Question 1

What type of wheelchair elevators do you offer for residential applications?

Accepted Answer

We offer different kinds of residential wheelchair elevators:

 	Cibes Air
 	Cibes Primo
 	Symmetry Residential Elevator
 	Symmetry Asterix
 	Symmetry Shaftway VPL
 	Symmetry Enclosure VPL
 	Symmetry Hybrid VPL

Question 2

What type of wheelchair elevators do you offer for commercial applications?

Accepted Answer

We offer different kinds of commercial wheelchair elevators:


 	Cibes Primo
 	Symmetry LULA
 	Symmetry Unenclosed VPL
 	Symmetry Shaftway VPL
 	Symmetry Enclosure VPL
 	Symmetry Hybrid VPL

Question 3

Can I have an elevator instead of stairs?

Accepted Answer

An elevator is intended to provide convenience and access. Elevators can be used instead of stairs, but stairs must never be eliminated. Buildings must have an alternate means of egress, so if the elevator is not working, there is a way to traverse levels.

Question 4

What are the rules about accessibility in the USA?

Accepted Answer

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related regulations are primarily responsible for governing accessibility in the United States. The ADA is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and requires equal access to public accommodations, employment, transportation, and government services.

Question 5

How can you make a building accessible for every visitor?

Accepted Answer

Designing an accessible building has many layers. An elevation change of greater than 1/2 inch is considered an architectural barrier. To overcome an elevation change, a ramp, lift, or elevator should be used. Contact a Cibes Symmetry representative to find the best solution for your site.

Question 6

Are all of your lifts ADA approved?

Accepted Answer

The ADA does not approve anything. The ADA is a civil rights law. Enforcement of the ADA is through private suit or federal agencies when discrimination is alleged. DOJ regulates public accommodations, commercial facilities, and state and local government facilities, while DOT regulates public transportation facilities.

A lift or elevator is only compliant with the rules and regulations of the ADA when properly equipped and installed. You should be looking for Lifts that are compliant with ASME A18.1 or elevators compliant with ASME A17.1.

Question 7

Does the ADA allow key operation?

Accepted Answer

No. Although the lift or elevator is allowed to be locked at times when the building or facility is closed to the public, the lift or elevator must provide unassisted entry, use, and exit during the hours of operation.

Question 8

Will every building require an elevator, ramp or lift?

Accepted Answer

No. Architects have been designing buildings and spaces to be accessible for those with mobility issues for decades. However, if a building or space has an elevation change that is a half inch or greater, a ramp, lift, or elevator is required to overcome this elevation change.

Question 9

What is the ADA and how does it affect our lifts?

Accepted Answer

The ADA is a law designed to eliminate discrimination based on disabilities. We provide products that are intended to overcome architectural barriers, thereby providing equal access to the built environment. The design and manufacture of these products are governed by The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

ASME A17.1 provides guidance for the design and manufacture of Elevators, while ASME A18.1 provides guidance for the design and manufacture of Platform Lifts and Stair Lifts.

The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, as published by the Department of Justice, provide the minimum requirements—both scoping and technical—for newly designed and constructed or altered state and local government facilities, public accommodations, and commercial facilities to be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.

Question 10

How many stops are available on a commercial lift?

Accepted Answer

The standard number of stops for most commercial lifts is 2. Different models and local jurisdictions will vary on what is allowed. For instance, some vertical platform lifts may go up 4 stops, while the LULA elevator may go up to 6 stops with a variance. It is best to speak with a local authorized Cibes Symmetry dealer in your project area to ensure you are meeting local codes.

Question 11

What are LU/LA elevator dimensions?

Accepted Answer

The dimensions for a limited use/limited application elevator are dependent on your needs and application. Download our LULA design guide for details. Or contact your local Symmetry dealer.

Question 12

How much does a LU/LA elevator cost?

Accepted Answer

There are many aspects that go into pricing your LU/LA elevator. Please contact your local Cibes Symmetry dealer for details.

Question 13

What is a LU/LA elevator?

Accepted Answer

The Limited Use/Limited Application (LU/LA) elevator is designed to provide access for low occupancy / low-rise commercial buildings where a traditional passenger elevator is not feasible or required by code.

Question 14

What are the customization options?

Accepted Answer

Creating the look of your elevator is one of the most exciting parts of an elevator purchase. Ask your elevator dealer about customization options and which add-ons they would recommend. Cosmetic customization includes car walls, door styles, light fixtures, and flooring. You can also opt for added mobility features, such as grab bars or a flip-up seat for the elevator car. Think about your preferences so you can clearly explain how you want the elevator to look.

