influence, known for its innovative and energy-efficient technologies. Its EcoMod energy-saving system reduces escalator energy consumption by 20-30%, making it ideal for energy-sensitive projects such as airports and shopping centers. Although the initial cost is high, ranging from $180,000 to $300,000, the long-term total cost of KONE escalators is lower due to improved energy efficiency and ease of maintenance.

Brand Advantage:

Energy saving and environmental protection: adopting an energy recovery system to effectively reduce power consumption.

Flexible design: Different specifications and appearances can be customized according to the needs of the place.

Low long-term cost: High-performance design and long warranty reduce stress.

5. ThyssenKrupp

ThyssenKrupp escalators are known for their industrialization and high durability, and are particularly suitable for heavy-duty and complex environments (e.g. airports and train stations). Although its equipment has a high unit price, its innovative TWIN system allows for double escalators in the same shaft, thus saving building space and reducing installation costs. For example, in the expansion of Dubai International Airport, the use of ThyssenKrupp TWIN escalators enabled a 30% reduction in the number of equipment installations, significantly reducing overall costs.

Brand Advantage:

High heavy-duty capacity: for high traffic and large building sites.

High space utilization: Innovative design allows for a smaller footprint.

Controllable maintenance costs: stable equipment performance, reducing frequent maintenance.

How to choose the right brand?

After learning about these affordable escalator brands, I will tell you how to choose the right escalator brand from a real case.
In a shopping mall construction project in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the developer faced multiple brands to choose from and finally decided to install BDFUJI escalators. The reasons are as follows:

Limited cost budget: BDFUJI’s equipment was purchased at a lower price, reducing upfront investment.

Stable usage environment: the project is mainly an indoor shopping center and does not require special weatherproof design.

Reliable after-sales service: BDFUJI has a well-established after-sales service system in the global market with reasonable maintenance costs.

In contrast, for the expansion project of the U.S. International Airport, the developer chose ThyssenKrupp because its TWIN escalator system can provide higher capacity in limited space, and the brand has more service outlets in the Middle East, which makes it easier to maintain at a later stage.

On balance, the choice of the most economical escalator brand depends on specific usage scenarios and budgetary considerations.BDFUJI and Schindler have the advantage in terms of price/performance ratio and maintenance costs, while OTIS and KONE are suitable for projects with high requirements on energy consumption and intelligence. For locations where space is limited and high loads are required, ThyssenKrupp is the ideal choice. In actual application, it is recommended to choose the most cost-effective brand and model based on a comprehensive consideration of project characteristics and budget.

How to reduce escalator TCO?

The cost of an escalator is not just the initial purchase and installation cost, but also the long-term use and maintenance costs. Here are some effective strategies to reduce the TCO of escalators and help you save unnecessary escalator use costs.

1. Choose energy-efficient escalators

Energy consumption is one of the biggest costs of escalators in the long run. According to Statista, the energy consumption of escalators in daily operation accounts for 30-40% of the total cost. Therefore, choosing energy-efficient escalators can significantly reduce operating costs. The EcoMod escalator launched by KONE, for example, has improved energy efficiency by 20-30%, saving hundreds of dollars in electricity costs per year. Similarly, BDFUJI’s energy-efficient escalators use energy recovery technology, which is able to convert some of the energy into electricity when running up and down, reducing waste.

2. Optimize routine maintenance

Regular maintenance is the basis for ensuring the long-term stable operation of escalators, but unreasonable or too frequent maintenance will also increase unnecessary expenses. And reasonable maintenance frequency and method can reduce the maintenance cost by 15%-20%. For example, setting quarterly inspections instead of monthly inspections and performing maintenance during non-peak hours can reduce downtime losses and maintenance costs.

3. Intelligent monitoring and predictive maintenance

Modern escalator manufacturers, such as BDFUJI, have begun installing IoT sensors in their equipment to monitor motor temperatures, operating speeds, and vibrations in real time. Once an abnormality is detected, the system automatically sends out an alert and schedules a technician to overhaul it. This kind of predictive maintenance can warn of problems in advance, avoiding small faults from evolving into big problems and reducing the high cost of repairing sudden failures.

4. Reasonable purchase and brand comparison

Initially, choosing the right brand and model can radically reduce the total cost of ownership. Brands such as BDFUJI and Schindler have longer equipment life and lower maintenance costs due to modular design and highly durable materials. BDFUJI, for example, has been operating its escalators in a number of shopping malls in Southeast Asia for more than five years, and its average annual maintenance cost is controlled between $1,200 and $2,000**, which is much lower than the market average.

