As time goes by, the performance of many old elevators is no longer as good as before. Considering the riding demand, safety factors and the cost of replacing elevators, many people will choose elevator renovation. That is, upgrading old elevators has become an important measure to improve building functions and ensure passenger safety.

What is elevator renovation

Elevator renovation refers to the activity of changing the main force-bearing structure, mechanism (transmission system) or control system of the original elevator by replacement, adjustment, installation, etc., resulting in changes in the performance parameters and technical indicators of the elevator.

Why do we need to modernize elevators?

With the development of urbanization, passenger elevators have become an important means of transportation that we have to “take” every day. Frequent use means that the wear of elevator parts is inevitable, and the person in charge of the elevator (including the owner of the home elevator and the person responsible for managing or controlling the elevator) must ensure that their elevators are properly maintained and repaired in accordance with the law.

At present, the installation time of existing elevators in various cities is different. With the rapid development of elevator technology in recent years, some existing elevators can no longer meet the needs of modernization. If the performance of your elevator is no longer as good as before, and there are frequent failures or noises, then elevator modernization is your first choice.

Benefits of Elevator Modernization

Improve Energy Conservation

Elevator modernization can effectively reduce energy consumption and can effectively reduce normal operating costs. The latest elevator system can effectively reduce the heat generation and energy consumption of the elevator, keep the machine room cool, reduce heat damage, and the upgraded LED device and fan system can also effectively reduce energy consumption.

Increase Property Value

Elevator modernization can significantly increase the value of the building. A good, smooth, and efficient elevator system can effectively attract the attention of potential customers and investors. Inadvertently increase the value of the entire building elevator. If you are reselling your home, a well-performing residential elevator can also increase its resale value. 3. Extend life

Elevator modernization can extend the service life of the elevator and extend the time of overall replacement of the elevator. Compared with the replacement of the entire elevator, the cost of elevator modernization is lower, which can save a lot of money for the property or homeowner, and also avoid the damage caused to the building by replacing the entire elevator.

Reduce maintenance costs

Elevator modernization can replace some old and outdated elevator components with newer and more advanced technologies. It can effectively reduce the number of elevator failures and repairs, and avoid the possibility of the elevator needing to be replaced completely, effectively reducing the maintenance cost of the elevator.

Improve comfort

The most important part of elevator modernization is the upgrade of elevator components and technology. This will increase the speed and stability of the ride, reduce operating noise, and improve the overall quality and safety of the elevator.

Reduce electromagnetic noise

Old elevators often have electromagnetic noise, and excessive noise will affect the experience of residents and passengers. Through elevator modernization, we will effectively reduce electromagnetic noise and prevent further damage to the elevator.

Enhance safety

The main goal of elevator modernization is to make outdated elevator systems non-compliant with the government’s latest safety regulations. It can effectively prevent elevator failures and reduce potential risk factors. The latest elevator renovation technology in 2025 can effectively enhance the elevator door function, car leveling, and optimize safety, lighting and emergency systems. Make sure your elevator can meet local safety labels to make passengers feel safer.

Enhance aesthetics

Elevators have a variety of car types, such as glass cars and fully enclosed cars. Different car configurations can change the overall atmosphere of the building. Elevator modernization can transform the interior and exterior appearance of the car to make the overall building more harmonious and beautiful.

Improve passenger satisfaction

In residential or commercial buildings, upgrading residential or commercial elevators will bring passengers a good riding experience and improve passenger satisfaction. Satisfied passengers are more likely to stay and renew their leases. Let the property develop stably and long-term.

What factors should be considered for elevator renovation

Ensure compliance

Before modernizing the elevator, we must first ensure compliance with relevant regulations. If it is a public elevator, we must pay special attention to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), such as the width of the elevator door, the height of the button, and the installation of handrails.

To ensure that the elevator renovation is legal and safe, it is recommended to hire a professional elevator service company. They understand the latest building codes and can help you complete the renovation smoothly and avoid the trouble caused by violations of regulations.