Question 15

What are the minimum hoistway dimensions for a residential elevator?

Accepted Answer

The hoistway dimensions for a home elevator are dependent on several factors; the exit configuration, type of landing and car doors, and the required usable space inside the car will affect the hoistway footprint. Please contact your local authorized Cibes Symmetry representative for more information. Many of the Symmetry products are custom made so accommodating an atypical hoistway is not a problem.

Question 16

Can I fit an elevator in my house?

Accepted Answer

If you have 10 49⁄64ft² to spare, or the space to fit a wardrobe, you can fit an elevator in your house. It might sound unbelievable, but it is true for our smallest elevator with a platform size of 24 x 33”. Unfortunately, people who live in small houses with limited space often assume that there is no room for an elevator in their home, although there most often is.

Question 17

How much space do you need for an elevator?

Accepted Answer

How much space you need for an elevator depends on the type of elevator and elevator size you choose.

If you have 11 ft² to spare, you have enough room to fit a lift in your house. Our smallest elevator model has a 24 x 33” platform size (WxD) and a minimum cut-out size of 40 x 40”. It will literally fit into the space of a wardrobe.

On the other side of the spectrum, our largest goods elevator has a platform size of 56 x 98” (WxD) and a cut-out size of 75 x 103”. A large elevator like that requires 54 ft² but is also large enough to transport a pallet truck loaded with pallets or 8-10 people.

Question 18

Where can I find all technical information about the elevators and lifts?

Accepted Answer

You can find the technical data on this page.

Question 19

How many people can fit into the home elevator?

Accepted Answer

Residential elevators have an average lift capacity of 1,000 pounds, more than enough for four people. The size of the elevator car, however, usually limits the elevator to the number of people it will hold. A typical home elevator car size is 15 square feet.

Question 20

What are LU/LA elevator dimensions?

Accepted Answer

The dimensions for a limited use/limited application elevator are dependent on your needs and application. Download our LULA design guide for details. Or contact your local Symmetry dealer.

Question 21

How much space will I need for a home elevator?

Accepted Answer

Even small residential elevators take up several square feet of your home’s living space. Typically, the minimum space required for a residential elevator is 20 square feet. Depending on your home’s floor plan, you may be able to install the elevator and its shaft in a large closet.

When calculating your elevator space requirement, you need to consider the elevator’s height and the size of the shaft pit, which is usually six to eight inches deep. If a machine room is required, the size of the room should be included in the minimum space necessary for the residential elevator.

You can find more information on elevator space requirements in our blog

Question 22

What is the difference between a Vertical Platform Lift and a stairlift?

Accepted Answer

Under most circumstances, a stairlift will consist of a track mounted to the stairs upon which a motorized chair will travel. A vertical platform lift will consist of a drive tower and a lifting platform, which will travel vertically up or down. A stair lift will only be installed on stairs, whereas a vertical platform lift can be installed almost anywhere.

Question 23

How can an elevator help you to age in place comfortably?

Accepted Answer

There are several ways how an elevator can help you age comfortably in place:

 	You can still make full use of your home and all floors are accessible.
 	An elevator also contributes to home safety. Stairs are a potential hazard on which many accidents happen in America. An elevator reduces the risk of falls, especially among older adults.
 	Multiple generations can use the elevator. When you share your home with your family, the shared areas remain accessible.
 	Then when it does become necessary to move, the value of your home did increase because of the elevator. Potential buyers can use the elevator even longer because of its longevity.

Question 24

Is an elevator a solution to futureproof my home?

Accepted Answer

An elevator in your home is definitely a solution to living longer in your current home. It will reduce the need to use the stairs when your mobility changes.

Question 25

Where can I find the brochures about the elevators and lifts?

Accepted Answer

You can find the brochures on this page.

Question 26

How much noise does a lift make?

Accepted Answer

The amount of noise that a lift makes, depends on the lift type but also on the acoustic environment surrounding the lift. No lift is completely soundless but just like the humming of a fridge, the noise of a lift will generally blend in with the sounds of everyday life.

Question 27

Can you install a new elevator in an old house?

Accepted Answer

Yes, home elevators can be customized to be installed in most homes.

Question 28

What type of home elevator is best for my needs?

Accepted Answer

You have your choice of several elevator types when making your elevator purchase. Your home elevator consultant will explore your options with you so you can choose the best elevator for your needs and home. Typically, you’ll have the choice of the following drive options:
-Inline gear elevators, which do not require machine rooms.
-Hydraulic drive elevators, which use hydraulic pistons for exceptionally quiet rides.
-Winding drum drive elevators, a time-tested drive where heavy-duty cables are attached to a rotating drum.
-Shaftless home elevators are small residential elevators that are ideal when floor space is limited.
-Pitless elevators for situations where home conditions do not allow for the installation of an elevator pit.

