Powerlift Dumbwaiter & Mezzanine Lift FAQ

Q - Who installs the dumbwaiter?

A -  The contractor you hire to build the shaft can easily install the dumbwaiter.  Our dumbwaiters are designed to make installation relatively easy using basic hand tools.  Some counties require a licensed elevator technician to do the installation.  You need to check with your local code enforcement office or inspector to determine whether a special license is required in your area.

Q - Is the installation difficult?

A -  Our dumbwaiters are designed to make installation relatively easy using basic hand tools.

Q - What is the average install time?

A -  The rough installation should take 2 – 4 hours.  The finish installation time will vary based on accessories and the number of stops.  Finish installation should not take more than 1 hour per stop.

Q - Is there any wiring required?

A -  Our dumbwaiters are pre-wired, however, there will be a few plug-in connectors and some wire nuts that will need to be connected by the installer.  Your electrician will need to run power to the dumbwaiter from your power source.

Q - Where is the motor located?

A -  The motor can be located at the top or bottom of the dumbwaiter.  You will need to specify the location of the motor when you place your order.

Q - Does the dumbwaiter meet my local codes?

A -  Our standard dumbwaiters include most code required safeties; however, codes vary from country, state, and county so it will be necessary for you or your contractor to contact your local code enforcement office to find out what they require.  When ordering your dumbwaiter let us know what your local code enforcement office requires so any necessary accessories can be added at an additional cost.

Q - Is a permit required?

A -  Codes vary by country, state, and county so it will be necessary for you or your contractor to contact your local code enforcement office to find out if a permit is required.

Q - What maintenance is required?

A -  Our dumbwaiters are low maintenance.  Bi-annual maintenance is recommended and consists of checking chain tension and adjusting as needed as well as lubricating a few key points.

Q - What speed does the dumbwaiter travel up & down?

A -  Most of our dumbwaiters travel up & down at 36 or 45 feet per minute.  Faster speeds can be achieved on some models by reducing the weight capacity.  Please call us for additional information on travel speeds.

Q - How many stops can there be?

A -  How many stops do you need?  We build every dumbwaiter to suit your specific design requirements. 

Q - What is the maximum travel?

A -  How much do you need?  We build every dumbwaiter to suit your specific design requirements.

Q - Can there be two doors at one stop?

A -  Yes, you can have multiple openings at each stop, as well as a double door on one opening at an additional cost.

Q - Can the dumbwaiter car be open on three sides?

A -  Yes, the dumbwaiter car can have openings on three sides.  The fourth side is reserved for the track system.

Q - Does the dumbwaiter come with hoist-way doors?

A -  Hoist-way doors are not included in the base price.  Please contact us for door options and pricing.

Q - How long will it take to get the dumbwaiter after ordering?

A -  Typically, once we receive approval signatures and payment, the dumbwaiter will be ready to ship in 3 to 4 weeks.  We can expedite the build and ship the dumbwaiter in 7 to 10 days at an additional cost.  Please call us for expedited pricing.  Shipping time varies based on your location.  Please call us for an accurate time frame.

Q - Does the dumbwaiter have a warranty?

A -  Our residential dumbwaiters have a 5 year, parts only, limited warranty.  Our commercial dumbwaiters have a 2 year, parts only, limited warranty.

Q - What safety features does the dumbwaiter have?

A -  Our standard safety features include hoist-way door locks and switches.  Other safety features available are final limits, keyed on/off switches, car gate switches, hoist-way door interlocks, mechanical trolley brakes and slack chain switches.

Q - Can the size of the dumbwaiter car be customized?

A -  Yes, we build every dumbwaiter to suit your specific design requirements.  Some custom sizes are only available at an additional cost.

Q - Are the dumbwaiters in stock and ready to ship?

A -  No, we build every dumbwaiter to suit your specific design requirements.