Most freight elevator systems are highly specialized, so it's important to call a professional repair service as soon as you notice any issues with your system. Freight elevators are essential in many businesses and operations. They carry heavy equipment, products, and workers up and down all day. This means that any downtime can have serious consequences for businesses. Knowing the signs that indicate a need for repairs can help you minimize risks and maintain your elevator car's efficiency. Here are a few key signs that it's time to call elevator repair services.

1. Unusual Noises

The only noises you should hear from a functioning elevator system are those from the elevator motor, elevator car, and elevator brakes. If you hear popping, squeaking, clanking, or grinding noises while the elevator is in motion, something has gone wrong with your system. Unusual elevator noises are usually a sign of a mechanical issue. If left unchecked, the noise may indicate more severe damage, which could lead to an elevator malfunction.

2. Slow Response Times

If your elevator takes longer than usual to respond to requests, or the elevator car doesn't stop at the proper floor, something is wrong. Slow response times can happen due to faulty wiring or broken cables. Ignoring these signs can cause further damage and cost your business more money in the long run. When dealing with freight, time is of the essence, so a slow elevator can be costly in terms of creating late deliveries.

3. Strange Odors

Sometimes repairs are necessary due to strange odors that may come from the elevator car. These smells could indicate an electrical issue, which should be dealt with by a professional elevator technician as soon as possible. If you smell smoke or burning odors, you may have a more serious problem requiring prompt elevator repair services. Sometimes the smell may be caused by a may stem from a minor issue, such as dusty elevator components. If the smell lingers and elevator technicians can't identify the source, a more serious issue may be at hand, which could cause elevator downtime.

4. Warm Surfaces

Have you noticed elevator floors that feel warm to the touch? This could indicate motor problems or an overload of electricity. Heat is a common sign of electrical issues, and could cause elevator downtime if not taken care of quickly. An overheated motor could malfunction or cause a fire, so it's important to call elevator repair services for an inspection as soon as you notice anything out of the ordinary.

5. Uneven Flooring

The car should be level with the elevator floor at all times. However, the floor may become uneven due to misaligned rollers or broken elevator cables. This could cause the elevator car to shake when moving up and down, which is not only dangerous for passengers but can also lead to more serious elevator damage. Uneven flooring can also result from overuse.

6. System Overloading

If your elevator is overloading due to heavy freight or too many passengers, you should consider elevator repair services. An overloaded elevator can cause the cables to break, resulting in a free-falling elevator car. Overloading is especially dangerous in a freight elevator, as it can become weakened due to the weight of the cargo.

7. Outdated System

If your elevator is outdated, it's time to modernize it with a replacement. You'll know it's outdated when the elevator begins malfunctioning often and is no longer meeting the demands of your business. Check the elevator's age, and call service professionals to upgrade your elevator with the latest technology if needed. Bear in mind, it may take time as elevator installation requires special attention and care. Plan accordingly, because your freight elevator may have to be out of commission for a bit.

Call elevator repair services as soon as you notice these signs. According to Brandon Gaille, more than 1.1 million elevator units are expected to be ordered for new installations through 2022 as the industry transforms into smart elevator designs. Such repairs will help ensure that your elevator remains safe and efficient for years to come. If you recognize the signs of elevator malfunction listed above, call Carlsen Elevator Service right away.