Dumbwaiters aren’t as expensive as they used to be, but installing one of these handy cargo lifts is not a lightweight weekend project by any means. Installing a dumbwaiter is a significant home improvement – it takes some time and research to plan, but the results are well worth the effort. This quick guide will help you plan for a new dumbwaiter that fits your budget.
Upfront Costs to Consider
The most expensive part of any dumbwaiter is the installation. This task requires skill and very specialized training, and sometimes the professionals have to take extra time to receive manufacturer approval and trade certifications. Knowledge of local building and fire codes is required. Dumbwaiter installation professionals charge rates that reflect their expertise.
There are always ways to reduce the amount of time that your installation team will need to work. Take care of any minor site preparation ahead of time. Cut the installation time in half by investing in a dumbwaiter with an integrated drive system, pre-mounted on a section of track. Plug-n-play wiring is also very efficient. If you’re interested in the “easy install” options, you can buy dumbwaiters here – simply follow the link to USMedicalSupplies to access the brochure and installation guide for more information.
Many dumbwaiter manufacturers are happy to provide instructions for self-installation but a professional installation is well worth the investment. Save money by going with a professional team that can do the job quickly and efficiently. Independent contractors might be cheaper upfront, but a bad installation job is costly to fix.
Calculating the Cost of Ownership
The owner’s manual is sure to detail what type of maintenance the dumbwaiter will need, like periodic lubrication of the track, yearly dusting, and general preventative cleaning. Try to avoid installing a dumbwaiter that requires too much maintenance unless you have a good contract with an elevator technician qualified to service your particular cargo lift brand.
The best way to reduce the cost of ownership is to invest in a model with a strong warranty and a solid service agreement. Make sure that the model is still popular with the manufacturer to ensure a steady supply of replacement parts.
Finding the Right Provider
The right manufacturer or retailer can make all the difference – the source of your dumbwaiter will influence everything from the cost of installation to the cost of ownership. A dumbwaiter is only as good as the company that sold it to you! Make sure to buy from a retailer or manufacturer that answers your questions and assists with troubleshooting. Those guarantees we mentioned earlier are always a good indication of a provider that stands by their product.
Always have a chat with the customer service team before buying a dumbwaiter. Let them know about your location constraints, your equipment needs, and your budget. Ask questions even if you already know the answers. A reliable dumbwaiter provider will give you all the guidance you could ask for. If you encounter a company with bad customer service, move onto the next provider. Customer care should be the top priority of every dumbwaiter retailer and manufacturer. Hold your installation contractors to the same high standards.
Are you tired of carrying groceries, laundry, or firewood up and down the stairs each day? In terms of effort saved during chores, a dumbwaiter will pay for itself in no time at all. In terms of actual cost to install and own, we hope this guide will come in handy.
Author BIO
Natalie Sage is a freelance article writer that blog contributor! Natalie focuses on medical, health and self-development related topics to help keep everyone focused on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.