LIFT INSIGHTS

Hydraulic vs. Pneumatic Elevators: Which One is Right for Your Building in Ghana?

by | Jun 30, 2025 | Blog

When it comes to choosing the right elevator for your building in Ghana, the decision often narrows down to two popular types: hydraulic elevators and pneumatic elevators. Each offers unique benefits, performance features, and design compatibility depending on your needs—whether for residential, commercial, or industrial spaces.

As a trusted elevator company in Ghana, PE Lifts is committed to helping you make informed decisions that balance performance, aesthetics, and budget. In this blog post, we’ll compare hydraulic and pneumatic elevators, breaking down their features, advantages, and the best use cases in the Ghanaian market.


🚀 What Are Hydraulic Elevators?

Hydraulic elevators operate using a hydraulic cylinder filled with fluid that pushes the elevator cab upwards. These systems are powered by a motor-driven pump, making them ideal for low- to mid-rise buildings (2–6 floors).

Benefits of Hydraulic Elevators

  • Strong lifting capacity — perfect for heavy loads
  • Cost-effective installation
  • Easy to maintain and repair
  • Flexible for indoor and outdoor use

📍Best for:

  • Apartments in Accra or Kumasi
  • Hospitals, warehouses, and schools
  • Buildings with limited shaft space

🌬️ What Are Pneumatic Elevators?

Pneumatic elevators (also known as vacuum elevators) use air pressure to raise and lower the cab inside a vertical tube. These lifts are sleek, eco-friendly, and require no pit, machine room, or pulley system.

Benefits of Pneumatic Elevators

  • Stylish, panoramic design — ideal for modern homes
  • Minimal civil work — no shaft or pit needed
  • Energy-efficient — consumes less power
  • Fast and quiet operation

📍Best for:

  • Private homes in East Legon, Tema, or Takoradi
  • Duplex or triplex villas
  • Renovations and retrofits

⚖️ Hydraulic vs. Pneumatic Elevators: Quick Comparison

FeatureHydraulic ElevatorPneumatic Elevator
Installation Time2–4 weeks1–2 weeks
Power SourceOil-based hydraulic pumpAir pressure
Shaft RequirementsRequiredNot required
Energy UseModerate to highLow
Load CapacityHighModerate
Noise LevelModerateLow
Best forCommercial use & freightResidential & luxury homes

🛠️ Cost of Elevator Installation in Ghana

The cost of installing a hydraulic elevator in Ghana typically ranges from ₵160,000 to ₵300,000, depending on size and load capacity. Meanwhile, pneumatic elevators cost between ₵200,000 to ₵400,000, reflecting their modern technology and design appeal.

For accurate pricing, PE Lifts Ghana offers free on-site consultations and quotes to suit your project budget.


🏗️ Lift Installation by PE Lifts Ghana

Whether you’re in Accra, Kumasi, Cape Coast, or Takoradi, PE Lifts provides professional lift installation services, ensuring your elevator system complies with international safety standards and Ghana’s local building regulations.

As a top-rated elevator company in Ghana, we supply:

  • Hydraulic elevators
  • Pneumatic elevators
  • Home lifts
  • Passenger lifts
  • Custom lift solutions for residential and commercial buildings

💡 Which Elevator Is Right for Your Building?

Here’s a simple guide:

  • ✅ Choose hydraulic elevators if you need robust performance for multi-floor buildings, hospitals, or commercial properties.
  • ✅ Choose pneumatic elevators if you want style, energy efficiency, and minimal space requirements for your private home.

📞 Need Expert Advice? Contact PE Lifts Ghana Today!

Choosing the right lift doesn’t have to be difficult. At PE Lifts, we offer tailored solutions based on your building type, budget, and design preference. Whether you’re looking to install a hydraulic elevator in a commercial property or a pneumatic lift in your luxury home, we’re here to help.

👉 Call or WhatsApp PE Lifts Ghana now +233 59 713 9227