Elevators are one of the most relied-upon systems in any building—and also one of the most overlooked. When they run smoothly, they’re invisible. But when they break down? Tenants get frustrated, building managers scramble, and repair costs pile up fast.
Regular elevator maintenance isn’t just about fixing things when they go wrong. It’s about keeping everything working right in the first place. Preventive care helps extend equipment life, reduce costly breakdowns, and ensure passenger safety.
At Murphy Elevator Company, we’ve been helping buildings stay in motion since 1932. Here’s what we’ve learned about why proactive maintenance is the smartest investment a property owner can make.
1. Safety First: Maintenance Prevents Accidents Before They Happen
Routine maintenance is essential for keeping elevators safe and dependable. Every elevator is a complex system of cables, motors, doors, brakes, and digital components—all of which need attention to operate reliably.
By inspecting and maintaining these systems regularly, trained technicians can identify and fix potential hazards before they become real risks. Think worn cables, unbalanced doors, or outdated control systems. Left unchecked, these can lead to serious safety concerns or even system failure.
Murphy’s certified technicians are on call 24/7, ready to keep buildings across the Midwest running safely. We use automated inspection checklists, digital tracking tools, and condition monitoring to stay ahead of problems—because staying ahead is what safety is all about.
2. Longer Lifespan = Smarter Spending
Like any major piece of machinery, elevators perform better and last longer when they’re well maintained. Lubricating moving parts, checking alignment, and updating worn components can add years to your elevator’s lifespan.
Without regular upkeep, small problems can wear down key components like pulleys, motors, and rails. That leads to bigger mechanical failures down the road—and potentially early replacement, which is a serious expense.
Predictive maintenance technologies use real-time data to assess performance and catch wear-and-tear early. Over time, these smart systems help reduce long-term costs and ensure better ROI on your equipment.
3. Fewer Breakdowns, Lower Repair Costs
It’s not just about how long your elevator lasts—it’s also about how often it breaks down.
Every time your elevator is out of service, it affects tenants, visitors, and your building’s reputation. Emergency repairs are not only inconvenient—they’re also more expensive. That’s why preventive maintenance is a game changer.
Regular inspections allow technicians to fix minor issues before they turn into major outages. That means more uptime, less disruption, and fewer “Out of Order” signs.
Murphy Elevator’s 24-hour response team ensures fast service whenever it’s needed, across all brands and models. Our regional coverage means property managers get the support they need, fast—so service interruptions stay short and costs stay manageable.
4. Maintenance Best Practices Every Building Should Follow
Preventive elevator maintenance isn’t a one-size-fits-all task. To do it right, your provider should follow consistent protocols and tailor them to your specific equipment. Here’s what an effective plan includes:
Scheduled Inspections & Cleaning
Regular inspections help spot problems early. Technicians check cables, control panels, brakes, and more, ensuring all components are in working order.
Cleaning also plays a role in function and perception. A clean elevator cab reflects well on your property and improves the rider experience.
Keeping detailed inspection logs helps with long-term planning and budgeting, so nothing gets missed or delayed.
Lubrication & Alignment
Friction is the enemy of any mechanical system. Proper lubrication keeps components moving smoothly and prevents premature wear. Misaligned parts, meanwhile, can strain motors and gears, reducing efficiency and lifespan.
Routine checks for both lubrication and alignment are essential—and best handled by experienced technicians who know the unique demands of elevator systems.
5. Smarter Maintenance with Technology
Technology has changed the game for elevator maintenance. Today’s systems can use diagnostics, sensors, and real-time data to keep tabs on performance and catch problems before they happen.
Diagnostic Tools
Digital diagnostic tools provide valuable insight into how elevators are running—from speed and cycle counts to temperature spikes and unusual activity. This data helps technicians make smarter decisions, reduce guesswork, and get ahead of wear and tear.
Predictive Maintenance
Smart elevator systems equipped with IoT sensors continuously monitor equipment conditions. These systems analyze data over time to predict when components will need service—before they fail.
That means fewer breakdowns, smoother rides, and better reliability for everyone who uses the elevator. For building managers, it’s an easy way to stay proactive and keep everything on track.
6. Choosing the Right Elevator Maintenance Partner
The quality of your elevator maintenance depends on the team behind it. Here’s what to look for in a provider:
Certified, Experienced Technicians
Elevator systems are highly technical, and safety regulations are strict. Make sure your provider’s technicians are licensed, certified, and trained in both legacy and modern systems. Experience matters—especially when it comes to spotting early warning signs that a less-trained tech might miss.
At Murphy Elevator, our team has decades of combined experience working on all types of elevators and escalators, across all industries.
Customized Maintenance Plans
Every elevator is different—so your maintenance plan should be too. Look for a provider that offers flexible service plans tailored to your building’s equipment, usage levels, and needs.
Murphy Elevator offers customizable maintenance programs and fast response times across several Midwest states. Whether your elevator is brand new or pushing 30 years, we’ll help you build a plan that works.
Keep Your Building Moving—Partner with Murphy Elevator
Don’t wait for problems to slow you down. Trust the experts at Murphy Elevator for reliable, 24/7 elevator maintenance across the Midwest. Whether you manage a single property or a portfolio, we’ll tailor a service plan that fits your needs and keeps your elevators running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is regular elevator maintenance important for longevity?
It helps catch small issues before they become major repairs, extends the life of your equipment, and reduces long-term costs.
2. How does maintenance improve elevator safety?
Routine inspections can uncover worn parts or electrical issues that could cause accidents if left unresolved.
3. What are warning signs that an elevator needs immediate attention?
Strange noises, sudden jerks, slow doors, or uneven stops are all signs that something’s wrong and should be checked right away.
4. Can regular maintenance really save money over time?
Yes. Preventive care reduces emergency calls and extends your elevator’s lifespan, which means fewer replacements and less downtime.
Travis graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Entrepreneurship before joining Murphy Elevator as an accounts receivable associate. Since then, Travis has worked as an Estimator and Marketing Director before ascending to the role of VP of Administration in 2006. He also serves as our Safety Director, and leads IT and accounts receivable.
Travis graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Entrepreneurship before joining Murphy Elevator as an accounts receivable associate. Since then, Travis has worked as an Estimator and Marketing Director before ascending to the role of VP of Administration in 2006. He also serves as our Safety Director, and leads IT and accounts receivable.