Why It’s Time to Upgrade Your Elevator Phones from Analog to Cellular

As building infrastructure becomes more connected, one upgrade is gaining attention from facility managers nationwide: modernizing elevator phones.

For decades, elevators relied on analog (POTS) phone lines to connect passengers with help during an emergency. But with telecom providers phasing out analog infrastructure, maintaining these systems is becoming increasingly difficult, costly, and risky.

Why Now Is the Time to Move Away from Analog

Traditional analog elevator phone lines are quickly becoming obsolete. Many telecom providers no longer service them, leaving property owners vulnerable to:

• No guaranteed emergency connection

• Increased monthly phone costs

• Potential code violations and legal risks

• Slower emergency response for trapped passengers

If your elevator phone still relies on a POTS landline, it may not meet current elevator safety code requirements — and that’s a serious liability concern.

Modern Cellular Elevator Phone Solutions

Cellular elevator phone systems offer reliable, code-compliant alternatives to aging copper lines. Depending on your building’s needs and market, Metro Elevator can coordinate upgrades in one of two ways:

1. Partnership Providers 

   1. In some regions, we work with trusted partners who handle installation, monitoring, and compliance.

2. Direct Installation 

   1. In other markets, our technicians can install cellular solutions directly.

Key Benefits of Cellular Elevator Phone Systems

Reliable Connectivity

These phones use wireless networks, so you’re not dependent on aging copper phone lines that may no longer be maintained.

Cost-Effective

You can eliminate monthly landline bills. Many cellular plans designed for elevator use are more affordable than traditional phone service.

Code-Compliant

Cellular units can be configured to meet national and local safety codes, including ASME A17.1 and ADA requirements.

Easy to Monitor and Maintain

Modern systems often include remote monitoring features and battery backups to ensure they work even during power outages.

Where We’re Seeing Demand

From Waco, Texas, to Virginia and beyond, building owners are recognizing the challenges of keeping analog systems functional. Whether through a partnership or in-house installation, requests for upgrades are rising in multifamily properties, medical facilities, and commercial buildings.

What to Expect During the Upgrade Process

While specifics vary depending on your region and provider, most upgrades include:

1. Site Assessment

   • Evaluate your current system, confirm signal strength, and review building layout.

2. Installation

   • Install the cellular communicator or gateway and connect it to your elevator’s phone system.

3. Testing and Verification

   • Run full compliance and function tests.

4. Support and Monitoring

   • Ongoing monitoring and maintenance options are available.

Your Path to a Safer, More Reliable Elevator Phone 

Whether your building is best served by a partner solution or a Metro-installed system, we’ll guide you through the process to ensure safety, compliance, and cost-effectiveness.

If you’re unsure whether your elevator phones are still code-compliant — or ready to make the switch to a modern, reliable system — contact your local Metro Elevator Division for a free on-site assessment. We’ll review your options, explain pricing, and help you make a safe, smart upgrade.

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Jared Hagaman is the Vice President of Field Operations for Metro Elevator Waco, bringing over a decade of elevator industry experience to his role. Learn more about Jared and the team.