Elevator Out of Order: Common Causes and Reliable Fixes

An “elevator out of order” sign is more than an inconvenience—it disrupts daily routines, slows business operations, and frustrates tenants. A non-functioning elevator can impact accessibility, safety, and efficiency in commercial buildings, causing delays and reducing tenant satisfaction.

At Southern Elevator, we specialize in keeping commercial elevators running smoothly with expert maintenance and repair services. Understanding why elevators break down and how to prevent unexpected failures can save time, money, and unnecessary stress.

Why is My Elevator Out of Order?

An elevator out of order can result from mechanical wear, electrical failures, control system malfunctions, or improper usage. When just one of these elements fails, the entire system can shut down unexpectedly. Property managers and building owners should understand the most common causes of elevator failures so they can take preventative action before minor problems become major disruptions.

Power Supply Disruptions

Power issues are one of the leading causes of an elevator out of order sign. If an elevator loses power due to an electrical outage, voltage fluctuations, or wiring problems, it may shut down mid-operation.

Buildings that experience frequent power surges or inconsistent voltage put added strain on their elevators. Without a reliable power supply or emergency backup generator, the risk of unexpected shutdowns increases.

How to Reduce Power-Related Elevator Failures:

• Test electrical connections regularly to identify potential faults in wiring.
• Verify a reliable emergency backup power source is available.
• Monitor for power surges or fluctuations that may damage elevator systems.

Mechanical Wear and Tear

Elevators are in constant use, and over time, components such as brakes, cables, pulleys, and bearings wear down. Without regular servicing, these parts can become less efficient or fail completely, resulting in breakdowns.

High-traffic buildings are especially prone to accelerated wear and tear, requiring more frequent maintenance to keep elevators running at their best.

Preventing Mechanical Failures:

• Inspect mechanical components on a scheduled basis.
• Replace worn-out parts before they cause operational failures.
• Lubricate moving parts to reduce unnecessary friction and stress.

Malfunctioning Door Mechanisms

Elevator doors open and close thousands of times a day, making them one of the most active parts of the system. If a door fails to close properly, the elevator’s safety features may prevent movement to avoid potential injuries or entrapment.

Blocked sensors, misaligned doors, or mechanical failures in the door operator system are common reasons for unexpected elevator shutdowns.

Keeping Elevator Doors in Top Condition:

• Regularly clean and inspect door tracks for dirt or obstructions.
• Check sensors and adjust alignment to avoid false errors.
• Train tenants and building occupants to avoid forcing doors open or holding them for long periods.

Control System Failures

Modern elevators rely on advanced control systems to process movement, stops, and safety features. If there is a software glitch, electrical malfunction, or outdated hardware, the elevator may stop responding altogether.

Older control systems are more prone to breakdowns and often lack real-time monitoring features that can detect potential failures before they occur.

Improving Elevator Control System Reliability:

• Perform regular software updates to prevent control errors.
• Inspect control panel wiring and components for signs of damage.
• Upgrade outdated elevator controls to more modern, efficient systems.

Overloading and Misuse

Ignoring weight limits or improperly using an elevator can cause strain on mechanical components and trigger a shutdown. Exceeding weight capacities can overheat motors, stress pulleys, and wear down cables at a much faster rate.

Additionally, misuse—such as jumping in the cabin, pressing multiple buttons unnecessarily, or forcing doors open—can damage sensors and control panels, leading to an elevator out of order situation.

Promoting Proper Elevator Use:

• Post clear weight limit signage in all elevators.
• Educate tenants on safe elevator operation to reduce unnecessary damage.
• Monitor for repeated misuse to identify and address potential issues early.

How to Prevent an Elevator from Going Out of Order

A proactive approach to elevator maintenance minimizes the likelihood of breakdowns, reduces repair costs, and keeps building operations running smoothly.

Routine Maintenance Checks

Regular elevator maintenance helps detect small problems before they cause major failures. Trained technicians perform mechanical, electrical, and software inspections, guaranteeing that every part of the elevator operates correctly.

At Southern Elevator, our preventative maintenance services are designed to reduce unexpected failures and extend the lifespan of commercial elevators.

Upgrading to a Modern Control System

If an elevator is using an outdated control system, it may experience frequent malfunctions or slow response times. Upgrading to modern elevator controls improves:

• Efficiency – Reduces downtime and improves travel speed.
• Reliability – Lowers the risk of unexpected system failures.
• Energy Usage – Helps reduce operational costs with smarter technology.

Keeping Doors and Sensors in Top Condition

Misaligned doors and dirty sensors are among the most common reasons for elevator shutdowns. A routine cleaning and calibration schedule helps prevent unnecessary service interruptions.

Managing Power Stability in the Building

Elevators require a consistent electrical supply to function properly. Buildings that experience frequent voltage drops, surges, or outages should inspect their electrical infrastructure to reduce risks of elevator failures.

What to Do When an Elevator Goes Out of Order

Even with regular maintenance, occasional breakdowns can still happen. Knowing how to respond quickly can minimize downtime and prevent tenant frustration.

1. Secure the Area and Notify Occupants

If an elevator is out of order, post signage immediately and inform building occupants. If passengers are trapped inside, remain calm and contact emergency services.

2. Call a Professional Elevator Repair Provider

Not all repair services are created equal. Choosing an experienced company like Southern Elevator means your elevator is repaired correctly the first time.

3. Schedule a Full Diagnostic Evaluation

Once an elevator out of order situation is resolved, it’s important to check for underlying issues that may have caused the failure. A full diagnostic inspection helps identify potential weaknesses before they cause future problems. Elevator inspections are required to occur at least once a year.

Why Southern Elevator Is the Right Choice

With over 70 years of experience, Southern Elevator is a trusted leader in elevator maintenance and repair across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia.

Our services include:

• Comprehensive maintenance programs to prevent downtime.
• Emergency repair services with quick response times.
• Modernization solutions to upgrade outdated elevator controls.

We work directly with property managers, facility owners, and building engineers to keep elevators running smoothly and safely every day.

Keep Your Elevators Running with Southern Elevator

An elevator out of order creates more than just an inconvenience—it impacts business operations, tenant satisfaction, and accessibility. Investing in routine maintenance, system upgrades, and professional repairs keeps elevators operational, safe, and reliable.

If your building’s elevator is experiencing frequent shutdowns or performance issues, contact Southern Elevator for expert repair, maintenance, and modernization services.