Question 29

How to buy a home elevator?

Accepted Answer

Buying a home elevator is a big decision for you and your family. The project may seem daunting at first, but with our step-by-step plan, we are there to assist you. A home elevator can make life easier, provide accessibility or be an investment for the future; at Cibes Symmetry we provide the help necessary to make the most of your lift purchase. Read more about this on our page.

Question 30

How do I choose a home elevator?

Accepted Answer

You should choose a home elevator that fits your needs and your home. Your elevator choice varies depending on a wide range of factors. We offer a range of home elevator products to future-proof your home and enhance your comfort. Choosing a lift will depend on your style preferences, accessibility needs and available space.

Question 31

I had a shaft built for a different home elevator system. Will a Cibes Symmetry Home Elevator fit?

Accepted Answer

We do have options that allow us to fit our home elevators in spaces previously built. You will want to have an authorized Cibes Symmetry dealer confirm the sizing and determine the best option for your current shaft.

Question 32

I do not have room for a pit, do you offer pitless home elevators?

Accepted Answer

At Cibes Symmetry, we do offer different pitless home elevators. The Cibes Air, Cibes Primo, Ascenda, and Symmetry residential lift don't need a pit. You may contact an authorized Cibes Symmetry dealer to discuss the best option for your needs.

Question 33

I need an elevator that goes more than 2 stops. Can your home elevators do this?

Accepted Answer

All Cibes Symmetry Home Elevators come standard with 2 stops. While the shaftless home elevator is only able to go 2 stops, all other Cibes Symmetry Home Elevators may go up to 6 stops.

Question 34

Can I get a 1 stop elevator for my home?

Accepted Answer

While it is common to hear someone say they only need a 1 stop elevator, there will always be a minimum of 2 stops when it comes to a home elevator.

Question 35

Does the home elevator need to mount to a wall?

Accepted Answer

Lifts with low rise (model 60 or less) can be anchored to the floor only. Elevators are not self-supporting and must be anchored to a wall.

Question 36

Should I use a licensed contractor to install my elevator?

Accepted Answer

This is a very common question asked by a lot of our clients. Elevators should only be installed and/or maintained by qualified elevator technicians to ensure the safety of the user. Most states require a contractor's license for the installation of an elevator. Please contact your local Cibes Symmetry dealer to learn more about your state's policies.

Question 37

Who is responsible for the installation of my elevator or lift?

Accepted Answer

Cibes Symmetry dealers are responsible for installing your chosen elevator or lift. Together with them, you discuss where and when the elevator will be installed.

Question 38

Can I just buy the home elevator and install it myself?

Accepted Answer

Many cities and states require licensed elevator mechanics to install a home elevator. An elevator moves people, and it takes over a year to train a technician to safely install an elevator. Most manufacturers require a technician to attend a training school for their product to be certified. Cibes Symmetry elevators are only sold to authorized, factory trained dealers.

Question 39

What’s the difference between material handling lifts and service elevators?

Accepted Answer

While service elevators transport both materials and people, a material handling lift only transports materials. Because material handling lifts only transport goods and materials, the technology is simpler, and the safety codes are less complicated. Material handling lifts are fully operated from the outside, only conveying goods and materials between floors. That means that there is no need for an operating panel and passenger safety features inside the lift car. That makes material handling lifts a much more affordable option than service elevators.

Question 40

What is the speed of material handling lifts?

Accepted Answer

The Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors have a targeted speed of 15-20 feet per minute. The speed will vary slightly depending on rated capacity, platform size, lift height, power supply, and motor/pump size.

Question 41

What are material handling lifts?

Accepted Answer

A Vertical Reciprocating Conveyor (VRC), or material handling lift, is a device that lifts and lowers materials from one level to another. No passengers are permitted on VRCs and the controls are operated on the outside of the lift. For the same reason, there is also no operating panel inside the lift.

Question 42

What types of material handling lifts does Cibes Symmetry offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer three types of Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors (VRC): The VRC, which is a general application lift conveyor, the Symmetry VRC Enclosed, and the Symmetry VRC Shaftway. You can find more information about these lifts on the product pages.

Question 43

How high does a material handling lift go?

Accepted Answer

Material handling lifts, a.k.a. Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors , can have a total travel or lifting height of 36'. The minimal travel between stops is 20".

