A guide for building owners and property managers 
 
Choosing an elevator for your building is a lifelong investment. In today's market, the two dominant technologies - hydraulic elevators and traction elevators - continue to evolve, offering high levels of safety, comfort and energy efficiency. 
 
Whether you are building a new maisonette, renovating your apartment building or upgrading your commercial property, one question remains the same:  
 
"Should I choose a hydraulic or a traction elevator?"  
 
If you are starting your search, the answer lies in selecting the technology that best matches your building's requirements and your long-term priorities. 
 
You are looking for quiet operation and space efficiency in your home  
You need an elevator for a maisonette or a low-rise apartment building. Quiet operation is important to you, and you want to make the most of the available space, without requiring a separate machine room. 
 
The answer 
A hydraulic lift may be well suited to your needs. Operating through a hydraulic power unit and piston system, it delivers exceptionally smooth and quiet ride from floor to floor. 
 
The key advantages of the hydraulic lift include: 

• The power unit can be installed in a compact cabinet located virtually anywhere within the building, including the basement.  
• Emergency evacuation: In the event of a power outage, the descent is carried out with a controlled lowering through the hydraulic system, enhancing passenger safety and peace of mind.  

The KLEEMANN solution 
Systems such as the Maison lifts are specifically designed for buildings with limited pit depth or restricted headroom height. They provide an affordable and practical home mobility solution combining comfort, performance, and a wide range of design options.  
 
These elevators are particularly suitable for modernization projects and existing buildings, where elevator installation was not originally considered during construction. 
 
You are looking for speed, durability and energy efficiency in your apartment building 
You need a solution that will serve a multi-storey building with intense daily traffic. You want an elevator that moves quickly, withstands continuous use and helps keep electricity bills as low as possible. 
 
The answer 
Modern traction elevators work using an electric motor, ropes and a counterweight system, enabling faster operation and efficient service across greater ride distances and higher buildings. 
 
The key advantages of the traction lift include: 

• High energy efficiency, particularly when equipped with technologies such as VVVF inverter and featuring a regenerative drive system. 
• At the same time, MRL - ​​Machine Room-less - technology allows installation without a traditional machine room above the shaft, helping optimize available building space. 

The KLEEMANN solution 
City series, the next generation of MRL elevators, combines outstanding energy performance, advanced VVVF inverter technology and contemporary design that enhances the value of the entire property. 
 
You are looking for the ideal elevator solution for your business 
You manage a commercial property of small or large scale. The nature of your business activity and the role your building plays in the customer experience define your priorities.  
 
Whether hydraulic or traction, an elevator can become a strategic asset that supports the pace of your building's operation. 
 
Traction elevators are known for: 

• High energy efficiency 
• Smooth and quiet operation 
• Long ride capability for mid-rise and high-rise buildings 
• Excellent performance in buildings with increased passenger traffic 
• Integration of advanced technologies, such as VVVF inverter 

Hydraulic elevators are known for: 

• Smooth and stable ride quality 
• Low noise levels during operation 
• Installation flexibility, especially in existing buildings 
• The possibility of locating the power unit in different areas of the building 
• Adaptability to projects with limitations or structural constraints 

The KLEEMANN solution 
Whether you operate a boutique hotel, a busy shopping centre or a modern office building, KLEEMANN's expertise and comprehensive product range provide three fundamental advantages: 
 
Uncompromising safety 
All KLEEMANN elevators incorporate the most stringent international safety standards certifications and advanced emergency operation and rescue systems, ensuring peace of mind for passengers and building owners alike. 
 
Superior aesthetics & design 
At KLEEMANN, an elevator is much more than a moving box. It is a means of transportation and an integral part of a building's architectural identity. A wide range of cabin designs, finishes, materials and lighting options allows architects, developers and owners to create an elevator experience that complements the overall character of the building. 
 
Reliability and technical support 
Choosing a KLEEMANN elevator means partnering with a globally recognized brand backed by strong local presence and support. This ensures access to spare parts, technical expertise and dedicated service teams throughout the lifecycle of your elevator installation. 
 
Always one step ahead 
The KLEEMANN team can support you throughout the evaluation and selection process, helping identify the solution that best meets the technical, operational and architectural requirements of your project. Contact us.