According to GB/T 21739 – 2008 "Specification for the Manufacturing and Installation of Home Elevators," a Home lift refers to an elevator installed in a private residential building, exclusively for the use of a single family member. It can also be installed in buildings not exclusively used by a single family, serving as a tool for a single family to access their residence; however, the public or other occupants within the building are unable to enter or use it.

Home Elevator Standards

China issued the GB/T 21739-2008 standard "Specification for the Manufacturing and Installation of Home Elevators" in 2008. The specification includes numerous detailed provisions for home elevators. However, considering it is for domestic use, this standard is recommended rather than mandatory.

Home Elevator vs. Passenger Elevator Comparison Table:

1. Initially, consider its application fields. Ordinary elevators are widely used in various settings, from urban skyscrapers to airports and train stations, as well as in shopping malls, office buildings, and residential complexes. Residential elevators, on the other hand, are typically installed in private villas for domestic use.

2. The rated load and rated speed, among other key parameters, vary. Generally, the speed range of commercial elevators is quite extensive, from cargo elevators at speeds of 0.25m/s, 0.5m/s, and so on, up to high-speed elevators exceeding 10m/s; whereas residential elevators typically do not exceed 1m/s. The rated load also differs, with commercial elevators ranging from 500kg to 5000kg, while residential elevators usually do not exceed 500kg.

The manufacturing standards differ; standard elevators adhere to the mandatory national standard GB7588 "Safety Code for the Manufacturing and Installation of Elevators," which must be strictly followed during manufacturing and installation. In contrast, residential elevators can be installed and used according to the recommended national standard GB/T 21739-2008 "Code for the Manufacturing and Installation of Residential Elevators."

4. From a regulatory standpoint, standard elevators are classified as special equipment under the "Special Equipment Safety Law of the People's Republic of China," and must be produced (manufactured, installed, and maintained) in accordance with various standards and regulations. They are also required to undergo statutory inspections (acceptance and regular inspections). However, residential elevators are not subject to these requirements; they can be bought and sold like common household appliances and do not need to be regulated.