Pitless Elevators: Types and Benefits

What is a Pitless Elevator (Lift Without a Pit)

A Pitless elevator is essentially a lift without a pit. Pitless elevators are a type of elevator designed without the traditional pit at the base of the shaft. They do not require a deep foundation pit, typically 8 to 14 inches deep, as traditional elevators. This makes them suitable for limited spaces and adaptable to different architectural designs.

You can install them directly on an existing floor with only a minimum depression required, usually about 2 inches. Pit elevators are an excellent alternative for homes where the installation of traditional elevators is impractical.

They eliminate the need to force an excavation where it is not feasible or desirable due to structural constraints, cost, or environmental concerns. Pitless elevators are mostly applicable in residential settings.

How Does a Pitless Elevator Work?

The million-dollar question is if it does not require a pit, how then does a pitless elevator work? The working principle of a pitless elevator depends on the type of elevator. However, they operate generally above ground level, making them suitable for environments where digging a pit is not feasible.
For instance, a hydraulic pitless elevator works by using a hydraulic cylinder and piston to move the elevator car up and down. The hydraulics can either be installed on the floor directly or mounted on a sidewall.

Pitless traction or belt-driven elevator systems utilize ropes or belts, typically anchored to a counterweight and a motor-driven pulley system. The elevator cab is suspended in the shaft without requiring a pit, using shorter or special suspension elements.

Types of Pitless Home Elevators

Shaftless Home Elevators

Shaftless elevators are designed to provide vertical transportation without the need for a shaft or pit. This allows for quick installation and can be fitted into tight spaces and existing stair walls. They generally use a platform lift mechanism, where the elevator car moves along a vertical guide rail attached to the wall. They do not require major renovations to retrofit into existing homes.

Features

• Compact design and space efficient, suitable for homes with limited spaces
• Generally used for short distances (1-2) floors.
• Open or partially open car design.
• Many models come with battery backups to ensure continuous operations during power outages.

Pneumatic Vacuum Elevators

Pneumatic Vacuum elevators (PVEs) are a modern type of pitless elevators. They use air pressure to move elevator cars and do not require a traditional shaft, pit, or machine room. That makes them suitable for retrofit installations or buildings where digging a pit is impractical due to structural or environmental concerns.

PVEs are compact and generally require a smaller footprint compared to conventional elevators. They have a self-contained shaft design, which means they can be installed almost anywhere in the home, even in tight spaces or the corner of a room. They provide quick installation, are energy efficient, and cause less construction disruption.

PVEs often feature transparent designs and a futuristic look, providing panoramic views as they travel between floors. The panoramic view complements modern home designs. The aesthetic appeal reduces any sense of claustrophobia. However, PVEs have a limited capacity, which may not be suitable for heavy mobility equipment or larger families.

They are typically designed for low-rise buildings which can serve up to 3-5 floors, depending on the model, making them appropriate for residential homes.

Hydraulic Pitless Elevators

Hydraulic pitless elevators use a hydraulic cylinder and piston to move the elevator car up and down without the need for deep pit excavation. In this design, the cylinder is mounted on the floor or wall rather than moving below the ground. These elevators operate smoothly and quietly and can accommodate heavier loads compared to other types.
They are suitable for low-rise homes (3-4 floors). However, they require space for a hydraulic pump unit, often in a nearby room or closet.
In conventional hydraulic elevators, the cylinder and piston are often installed in a pit below the ground floor. This pit allows the piston to retract completely and the elevator car to descend further, stopping slightly below the ground level. In a pitless system, the cylinder and piston are shorter and do not extend into a pit below the floor.

Traction Pitless Elevators

Traction pitless elevators utilize a motor-driven pulley system with ropes or belts to move the cab up and down. In the pitless design, the counterweight and roping system adjusted to work without a depressed pit.
It does not require a machine room, is quieter, more energy efficient, and low maintenance, making it ideal for buildings up to 5 floors. However, it may require structural support in the shaft area.

Benefits of Pitless Elevator

Easy Installation
Pitless elevators are easy to install as they do not require extensive excavation for a pit. This reduces construction and installation time.

Space Efficiency
Pitless elevators are space efficient because they eliminate the need for a deep pit and overhead space. This makes them ideal for environments with limited space and retrofitting in existing buildings.

Lower construction costs
The elimination of deep excavation and reinforced pit walls in pitless elevators helps to reduce materials, labor, and general project expenses.

Enhanced Accessibility
In pitless elevators, the elevator car rests directly on the ground floor, eliminating any gap or step at the entry point. This is advantageous for people with mobility challenges, including wheelchairs.

Lower maintenance
Pitless elevators are typically easier to maintain than traditional elevators due to their simpler design and fewer components.

Pitless Elevator Application

New Construction: Pitless elevators provide lower construction costs for new residential buildings and offer modern and accessible vertical transportation between different floors without the need for a pit or machine room. They also maximize space.

Retrofitting Existing Homes: Pitless elevators are suitable for retrofitting into existing homes because they do not require extensive structural modifications. They can be installed in areas with limited space or low overhead clearance, making them ideal for older homes.

Accessibility: Pitless elevators offer floor-level entry, making them an excellent choice for homes, designed to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges or disabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions on Pitless Elevators

What is the Capacity of a Pitless Elevator?
The capacity of a pitless elevator varies depending on the model, typically ranging from 400 lbs (2 people) to 1000 lbs (6 people).

What is the Speed of a Pitless Elevator?
The speed of a pitless elevator can vary from 20 to 60 fpm, depending on the model.

What is the lifespan of a Pitless Elevator?
A pitless elevator can last 30 years, but its lifespan depends on several factors, including the usage and the maintenance of the pitless elevator.

Conclusion

Pitless elevators are modern, innovate elevators that provide vertical transportation without the need for excavation. Aside from their innovative design, they offer modern aesthetic, save space. They can be installed in tight spaces and are most applicable in residential settings. Are you looking to create your own pitless home elevator? Contact Dazen Elevator today for a customized solution tailored to your needs.