Elevator independent service - Get that couch in!

A useful feature on newer elevator systems is called “independent service” and can be used to assist move in and move outs or people moving large objects.  I was at a building this week and watched 3 guys ram a couch in the elevator, they worked on getting this couch in there for at least 20 minutes with the door closing on the couch every 20 seconds.  I just so happened to be at the building doing engineering on a modernization.  Good news, they got the couch in and they finally got it out of the building with out breaking the elevator. The last time we blogged about this was in 2014 so it is about time for a update.

How to use independent service - To use the independent service feature is very simple.  A person puts the key in the key switch, turn to the on position.  When the key is in the on position the doors will remain open and the elevator will not take any hall calls.  The person in the elevator has complete control of the elevator system.  When the person is ready to have the elevator go to the desired floor they hold down the door close button, the door will close and the elevator will go to the desired floor.  The feature prevents the door from ramming the object someone is trying to get in the elevator and prevents hall calls from taking the elevator away from the movers.

Where is the Independent service key switch – Sometimes this key switch is above the elevator buttons labeled “Independent Service” and other times it is behind a locked cabinet and may be a key switch or have a toggle switch.

Do all elevators have independent service – No, newer elevator systems will have this feature.  If you would like to know if you do, call your elevator contractor.  You can always take a picture of your car operating panel, send it to your account rep and they can let you know.

How do I get keys and training – Your elevator contractor can supply you with keys and training for this feature.

If a building is better educated on how to use the independent service feature on the elevator system you most probably will get fewer calls that the elevator is broken during moves.   It is understood that building occupants will not always pay attention to the request that you must use the independent service feature but, if it saves a few service calls a year, the building will have fewer bills to pay the elevator contractor.  As a contractor we are always more than happy to come out and show you how this feature on the elevator system works

If you have any questions or would like additional information feel free to contact me at CraigZ@colleyelevator.com or 630-766-7230 ext. 107.

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