Common Elevator Problems and Solutions
Troubleshooting Your Lift
Elevators are essential for modern buildings, but they’re not immune to occasional problems. Whether it’s a strange noise, a sudden stop, or a complete shutdown, one of the common elevator problems can disrupt your building’s flow and cause inconvenience.
At Tower Lifts, we’ve seen our fair share of them. With over 17 years of experience in the industry, our repair team is experienced at diagnosing and resolving elevator problems. In this blog, we’ll share that experience to help you troubleshoot common elevator problems and find the right solutions.
Common Elevator Problem 1 – Rattling or Squealing Sounds
Do you hear a rattling or squealing noise when your elevator is in motion? This isn’t just an annoying sound; it’s often a telltale sign of trouble with your elevator’s motor bearings. These bearings are crucial for smooth and quiet operation, and any unusual noise coming from them requires immediate attention.
The Cause
Elevator motor bearings wear down over time due to constant use and friction. As they degrade, they can become loose or misaligned, resulting in the rattling or squealing sounds you hear. Ignoring these noises can lead to further damage, potentially causing the motor to overheat, seize, or even fail.
The Solution
If you notice any unusual noises coming from your elevator motor, contact a lift repair company like Tower Lifts immediately. The longer the problem persists, the more extensive (and expensive) the damage may become. Our experienced team will diagnose the issue, replace the faulty bearings, and get your elevator running smoothly and safely again.
Common Elevator Problem 2 – Power Supply Failure
Perhaps the most obvious elevator problem is a complete shutdown. The elevator stops working entirely, with the lights off and the car immobile. This is a clear indication of a power supply failure to the elevator system.
The Cause
Power outages can stem from various sources, some within your control and others beyond it. Common causes include:

- Building-wide electrical issues – Scheduled maintenance, faulty wiring, or tripped circuit breakers can disrupt power to the entire building, including the elevator.
- External power cuts – Storms, grid overloads, or accidents can cause widespread power outages affecting your area.
- Lift-specific electrical faults – A blown fuse, malfunctioning wiring within the elevator system, or problems with the elevator’s dedicated power supply can also lead to a shutdown.
The Solution
While you can’t always prevent power failures, you can take steps to mitigate their impact:
- Emergency Communication – Make sure that your elevator has a reliable, battery-powered emergency communication system. This allows trapped passengers to contact help even during a power outage. (This is also a legal requirement in the UK, as per EN81-1 and EN81-2 safety standards).
- Backup Power – Consider installing an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for your elevator. This provides temporary power during outages, allowing the elevator to safely move to the nearest floor and open its doors.
- Regular Maintenance – Schedule routine servicing and maintenance with Tower Lifts to identify and address potential electrical issues before they cause a shutdown.
Common Elevator Problem 3 – Lift Misalignment
When the elevator car stops at a floor, the cabin floor should be perfectly level with the landing. If you notice a gap, even a small one, this indicates a misalignment issue that needs attention. This misalignment can create a tripping hazard, especially for people with mobility impairments.
The Cause
Several factors can contribute to lift misalignment:
- Worn out components – Over time, the elevator’s braking system, guide rails, or levelling mechanisms can wear down, affecting its ability to stop accurately at floor level.
- Excess load – Consistently exceeding the elevator’s weight capacity can strain the system and contribute to misalignment.
- Control panel issues – Problems with the elevator’s control panel can disrupt the signals that control stopping accuracy.
- Hydraulic pressure (in hydraulic lifts) – A loss of hydraulic pressure can affect the elevator’s ability to maintain proper levelling.
The Solution
If you suspect a misalignment issue, take action promptly. Contact Tower Lifts to schedule an assessment of the problem. Our team will:
- Identify the root cause – We’ll assess the elevator’s braking system, guide rails, control panel, and hydraulics (if applicable) to pinpoint the source of the misalignment.
- Perform necessary repairs –Whether it involves adjusting brakes, replacing worn components, or recalibrating the control system, we’ll ensure your elevator stops level with each floor.
- Prevent future problems – We’ll advise on proper elevator usage, load limits, and maintenance schedules to reduce the risk of this occurring again.

Common Elevator Problem 4 – Lift Doors Sticking Shut
One of the most frustrating elevator problems (and the most frightening if you’re stuck in the lift) is when the doors refuse to open, trapping passengers inside or preventing access to the lift. This can be caused by a variety of issues with the door mechanisms.
The Cause
Here are some of the potential reasons for sticking elevator doors:
- Misaligned sensors – The sensors that detect obstructions in the doorway have become misaligned, preventing the doors from opening even when it’s safe.
- Mechanical faults – Problems with the door tracks, rollers, or closing mechanisms can obstruct the doors’ movement.
- Worn-out parts – Over time, door components like hinges, rollers, and guides can wear out, leading to sticking or jamming.
- Inadequate lubrication – Insufficient lubrication of moving parts can create friction, making it difficult for the doors to open and close smoothly.
- Electrical faults – Problems with the door motor, control system, or wiring can also prevent the doors from functioning correctly.
The Solution
While a stuck elevator door is alarming, it’s important that both passengers stuck in the lift car, and people trying to help on the outside remain calm. Here’s what to do:
- Use the emergency communication system – If trapped inside, use the elevator’s emergency phone or alarm button for help.
- Don’t attempt to force the doors open – This can cause further damage.
- Contact Tower Lifts – Our repair team will can diagnose the specific issue, whether it’s a sensor misalignment, mechanical fault, or electrical problem, and carry out the necessary repairs to get your elevator doors operating smoothly again.
Lift Emergency? Tower Lifts is On Call 24/7
While we’re always here for emergencies, the best way to avoid elevator problems is through preventative maintenance. Regular servicing by Tower Lifts can identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major disruptions.
Our comprehensive maintenance visits include routine servicing, and system adjustments to ensure your elevator operates smoothly and reliably. By investing in preventative maintenance, you can minimise downtime, extend the lifespan of your equipment, and improve passenger safety.
At Tower Lifts, safety and quality are at the heart of everything we do. Our commitment to these principles is backed by our accreditations, including ISO 9001:2015 for quality management, ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety, and UKAS LiftCert for industry best practices. We’re also members of LEIA (Lift and Escalator Industry Association), ensuring we stay up to date with the latest industry standards and advancements.