Does Your Lift Need a Retirement Plan?
Does Your Lift Need a Retirement Plan?
Planning a Lift Replacement With Tower Lifts
It’s easy to forget about your lift, isn’t it? It’s just there, quietly and – fairly – reliably getting people where they need to go. But your lift isn’t going to last forever. Eventually, those gears will start to groan, those buttons will get a bit sticky, and those doors might develop a mind of their own.
Have you arrived at that stage? Does your lift need a retirement plan? A strategy for a smooth, efficient, and perhaps even exciting lift upgrade?
Here at Tower Lifts, we’ve been designing, installing, and yes, respectfully retiring lifts across the UK for the past two decades. So, if you’re starting to wonder if your lift is nearing its last stop, read on. We’ll help you spot the telltale signs, explore your options, and guide you through the whole process.
Is Your Lift Ready for Retirement? The Telltale Signs
While the lifespan of a lift varies, there are some common indicators that it might be time to start thinking about a replacement. Think of it like this – your lift is trying to tell you something, but it’s speaking in its own unique language. Here’s how to decipher the signs:
1. Frequent Breakdowns
Just like that old car that’s always in the garage, a lift that’s constantly breaking down is a major red flag. These breakdowns can lead to inconvenient downtime, frustrated passengers, and safety concerns.
2. Strange Noises
Clunks, bangs, and groans! If your lift is sounding ‘old’, it’s definitely trying to tell you something. Unusual noises often indicate wear and tear on essential components, which will lead to bigger problems without attention.
3. Slow Speed and Jerky Rides
Remember the days when your lift used to speed between the floors? If it’s now moving sluggishly or giving passengers a bumpy ride, it’s a sure sign that the mechanics are starting to struggle.
4. Outdated Technology
Technology moves fast, and lifts are no exception. An outdated lift can mean higher energy bills, limited functionality, and difficulty finding replacement parts. Plus, passengers don’t want to feel like they’re depending on outdated technology every time they use the lift.
5. Accessibility Issues
Modern lifts are designed with accessibility in mind. If your lift doesn’t meet current accessibility standards, it’s not only inconvenient for some users, but it could also be a legal issue.
6. Yesterday’s Aesthetics
A dated lift can really drag down the overall impression of your building. While a sleek, modern lift says “sophistication” and “progress,” a worn-out one whispers “neglect.”
7. Increasing Maintenance Costs
As lifts age, they require more frequent and expensive maintenance. If you’re constantly pouring money into repairs, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a new, more reliable lift.
8. Exceeding its Expected Lifespan
An electric traction lift will last between 20 and 25 years, while a hydraulic lift has an expected lifespan of 15 years. If your lift is approaching or exceeding this age, it’s wise to start planning for its replacement.
Your Lift’s Journey to Retirement: A Smooth Transition with Tower Lifts
Replacing a lift might seem like a large and unwieldy task, but with the right partner, it can be a smooth and satisfying process. At Tower Lifts, we’ve perfected the art of lift retirement, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum satisfaction for our clients. Here’s a glimpse into your lift’s journey to retirement with us:

The Farewell Tour (Lift Removal) – Every good retirement starts with a proper send-off. Our expert team will carefully dismantle and remove your old lift, taking care to restrict disruption to your building and the people using it. We handle everything from disconnecting the lift to safely disposing of the components, ensuring a responsible and environmentally friendly removal process.
Planning the Perfect Successor (Scoping the Project) – Before we introduce the new lift, we take the time to understand your building’s unique needs and your vision for the future. We’ll assess your building’s traffic patterns, accessibility requirements, and aesthetic preferences to determine the ideal lift solution for you. This collaborative approach ensures that your new lift is perfectly tailored to your building and its users.
Designing the Future of Vertical Transportation (Lift Design) – Our lift designers will work closely with you to create a lift that’s not only functional and efficient but also complements your building’s style. We’ll guide you through the selection of finishes, features, and technologies, ensuring your new lift is a perfect blend of form and function.
Welcoming the New Arrival (Lift Installation) – With the design finalised, Tower Lifts engineers will install your new lift. As an ISO9001:2015 LiftCert and UKAS-approved company, we work to the strictest safety and regulatory standards. We’ll handle every detail, from the initial construction to the final testing and commissioning, ensuring a smooth and efficient installation process.
Enjoying the Golden Years (Ongoing Support) – Our commitment to you extends beyond the installation. We offer comprehensive maintenance and servicing to keep your new lift running smoothly for years to come. Think of us as your lift’s trusted companion, ensuring it enjoys a long and happy retirement.
Ready to give your lift the retirement it deserves? Don’t wait for those telltale signs to become major headaches.