5. Regular training for operators

Improper operation will accelerate the wear and tear of escalators and increase the maintenance cost. Training operators on proper use and simple daily maintenance, such as regular cleaning of comb plates and checking wear and tear of guardrail tapes, can effectively extend the life of the equipment. Many brands, such as BDFUJI and OTIS, provide free operator training courses upon delivery of the equipment to help owners familiarize themselves with equipment operation and maintenance points.

6. Selection of materials and accessories

When purchasing escalators, preference should be given to materials with high durability and low maintenance costs. For example, stainless steel treads and wear-resistant rubber handrails can effectively reduce wear and tear and the frequency of replacement. At the same time, try to choose branded accessories that can be easily purchased locally to avoid downtime due to insufficient spare parts.

7. Reduce idle running time

Continuous operation of escalators when idle not only wastes energy but also accelerates wear and tear. Adoption of an inductive start device can automatically enter energy-saving mode when no one is using it, and this design has been applied in many series of BDFUJI and KONE. By reducing no-load operation, energy consumption and the speed of equipment aging can be effectively reduced.

Reducing the total cost of ownership of escalators needs to start from many aspects, such as equipment selection, energy-saving technology application, scientific maintenance, and operation management. Through scientific management and reasonable selection, the cost of escalators can be effectively reduced.

How does an escalator work?

If you are still learning about the price of escalators, then this is your first time to use escalators. You’d better understand the working principle and key components of escalators so that you can better formulate project plans.

The Basic Structure of an Escalator

Although the structure of an escalator looks complicated, its core part is actually relatively simple, mainly including the following key components:

Drive system: the power source of the escalator, usually composed of an electric motor and a drive chain. The electric motor drives the sprocket wheel to rotate through the reduction gearbox, which causes the tread chain to move cyclically.

Steps and chain: Each step (tread) is connected to the escalator’s track by a chain. Under the action of the drive system, these steps circulate along the track, forming a flow of treads running up and down.

Handrail system: The handrail, which moves in synchronization with the steps, ensures a smooth grip for the passengers while riding. The handrails are driven by independent electric motors and are synchronized with the speed of the escalator.

Rail System: The rails control the path and angle of travel of the treads and are usually made of high-strength steel to ensure stability and load-bearing capacity.

Control System: It is responsible for managing the operational status of the escalator, such as start, stop, speed adjustment, and emergency braking. Modern escalators are usually equipped with an intelligent control system, which can monitor the operation of the equipment in real time and prevent failures.

Operation Principle of the Escalator

The escalator is driven by an electric motor, which drives the sprocket to rotate, and the sprocket then pulls the chain to make the steps circulate on the track. Each step is fixed on two circulating chains through the chain, so when the motor is activated, the steps circulate along the track from the starting point to the end point.

Drive steps:

Start: After pressing the start button, the control system activates the motor, and the chain starts to move.

Cycling: The chain is driven by the rotation of the sprocket, and each step on the chain moves accordingly. As the track is designed to be symmetrical up and down, the steps remain horizontal during the upward and downward movement to ensure passenger safety.

Stop: When the emergency stop button or the control panel stop signal is issued, the braking system responds quickly to disconnect and decelerate the motor and finally stop.

Safety Mechanism of Escalator

Escalators are exposed to many potential risks during operation, so modern escalators are equipped with a variety of safety devices to ensure passenger safety:

Emergency braking system: When an abnormality (e.g., overload or obstacle jamming) is monitored, the braking device is automatically activated to quickly stop the escalator operation.

Anti-slip device for treads: Prevent passengers from falling due to slippery step surfaces, commonly used materials are non-slip aluminum alloy or rubber surfaces.

Anti-trap protection: Installed at the interface between the steps and handrail belt to prevent passengers’ fingers or clothes from being caught.

Power failure protection: When the power supply fails, the backup battery will be accessed immediately to ensure the equipment stops safely in case of power failure.

Energy Efficiency of Escalators

In order to reduce operating costs and save energy, modern escalators have adopted some advanced technologies such as Variable Frequency Drive (VVVF) and Energy Saving Induction Start. These technologies can automatically adjust the escalator speed according to the flow of people and reduce the energy consumption during no-load operation.

