Ask yourself the following:
Type of building: Residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional?
Number of floors: How many stops will the elevator need to make?
Estimated traffic: How many people will use the elevator daily?
Space availability: Do you have a shaft already? Any space constraints?
Best for: Low-rise buildings (2–6 floors)
Pros: Cheaper, smooth ride
Cons: Slower speed, requires machine room, uses oil (can leak)
Best for: Mid to high-rise buildings
Pros: Faster, energy-efficient, no oil
Cons: Higher cost, may require overhead room
🔹 Geared Traction – Older model, with gearbox
🔹 Gearless Traction – Modern, efficient, faster, quieter, best for high rises
Best for: Buildings where space is limited
Pros: No machine room, energy-efficient
Cons: Costlier than hydraulic, maintenance and repair costs can be much higher.
Best for: Homes or low-rise structures (1–3 stops)
Pros: Sleek design, minimal footprint, no pit or machine room
Cons: Low weight capacity, slow, high initial cost
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Weight capacity | Depends on usage (e.g., 1000 kg for freight) |
| Speed | Residential: ~0.5 m/s; Commercial: up to 2.5 m/s |
| Size / Car dimensions | Matches building code + user needs |
| Door type | Manual, automatic, center-opening, single/ two speed doors |
| Safety features | Emergency brakes, power backup, alarm system, communication failure alerts |
| Accessibility | Braille buttons, audio, wide doors, handrails |
| Interior finish | Stainless steel, glass, wood, custom decor |
| Brand | Specialty | Strengths | Common Applications | Integration Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smartrise Engineering | Controllers | – Modern technology – Easy plug-and-play install – Remote diagnostics (SRU) – Flexible with many elevator types | Residential, commercial, MRL, traction & hydraulic | Highly compatible with major drives (Yaskawa, Magnetek, etc.) | Very popular among independent elevator contractors |
| Alpha Elevator Components | Controllers & fixtures | – Budget-friendly – Durable controllers – Good for low-rise buildings | Residential, small commercial | Compatible with many conventional systems | Often used in retrofit or basic new installs |
| ESI (Elevator Systems, Inc.) | Engineered for simplicity and durability | – Known for pre-engineered packages – Simplified installation – Controllers + fixtures + motors available | Residential, commercial (Low to mid-rise) | Works best within its own ecosystem (bundled systems) | Streamlined support and board compatibility between hydro and tractions |
| MCE (Motion Control Engineering) | Controllers & modernization solutions | – Highly reliable – Used in modernization and new installs – Customizable solutions | High-rise, modernization projects, heavy-use environments | Compatible with wide array of motors, drives, and dispatch systems | Considered an industry leader in controller tech |
| GAL (GAL Manufacturing) | Door systems, controllers (via GAL/Columbia), fixtures | – Heavy-duty mechanical parts – Great for modernization – Durable door equipment – Intelligent door controllers | Commercial, institutional (Often retrofit markets) | Interfaces well with other controllers | The number on pick for door equipment |
Best Pick: Smartrise or MCE
Smartrise for cutting-edge diagnostics and support
MCE for long-term reliability and integration flexibility
Best Pick: Alpha or ESI
Alpha for budget-conscious, basic use
ESI for pre-configured simplicity
Best Pick: GAL + MCE
GAL for doors, fixtures, MCE for controllers
Proven track record in modernizing older elevators
Can your controllers be remotely monitored (IoT support)?
Do you offer diagnostic tools/apps?
What’s the average lead time for parts and service?
Can I integrate your system with [Brand X] motors or door operators?
We’re not a national chain with rotating technicians and layers of customer service. We’re a Texas-based company that values long-term client relationships, detailed workmanship, and clear accountability. When you work with us, you know who’s showing up and why.
Whether you’re starting fresh or upgrading an existing system, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation. No pressure, just smart solutions.
📍 Proudly serving commercial and industrial properties across Texas.
Call Boyer Elevator at (979) 221-1401 or contact us by this form to schedule a site visit.
We’re not a national chain with rotating technicians and layers of customer service. We’re a Texas-based company that values long-term client relationships, detailed workmanship, and clear accountability. When you work with us, you know who’s showing up and why.
Call Boyer Elevator at (979) 221-1401 or contact us by this form to schedule a site visit.