Question 44

What are material handling lifts used for?

Accepted Answer

Material handling lifts or Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors (VRCs) are used for transporting materials and goods between floors. These lifts are not intended for passenger transport.

Question 45

How much weight can a material handling lift hold?

Accepted Answer

The material handling lifts by Cibes Symmetry have a rated load of up to 6,000 lbs.

Question 46

Can you put an elevator outside?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is possible to install an outdoor elevator. Sometimes home size, floor layout, or building structure make interior elevators impractical. Then choose to place the elevator outside. Contact your local dealer for questions.

Question 47

Why would I choose for an outdoor elevator?

Accepted Answer

If you do not want to sacrifice any of your indoor space, or if there is no good location for an elevator inside your home, installing an elevator on the outside of your house is also possible. An elevator leading directly to the outside also offers you comfortable, direct access to your yard and ties your indoor and outdoor living spaces together. Our Cibes outdoor lifts are equipped for tough weather conditions, including snow and rain. Symmetry VPLs can be used outdoors; otherwise, Symmetry products must be installed in full shaft, including a roof. Water infiltration at outdoor entrances should be addressed, and the best way to do this is to provide an elevator lobby.

Question 48

Can the outdoor elevator withstand all weather conditions?

Accepted Answer

When installing exterior lifts, you must consider the local climate. Outdoor elevators and elevator shafts are designed to withstand most weather conditions. Still, an interior elevator may be the better choice in regions where severe winter cold or other harsh conditions are possibilities. Your local licensed elevator agent can advise you on whether or not an external elevator is right for your climate.

Question 49

Do you offer financing?

Accepted Answer

We do not sell directly to end users. Some of our authorized dealers may offer financing, and you will want to contact your local Cibes Symmetry representative to confirm.

Question 50

Do elevators add value to a home?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, lifts/elevators are known to be a smart home investment, given that they can increase your property value and make your home more appealing to a larger pool of buyers or tenants. The increase in property value varies depending on the type of lift. Typical accessibility lifts like stairlifts or chair lifts don’t add real estate value like vertical platform lifts or cabin lifts do.

Setting aside monetary value, a home lift can bring much value to your home living and comfort. Lifts can help you with everyday chores and make your home a safer, more comfortable place for everyone you love.

Question 51

How much do home elevators cost?

Accepted Answer

The price of home elevators can vary greatly and could be anywhere from $18,000, to more than $100,000. There are so many details to a home elevator to account for; number of levels, car configuration and elevator size, car interior, car gate/door systems, metal finishes, hoistway doors and more. You will want to work with an authorized Cibes Symmetry dealer to answer that question more precisely.

Question 52

What affects the price of an elevator?

Accepted Answer

If you want to know the price for your specific project, we will always ask you some questions first, such as:


 	Will the elevator be installed inside or outside?
 	Is there enough space on each floor to install the elevator, or do adjustments need to be made?
 	How much space do you need inside the elevator? Does the lift need to accommodate a wheelchair?
 	How many floors does it need to service?
 	What is the height between the floors and the total travel?
 	Do you want additional options, such as automatic door openers or customized colors?

Question 53

What if my lift is not working as normal?

Accepted Answer

Elevators are designed to ensure the safety of the passenger. If one of the many checkpoints along the chain of safety is breached, the lift will not move. With the redundant safeties available on VPLs, it can sometimes appear that everything is fine, but the lift will not run.
Check your elevator
Here are a few quick things to check prior to calling for service on your elevator.
1. The controls of a platform lift are required to use constant pressure to make the lift run. Make sure you press and hold the control when trying to move.
2. Ensure that the emergency stop switch is in the run position. The switch is pulled out to run and is pushed in to stop the lift. Confirm you have pulled the stop switch out. Often times an alarm will sound when the stop is activated.
3. The lift will not operate if any gate and/or door is not completely closed. Make sure that all of the gates and/or doors are closed. The door at the destination landing must be closed and locked. All other doors MUST BE CLOSED AND LOCKED, or the lift will not operate.
4. On an unenclosed lift, ensure that there are no obstructions under the platform. An under-platform safety device is provided on all unenclosed lifts. If the lift is traveling down and encounters an obstruction, it will cease traveling in the down direction. However, the lift will be able to travel up and away from the obstruction. After the obstruction has been removed, the lift will function like normal.
5. Ensure that there is power to the lift.
Call a Professional 
If you have exhausted these remedies and the lift still will not operate a service call will be required. Local elevator service providers usually have a technician on call 24 hours a day, so you always have service available.

