Lift Modernisation for KONE Lifts in Singapore: Must-read For Lift Owners
Are you a lift owner or property manager in Singapore looking to breathe new life into your ageing KONE lifts? Lift modernisation might be the solution you're seeking.
As Singapore's skyline continues to evolve, so too must its vertical transportation systems. By upgrading your old KONE lifts, you'll not only improve safety and reliability, but also perceived property value. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of lift modernisation for old KONE lifts in Singapore and how it can add value to your property.
Common Issues with Old KONE Lifts in Singapore
Ageing KONE lifts in Singapore that are more than 15 years old often face problems that can significantly impact building operations and user satisfaction. These issues typically stem from outdated technology, wear and tear over time as well as components reaching the end of their useful life span, leading to frequent lift breakdowns and increased lift maintenance costs.
Frequent Lift Breakdowns Cause Tenant & Resident Dissatisfaction
Ageing lifts tend to cause considerable inconvenience to tenants and residents. You'll notice a rise in complaints about unreliable service with lifts often breaking down every other day and taking longer each time to recover.
These issues can be particularly problematic in high-rise buildings or where there is only a single lift, where the lifts are essential for daily mobility. The resulting complaints can cause a big headache for property managers, may even damage a building's reputation and significantly bring down the property value and desirability.
In residential buildings, elderly residents and individuals with mobility impairments are significantly impacted as they depend primarily on lifts to access their homes. On the other hand, commercial properties risk losing clientele and tenants when lifts consistently prove unreliable.
Obsolete Technology and Components Leads to Longer Downtime & Higher Repair Costs
Outdated technology and components in older KONE lifts also pose significant challenges for lift maintenance and repairs. You'll find that spare parts for these lifts become increasingly scarce, leading to extended downtime periods when issues arise.
This scarcity often results in higher repair costs as lift maintenance companies struggle to source compatible components. In certain instances, custom fabrication may even be necessary, which consequently escalates costs.
Prolonged downtime, when combined with higher lift maintenance costs, often nullifies any advantage that comes from delaying lift modernisation.
Understanding Lift Modernisation in Singapore
As a property manager or lift owner, you'll find that lift modernisation goes beyond simple repairs or regular lift maintenance.
Modernisation efforts can range from partial refurbishment to full system overhauls. Common enhancements include replacing with energy-efficient motors and drives, upgrading control systems for smoother operation, enhancing safety features, and improving accessibility with larger buttons and clearer displays.
In Singapore, the lift modernisation process typically includes:
Assessment: Evaluating the current lift system's condition and performance
Planning: Developing a tailored modernisation strategy
Implementation: Executing the upgrade with minimal disruption to building operations
Fulfilling regulatory requirements: Most lift modernisation projects in Singapore fall under major alteration or replacement (A/R) works, which is a process regulated by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA)
When considering lift modernisation, it's crucial to work with a BCA-approved lift contractor that will ensure upgrades comply with Singapore's strict safety regulations.
Our Approach Towards Lift Modernisation
Hin Chong distinguishes itself from leading lift manufacturers by offering an unbiased perspective on lift systems. We employ non-proprietary systems, guaranteeing that your future lift maintenance choices remain fully flexible.
For clients interested in our services after modernisation, we offer attractive comprehensive lift maintenance packages, which includes extended warranty for the entire maintenance period.
Benefits of Modernising Your KONE Lift
Modernising your old KONE lift in Singapore offers many advantages for your property and its occupants. Here's a look at the key benefits you'll experience:
Increased Reliability & Performance
There are a few ways that lift modernisation helps with reliability and performance.
Malfunctions often arise from worn-out electrical components, especially electromechanical parts such as relays and contactors, which have a limited lifespan. Modernising the electrification system of an older lift replaces outdated relays and electrical components to improve performance, safety, and energy efficiency.
Older lifts often struggle with levelling accuracy as well—modernisation can include the installation of advanced sensors and control algorithms that ensure precise levelling. This improvement minimises tripping hazards when entering or exiting the lift, especially critical for individuals using wheelchairs or mobility devices.
Ultimately, lifts experience fewer breakdowns and maintenance issues when ageing components are replaced with modern equivalents. Newer parts are designed to be more durable and reliable, which decreases the frequency of repairs and associated downtime.
Improved Safety Features
Lift modernisation brings your old KONE lift up to current safety standards, offering peace of mind for you and your building's occupants.
Modernisation works that will improve safety include upgrading the controller (the lift's brain), replacing the hoisting unit (the part of your lift that does the hard work), and incorporating advanced emergency communication systems.
Upgrading KONE lifts may also involve modernising elements such as the shaft and machine room lighting, the car overspeed governor, and the machinery guards. These enhancements significantly improve safety and facilitate more effective risk management within your building.
Enhanced Building Value & Marketability
A modernised lift can significantly boost your property's value and appeal. Modern lift interiors with contemporary designs and finishes create a positive first impression for visitors and potential tenants.
Energy-efficient components, such as LED lighting and energy-regeneration technology, can lead to lower operating costs and improved sustainability ratings. In fact, today’s machine room-less lifts in the market generally offer up to 90% greater efficiency compared to the older lift models from the 1990s.
These upgrades demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a high-quality property, potentially attracting premium tenants and increasing rental yields. Also, a modernised lift system can be a key selling point when marketing your property, setting it apart from competitors in the Singapore real estate market.
Work With a BCA-approved Lift Contractor for Lift Modernisation in Singapore
Modernising your KONE lifts is a crucial investment for your property's future in Singapore. By upgrading your lift systems, you'll enhance safety and reliability while boosting your building's value.
As a BCA-approved lift contractor, we're happy to guide you through the entire process and ensure compliance with regulations. Learn more about our lift modernisation services, or feel free to contact Hin Chong for a free lift assessment by our qualified Lift & Escalator Inspector (LEI).