Case in point: At London’s Heathrow Airport, some escalators are fitted with an energy recovery system. The system converts a portion of the mechanical energy into electrical energy as the escalator descends, which is re-supplied to the grid, saving up to 20% of the annual electricity bill. Similar technology is used in BDFUJI’s energy-efficient escalators, which are capable of recovering energy while running up and down, further reducing energy consumption.

Intelligent Management of Escalators

In recent years, the level of escalator intelligence has been increasing. Many brands, such as BDFUJI and OTIS, have installed Internet of Things (IoT) sensors in their escalators, which allow real-time monitoring of motor temperature, chain tension, and step wear. Once an abnormality is monitored, the system automatically warns technicians who can fix the problem before it worsens, avoiding sudden breakdowns and prolonged downtime.

Escalator Operation Characteristics

Continuous operation: Escalators do not stop intermittently during operation, which allows them to move large numbers of people continuously during peak hours.

Constant speed: Most escalators run at a fixed speed of 0.5-0.75 meters per second, ensuring that passengers can get on and off safely.

Bi-directional switching: In some specific situations (e.g., shopping malls), escalators can switch between upward and downward direction according to the demand of passenger flow.

Types of Escalators

In addition to the escalator cost, it is best to continue to understand the types of escalators, because different escalator types are suitable for different buildings and needs, and the prices are also different.

1. Parallel Escalators

Parallel Escalators are the most common type and are usually found in pairs for circulating between upper and lower floors. Parallel escalators have a simple layout and take up less space, which is especially suitable for shopping centers, subway stations, and airports where there is a high flow of people.

Brand recommendation:

• BDFUJI: with energy-saving function, equipped with an intelligent sensor system, able to adjust the running speed according to the flow of people.
• OTIS: Smooth operation and low noise, suitable for indoor commercial environments.

Pros:

• Simple installation, occupies little space.
• Symmetrical layout of top and bottom, convenient for people flow management.
• Relatively low cost and easy maintenance.

Disadvantages:

• Limited capacity, difficult to cope with the special peak flow of people.
• In large commercial complexes, the layout is not flexible enough.

2. Multiple Parallel Escalators

When the flow of people is large, only a pair of parallel escalators may not be able to meet the demand. In this case, the design of multiple parallel escalators can more effectively increase the capacity. Usually, this type of escalator will be centrally located in the central area of the shopping mall or station to form a multi-directional transportation network.

Brand Recommendation:

• Schindler: Designed for high-traffic areas and characterized by strong loads and high speeds.
• ThyssenKrupp: The double escalator system saves space and increases capacity.

Advantages:

• High efficiency, especially suitable for large public transportation hubs.
• Multi-level arrangement, flexible to cope with pedestrian flow in different directions.

Disadvantages:

• High installation costs and large space requirements.
• Complicated maintenance, high cost, especially for a double-level cross design.

3. Step Type Escalators

Step-type escalator adopts step design, compared with the plane escalator, its vertical height difference is larger, usually used in buildings with higher floors or places with larger lifting angles. This type of escalator has obvious step heights and passengers need to stand on the treads, similar to the form of stairs, but driven by electric power.

Brand recommendation:

• Mitsubishi: Highly stable with earthquake-resistant design, especially suitable for subways and airports.
• BDFUJI: Modular structure for easy disassembly and maintenance.

Advantages:

• Large lifting height, suitable for places with large vertical spans.
• High safety, usually equipped with an automatic alarm and braking system.

Disadvantages:

• Larger footprint, more difficult to install.
• Slower operation speed, suitable for upper and lower floors rather than rapid evacuation.

4. Spiral Escalators

Spiral escalators use a curved layout, usually spiraling up or down, and are a unique way of utilizing space. Due to their unique design, these escalators are often found in high-end shopping centers or exhibition venues, where they are both practical and of high ornamental value.

Brand Recommendation:

• Mitsubishi: The world’s first spiral design for smooth and quiet operation.
• Schindler: Suitable for small spaces, with the advantage of smooth curves.

Advantages:

• Small footprint, high space utilization.
• Outstanding visual effect, can become the highlight of the commercial space.

Disadvantages:

• Complex production process, high installation cost.
• Maintenance is difficult, due to the curved design increases the complexity of maintenance.

5. Moving Walkways

Moving Walkways, also known as automatic walkways or flat escalators, are mainly used in airports, exhibition halls, and other places for long-distance horizontal transportation. Unlike traditional escalators, this type of escalator has no obvious steps, so passengers can push luggage carts or walk smoothly to enhance comfort.