Understand the cost

It is important to understand the cost in advance. The cost of elevator renovation mainly lies in the replacement of elevator interiors, upgrading lighting, replacing floors, and reinstalling elevator doors. We must know which renovation projects are necessary and which are not necessary. For example, although LED lights cost a little more, they are more energy-efficient and durable, and more cost-effective in the long run.

After the renovation, it is best to conduct multiple safety tests to check whether the elevator can operate normally and whether the weight meets the standard.

Pay attention to design

The appearance and interior design of the elevator will directly affect the overall image of the building. For example, the interior of the car can choose different finishes, such as wood, metal or glass, to create a modern or retro style. Appropriate lighting can improve comfort, and repairing scratches and dents on the metal surface can also make the elevator look brand new.

In addition, the exterior design of the elevator should match the architectural style, and the floor material should be both beautiful and durable. A beautifully designed elevator not only makes the riding experience more comfortable, but also improves the grade and value of the entire building.

How much does it cost to renovate an elevator?

If it is a comprehensive modernization, it will cost about $175,000. However, the situation of each elevator is different, so the renovation cost is also different. If it is a residential elevator renovation, it will cost about 10K, and if it is a high-rise office building, the cost will be relatively high.

Factors that influence elevator retrofit costs:

• Elevator type: Retrofit costs for traction elevators Hydraulic elevators are generally less expensive to retrofit than traction elevators.
• Scope of work: A simple replacement of a component may cost as little as $250, while a full upgrade, such as replacing a control system, can be as high as $12,500.
• Number of elevators: Upgrading multiple elevators at once will naturally cost more than retrofitting a single elevator.
• Location: Labor and permit fees vary by region, affecting overall costs.
• Building codes: Costs may increase further if the retrofit requires additional building adjustments to meet the latest codes.

How to save on elevator retrofit costs

• Consider a phased approach, upgrading components over time rather than all at once.
• Get quotes from multiple elevator contractors.
• See if any elevator parts can be reused, such as the car floor.

Which parts can be upgraded by elevator modification?

Elevator modification can upgrade various parts of the elevator, including but not limited to:

1. Change the rated (nominal) speed, rated load, lifting height, car deadweight (except for the reserved decoration weight specified by the manufacturer), explosion-proof level, drive mode, suspension mode, speed regulation mode and control mode of the elevator;x

ps1: Changing the speed regulation mode of the elevator means: such as changing the AC pole-changing speed regulation system of the passenger or cargo elevator to the AC variable frequency and voltage speed regulation system; or changing the speed regulation system of the escalator and moving walkway from continuous operation to intermittent operation, etc.;

ps2: Specification refers to: the marking of different technical parameters and performance of the product by the manufacturer, such as: working principle, mechanical performance, structure, component size, installation location, etc.; model refers to: the product code compiled by the manufacturer according to the category and variety and following certain rules.

2. Install or replace different specifications and models of drive hosts, control cabinets, speed limiters, safety clamps, buffers, door locks, car overspeed protection devices, car accidental movement protection devices, safety circuits containing electronic components and programmable electronic safety-related systems, clamping devices, ratchet devices, speed limit cut-off valves (or throttle valves), hydraulic cylinders, steps, pedals, handrails, and additional brakes;

3. Change the type of floor (car) door, add floor doors or car doors;

4. Install automatic rescue operation (power failure automatic leveling) devices, energy feedback energy-saving devices, card readers (IC cards), etc., and change the original control circuit of the elevator.

What are the precautions for elevator renovation?

Understand the elevator structure

First understand the elevator infrastructure, analyze whether the existing system meets the needs, and whether it can support modernization.

Formulate elevator specifications

Clearly define the goals of the elevator, including the future number of passengers, building grade, technical requirements, and available space, to ensure that the system meets the needs.

Identify parts that can be modified

Focus on parts that are prone to wear (such as machines, gearboxes, door operators, etc.) that can be replaced to improve elevator performance.

Think about passengers

Elevator modernization not only improves efficiency and reduces energy consumption, but also improves the user experience and provides a greener and more efficient mode of transportation.

The above is all about what is elevator modernization. If you still have any questions, please feel free to contact us. As a professional elevator company, BDFUJI not only provides elevators, but also provides you with elevator modernization services. No matter what kind of transformation needs you have, we can meet you.