Installing a shaftless elevator like Pollock Residential Elevator with floor heating involves a combination of specialized installation processes for both the elevator system and the heating solution. Here’s a step-by-step outline of the process:
1. Planning and Design
- Determine Location: Choose the area where the shaftless Pollock Residential elevator will be installed. Shaftless elevators are typically used in residential settings for accessibility, so you need to ensure there’s enough space and a stable foundation.
- Elevator Type: Choose the right type of shaftless elevator, like a Pollock Residential elevator or a platform lift or a pneumatic vacuum elevator. Different models have different requirements. However, with pneumatic & hydraulic elevators, the cost of after sale service can create a dent in your pocket.
- Floor Heating Design: Decide on the type of floor heating system you want (electric vs. hydronic heating) and make sure it is compatible with the elevator installation.
- Consult Professionals: Work with an architect, elevator supplier like Cairo Contracting, and a floor heating expert to ensure the systems are designed to fit together without interfering with each other. Cairo Contracting has their own team of expert professionals for floor heating/ plumbing & electrical to make the process easy and smooth for the end-user.
2. Structural Modifications (if required)
- If the installation location requires modifications to the structure (e.g., reinforcement of the floor), ensure the space can support both the elevator and floor heating system.
- For shaftless elevators, ensure there’s enough headroom, particularly if you’re installing it in a multi-level space.
- Electrical and Plumbing Work: Ensure there is space for electrical wiring for the elevator and floor heating system. If hydronic heating is used, you may need plumbing for the heating pipes.
3. Floor Heating Installation
- Electric Floor Heating: This involves laying electric cables or mats on the floor before the surface is covered with the final flooring (tile, hardwood, etc.). The electrical system should be connected to a thermostat to control the temperature.
- Hydronic Floor Heating: This involves laying pipes beneath the floor surface to circulate hot water. The pipes are connected to a boiler or water heater.
- Coordinate with Elevator: Ensure the floor heating system is not installed in the exact area where the elevator components will be installed (such as the platform or control area).
4. Elevator Installation
- Base Installation: The shaftless elevator typically sits on a stable base or platform. Ensure this is level and in the right position according to the design.
- Electrical Connections: The elevator will need to be connected to an electrical supply to power the motor, controls, and any safety systems.
- Integration with Floor Heating: The elevator’s control panel or components should not interfere with the floor heating system. Ensure that floor heating elements don’t get installed where the elevator rails or guide systems go.
- Safety Considerations: Make sure there are safety features like emergency brakes, sensors, and proper clearances around the elevator.
5. Testing and Commissioning
- After installation, the elevator and floor heating system should be tested separately to ensure they work as intended.
- Check the functionality of the elevator, ensuring smooth operation.
- Test the floor heating system to ensure even heat distribution and proper temperature control.
- Ensure the two systems do not interfere with each other, especially concerning electrical and thermal outputs.
6. Final Adjustments
- Flooring Finish: Once the floor heating is operational, you can finish the flooring around the elevator.
- Cleaning and Inspection: Clean up any debris from the installation process and inspect the systems to ensure there are no malfunctions.
- User Training: If required, get training on how to use the elevator and control the floor heating system effectively.
7. Maintenance Considerations
- Both systems will require regular maintenance:
- Elevator Maintenance: Periodic checks for mechanical wear and electrical issues. For Pollock Residential Elevator, the smart screen tells you when the service is required, which is after the completion of 1,750 cycles.
- Floor Heating Maintenance: If you have hydronic heating, you’ll need to ensure the pipes don’t become blocked. Electric systems require occasional checks for continuity in the cables.
It’s essential to hire professionals like Cairo Contracting who specialize in both elevator installation and floor heating to ensure both systems work harmoniously and meet local safety codes.
