Stupid question here, but what happens if the power goes out while someone is in the elevator? How often are elevators provided with backup power? I have a three story building that I am providing with some optional standby power, and it just occurred to me that perhaps I should consider putting the elevator on it. We have lost power three times in as many weeks for about 5 hours due to a chronic problem with an underground POCO feeder. Disadvantage is of course the elevator chews through a decent chunk of the generator capacity, and starting could be an issue if the generator is already loaded up. I metered a max of about 80 amps 208 three phase for the elevator, out of 550A of standby capacity.
Talk to the engineer and AHJ. For low rise three story there maybe local codes. Also still low rise IBC or some other codes also might apply.
Some elevators do have enough battery backup to bring it down to X floor and open doors and thats it and some dont.
Be careful if this elevator is part of egress or its part of fire elevator then the battery backup internal would Not be enough and backup power would be needed as elevator would need more trips up and down Not just one down.
Of course depends also where u install elevator other than above scenario more important question u should ask is more than one trip necessary life safety issues, in case of fire etc? If yes then put the gen backup.
Also do u want people in elevator without lights hvac? Elevator cab lights and hvac would go in backup life safety perhaps
Of course i only see this sitting at my desk reviewing plans
Talk to designer and AHJ.
