Elevator Modernization Tips
Part 1: Elevator Modernization Can Bring Green Benefits
Part 2: Green Elevator Cab Construction
Part 3: Elevator Showcase
Green Elevator Cab Construction
By Loren Synder, Contributing Editor - October 2009
Not every building owner will have the budget to thoroughly modernize their elevator's machine systems. Elevator manufacturers realize this and offer cab interior options that allow building owners to capitalize on the green movement.
"You have to make a pretty big capital investment to modernize the elevators," says Fujitec's Rick Lockridge. "So you might want to look at aesthetics — to improve interior finishes first."
Depending upon use, cabs can require refurbishment in just several years with heavy traffic.
Although not related to energy efficiency, cab refurbishments present facility executives with more sustainable choices than the prior generation of materials. Most companies offer interior retrofit selections that include low- or no-VOC paint, adhesives and sealants. Panels and carpeting are usually made of recycled or reclaimed materials, and are designed to minimize waste and maximize indoor air quality for occupants. 
— Loren Snyder
Comments
Ray_S wrote re: Green Elevator Cab Construction
on 10/28/2009 11:07:27 AM
What about LEDs?
jmdavis16 wrote re: Green Elevator Cab Construction
on 10/20/2009 2:35:29 PM
To add on to the idea of flourescent lighting, when we specify elevator modernizations we make it a requirement that if the elevator is taken out of dispatch due to inactivity, the light and fan circuits are turned off. Of course the modernization energy savings will far outweigh the usage of the lights and fans but every little bit counts.
dbearg wrote re: Green Elevator Cab Construction
on 10/16/2009 4:34:17 PM
One way for elevator cabs to become greener would be to use compact flourescent lighting as opposed to what's using there, energy wasting and needless heat generating incandescent bulbs.
David W. Bearg, PE, CIH