Question 54

I have a vacation home which will sit vacant for several months at a time; what can I do to make sure my elevator works properly when I return?

Accepted Answer

In all circumstances, it is advisable to schedule a maintenance visit to ensure your elevator is in peak operating condition prior to use. If you have an electric drive elevator, when closing your home for an extended period, all you have to do is power the elevator down when leaving and re-power upon your return. If you have a hydraulic drive elevator, you have the option to add an exercise timer. The exercise timer will run the elevator up and down on a preset schedule, lubricating the elevator, reducing maintenance expenses.

Question 55

How do I clean my elevator?

Accepted Answer

The type of cleaning agents used to clean residential lifts and elevators is important and should be included in the manufacturer’s operating manual. Here is an overview:


 	Start by dusting all surfaces in the elevator to avoid dirt and dust accumulation.
 	Use furniture cleaning solutions to clean and polish wood panels and accessories.
 	Disinfect the buttons on hall calls, car operating panels, handrails, and gate handles often. When doing this, make sure you use the proper cleaning agent. We explained this further in the blog.
 	Clean mirrored surfaces and glass panels with standard glass cleaners.
 	Vacuum and shampoo carpeting and rugs as you would any high-traffic area.
 	Cleaning the elevator doors is an important part of cleaning your lift. Obstructions in the door can cause performance issues. Clean up any spills or mess around elevator doors promptly, and routinely check that door pathways are clear of debris.

Question 56

How often should a elevator be serviced?

Accepted Answer

To properly maintain you elevator and extend its life, we recommend that our customers have maintenance performed every 6 months as standard.

Question 57

How can I register my warranty?

Accepted Answer

You can register your guarantee using the form on this page.

Question 58

How much does a shaftless home elevator cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost of a shaftless elevator can vary depending on the options and customizable features you choose. On average, a shaftless elevator costs less than other home elevator models because shaftless models are smaller and require far fewer modifications to your home during installation.

Question 59

How can you customize a shaftless home elevator?

Accepted Answer

Your home decor is unique, and you’ll want your shaftless elevator to complement its surroundings, either by blending in or acting as a focal centerpiece in the room. Several aspects of your new elevator can be customized, including the car door, lighting, fixtures, accent panels, and handrails. You can add optional features to the elevator, such as remote control fobs, so you can call the elevator without pressing the control panel buttons. Check out our Ascenda Elevator Brochure to view the options and colors available.
A shaftless elevator provides convenient access to two levels of your home if you have mobility issues while adding visual interest to your home.

Check out the shaftless home elevator options available through Cibes Symmetry, or contact one of our experienced, licensed home elevator dealers to find out which type of home elevator best fits your needs.

Question 60

Are shaftless elevators safe?

Accepted Answer

A shaftless home elevator is exceptionally safe. Sensors on the top and bottom of the elevator car detect any obstructions, halting the elevator automatically if an object is detected. You have full control of the elevator and can stop at any time by releasing the control button.
Like other small elevators for homes, shaftless elevator doors lock into place to ensure the elevator will not move unless the doors are securely shut. A shaftless home elevator comes with additional safety features, such as interior emergency lighting, battery backups that raise or lower the car in the event of a power failure, an onboard telephone, and emergency stop and alarm buttons.

Question 61

How fast does a shaftless elevator travel?

Accepted Answer

Our shaftless elevator travels at thirty feet per minute (fpm), the same speed as the average home elevator.

Question 62

What is the weight capacity rating of a shaftless elevator?

Accepted Answer

Despite their compact nature, shaftless elevators can typically handle 770 lbs. Ideally, you want an elevator with a weight capacity rating that is more than what you need to accommodate any changes as you age in place or as your mobility issues advance.

Question 63

How many floors can you travel with a shaftless elevator?

Accepted Answer

Due to the lack of a hoistway, Symmetry Shaftless Elevators can only travel between two floors. If you need to travel between three or more floors, you should consider a different type of elevator.

Question 64

How big is a shaftless elevator?

Accepted Answer

The average size of an elevator car is 40” x 54” x 84” or 36” x 60 x 84”, plus the hoistway or shaft. A standard-size shaftless elevator, in contrast, has a car size of 27 9/16” x 23 5/8” x 78 11/16”, with no hoistway to take up additional floor space. The car can hold one or two people, with a load capacity of 770 lbs. If you need a slightly larger elevator car, you can increase your shaftless elevator size to 33 7/16” x 49 3/16” x 78 11/16”. The extra space gives people using walkers or transporter chairs more room to maneuver in and out of the car.

Our experts are here to help

Frequently Asked Questions

Accessibility