At the end of May and again at the end of June, consecutive heatwaves have battered the UK, providing blistering hot sunshine and having a remarkable effect on a national infrastructure used to keeping heat in rather than blocking it out.
Whilst much of this effect is felt on roads, railway lines, water facilities and power plants, it also has a remarkable effect on buildings and a device millions of people use every day.
In particular, passenger lifts can sometimes be significantly affected by the heat, particularly if they are of an older design or have not been properly and appropriately maintained.
How could this affect your lift? And what can you do to keep your lift working throughout even the hottest days?
Why Are Lifts Affected By Hot Weather?
Aside from making the conditions inside uncomfortable and increasing the reliance on ventilation and central heating, there are three main ways lifts are affected by a heatwave.
Thinning Hydraulic Fluid
Most lift systems are powered by hydraulics, and the displacement of fluids is often how lifts can move not only the car itself but everyone and everything in it.
The heat causes fluids to expand and thin out, which can make operations less reliable.
Motor Breakdowns
Motors produce heat whilst in operation, and if they produce too much heat, they might slow down or stop entirely for safety reasons.
Electronic Failures
Electronics are far less reliable in heat, usually leading to thermal shutdowns or system faults.
How Do You Keep Your Lifts Working In Hot Weather?
- Book a summer inspection to check for signs of potential wear and strain in extreme heat. Report early issues as soon as possible.
- Ensure that control panels and motor rooms are properly ventilated and have air conditioning to keep them cool enough for effective operation.
- Proactively upgrade older components, as newer ones will typically be designed to take the strain better.