Brand Recommendation:

• BDFUJI: With a lightweight design and non-slip treads, it is suitable for airports and large exhibition halls.
• ThyssenKrupp: Smooth speed changes for short distances.

Pros:

• Provides horizontal transportation and reduces walking fatigue.
• Runs at adjustable speeds to meet the needs of high-traffic venues.

Disadvantages:

• Limited transport height, only suitable for horizontal or slight inclines.
• Routine cleaning and anti-slip maintenance are more complicated.

There are many types of escalators, each with its own characteristics. Choosing the right type of escalator depends on a number of factors such as the environment in which it is to be used, the layout of the building, the flow of people, and the budget. You can directly contact BDFUJI to help you comprehensively assess the needs of the place and choose the right type of escalator, which can more efficiently improve the utilization of building space and traffic efficiency.For more escalator types, please refer to:《Types of escalators: the most complete guide to 2025》

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between a manual escalator and an escalator?

There are significant differences between manual escalators and escalators in terms of structure and usage. A manual escalator is usually a fixed staircase that requires manual labor to move up and down, whereas an escalator is electrically driven with steps that circulate automatically, allowing it to efficiently transport large numbers of people.

Escalators are usually equipped with electric motors, chain drive systems, and control panels that allow for continuous operation after start-up. Manual escalators, on the other hand, do not have these mechanical devices and rely entirely on passengers to move up and down on their own.

2. What is the price difference between different brands of escalators?

Escalator prices vary by brand, specification, and function. According to market data, high-end escalators from brands such as KONE and OTIS can cost between **$150,000 and $300,000** per unit, while mid-range brands like FujiHD usually cost between **$50,000 and $150,000**.

The brand price difference is mainly reflected in the following points:

• Technology level: High-end brands are equipped with more advanced intelligent monitoring and energy-saving systems, such as KONE’s EcoMod technology.
• Durability: International brands tend to use high-strength steel and high-quality chains to extend equipment life.
• After-sales service: Well-known brands usually provide long-term maintenance contracts, while smaller brands may only provide a basic warranty.

3. Which brand of escalator is the most reliable?

Among many brands, BDFUJI, OTIS, KONE, Schindler, and ThyssenKrupp are considered the most reliable. These brands have a high global market share, and their products undergo rigorous quality testing, providing a long service life and low failure rates.

Choosing a reliable brand can reduce downtime and unexpected failures, especially in high-traffic locations such as subway stations and airports.

4. Should I be concerned about the safety of escalators?

Escalators are designed and manufactured under stringent safety standards to ensure passenger safety. However, accidents can still occur, usually due to improper use or lack of maintenance.

Key Safety Measures:

• Emergency stop button: stops the machine immediately in the event of an unexpected situation.
• Anti-pinch protection: guards are installed at handrail and step interfaces to prevent pinching.
• Speed control: Modern escalators are equipped with a variable frequency drive (VVVF), which can automatically adjust the speed according to the flow of people to avoid fall accidents caused by excessive speed.

5. What is the usual maintenance and repair cost of escalators?

The annual maintenance cost of an escalator usually ranges from **$1,200 to $3,000, depending on the brand, frequency of use, and warranty program. High-traffic locations, such as shopping malls and subway stations, will have relatively higher maintenance costs because of the need for frequent inspections and lubrication.

Maintenance cost components:

• Periodic inspections: mechanical wear, chain tightness, condition of handrail straps.
• Parts replacement: e.g., chains, pedals, and control panels.
• Emergency maintenance: troubleshooting and parts replacement.

Ways to reduce maintenance costs:

Choose energy-efficient equipment, e.g., KONE’s EcoMod range, to reduce wear and tear on equipment.

Sign a maintenance contract: Brands such as Schindler and OTIS provide up to 10 years of maintenance service. Regular maintenance can effectively reduce unexpected repair costs.

6. How to use the escalator safely in case of a power failure?

In the event of a power failure on an escalator, modern equipment usually switches automatically to a battery backup and stops slowly to prevent passengers from falling. If there is no backup power, the escalator will come to a gradual stop rather than a sudden stop to minimize the danger caused by inertia.

The cost of escalators in modern buildings is a complex and multidimensional issue. Through this article, we have learned a series of content such as the price composition, influencing factors, and cost reduction strategies of escalators, and we will share more knowledge about escalators and elevators next. Welcome, stay tuned to BDFUJI.