LULA elevators are a space-efficient, cost-effective option to increase accessibility in public spaces like schools, places of worship, municipal buildings, restaurants, small offices, and more. They provide a safe way for people with limited mobility to access all areas of low-rise structures.
LULA elevators travel faster and carry more weight than a wheelchair lift but cost significantly less than conventional commercial elevators.
Understanding LULA Elevators
LULA stands for Limited Use/Limited Application. A LULA elevator has a passenger weight capacity of 1,400 lbs and can only travel up to 25 feet, smaller than standard commercial passenger elevators. Limited Use/Limited Application elevators look like traditional elevators, but their sole purpose is to make a building more accessible for people with limited mobility.
How LULA Elevators Work
LULA elevators offer more features than a wheelchair lift but are smaller and travel shorter distances than traditional commercial passenger elevators. They’re fully automatic, with enclosed cabins and horizontal sliding doors. They can be installed in existing two- or three-story structures or incorporated into design plans for new construction.
Key Features of LULA Elevators
Unlike other commercial elevators, Limited Use/Limited Application elevators must meet the standards set by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) code and the American Disabilities Act (ADA).
These design and performance standards are as follows:
- Maximum vertical travel of 25 ft
- Speed of 30 ft./min
- Car size of 18 sq. ft
- Maximum weight capacity of 1400 lbs
Emergency & Safety Features
LULA elevators are designed to provide safe and reliable transportation for those with restricted mobility.
Here are some major safety features:
- Door sensors that alert passengers if an obstruction is blocking the doorway or prevent the doors from closing if extra time is required for loading or unloading
- Emergency stop button
- Call button for assistance
- Emergency battery-powered or manual lowering system to safely evacuate passengers at the lowest level in case of a power outage
- Emergency lighting in case of power failure
- Hands-free ADA phone
User Features
LULA elevators have the same basic components and safety features, but design details vary by model.
Here are some common features offered by different manufacturers:
- Two-speed, horizontal sliding car doors that open and close automatically
- Floor selection buttons that light up when pressed
- Automatic control
- Key control when needed
- Audio/visual car direction and floor indicators
- Braille markings on the control panel
- Stainless steel handrail
Benefits of Installing a LULA Elevator
When you don’t have the space, budget, or use requirements for a full-sized elevator but need more features than a wheelchair lift can provide, Limited Use/Limited Application elevators are an ideal solution.
Accessibility & Mobility
LULA elevators allow people who use wheelchairs, power chairs, scooters, and other mobility aids to safely navigate multi-story buildings.
Because the specifications of Limited Use/Limited Application elevators are clearly defined by the ADA Act and ASME code, you can be confident that your elevator will be fully compliant with all applicable codes and regulations.
Space & Design Flexibility
LULA elevators take up less space than commercial elevators. The standard floor space in a LULA elevator car is 18 square feet. Actual measurements vary for different models, but typical platform dimensions are 48 inches by 54 inches, 42 inches by 60 inches, or 51 inches by 5 inches for a 90-degree configuration.
Because they travel limited speeds and distances, Limited Use/Limited Application elevators require less machine room space, pit depth, and overhead clearance than other elevators. This makes them an ideal lift for smaller buildings and public spaces.
Long-Term Investment
LULA elevators are an affordable accessibility solution for many construction projects and updates to existing buildings. They are more cost-effective than passenger elevators in terms of initial cost, installation, and long-term maintenance.
Considerations Before Installing a LULA Elevator
There are many different models of Limited Use/Limited Application elevators with different specifications and uses. To find the right one for your property, you should speak to a professional LULA elevator installation company.
What Kind of Buildings Use LULA Elevators?
The accessibility of many low-rise buildings can benefit greatly from the installation of a LULA elevator.
- Schools
- Places of worship
- Municipal buildings like libraries, community centers, and small galleries or museums
- Condominiums, multi-family housing, and small care homes
- Restaurants and pubs
- Boutique hotels, small offices, and retail or medical buildings
Choosing the Right LULA Elevator
When you choose DME Elevators & Lifts for LULA elevator installation, we will help you choose the right layout and options for your space requirements and budget. Our highly trained, in-house technicians provide efficient installation, and we’re always here to provide maintenance and service to keep your elevator serving you and your building occupants for years to come.
Talk to the LULA Elevator Experts at DME Elevators & Lifts
We’ve been helping building owners and homeowners make their spaces more accessible since 1977. We provide LULA elevators, home elevators, and more from only the most reputable manufacturers for dependable, long-lasting operation and peace of mind.
Contact us to discuss your options and get a free quote.
