The leading food lift and dumbwaiter
Often referred to as kitchen lifts, these little service lifts are ideal for various uses. From food lifts in commercial catering, kitchens, pubs, clubs, restaurants and hotels to dumbwaiters for medical centres, offices and industrial applications, they're an invaluable necessity for moving items floor to floor.
Stannah is the market leader. We've been installing commercial dumbwaiters for more than 50 years. Our comprehensive product range ensures you receive the best advice and the perfect product within your budget and with that special Stannah ingredient—personal service.
The Stannah Microlift comes in a wide range of dumbwaiter dimensions, including four 50kg and two 100 kg load capacities available off the shelf for quick installation and turnaround. We can also supply a wide variety of bespoke sizes.
The high-quality drive system ensures low electrical consumption and smooth operation even after years of use. Plus, all our dumb waiters meet the essential safety requirements (ESRs) of the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 and EN81-3 where applicable.
If you’re unsure of the best option for your building, we can arrange a free site survey to discuss your requirements.
Our Microlift range at a glance
Standard
The popular choice for waist-height loading
Double-decker
Two separate lift cars working in tandem within the same shaft
Floor-level loading
Floor level access for small trolleys
Bottom drive
For low headroom applications
| Model (50 & 100kg) | Door types | Speed (m/s) | Travel | Headroom (mm) | Pit depth (mm) | Power supply | Car entrances |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Shutter / Hinged | 0.35 | 12 stops / 30m | 2600-3000 | N/A | 415V three-phase** | Single / Through /Adjacent |
| Double-decker | Shutter / Hinged | 3000 | 350* | ||||
| Floor level loading | Hinged | 1800-2200 | |||||
| Bottom drive | Shutter / Hinged | 2250 | N/A |
Features and benefits
Reduces manual handling hazards
Installing a Stannah Microlift is a cost-effective way to reduce the risk of injury associated with manual handling and improve operational efficiency.
Flexible dumbwaiter design
We offer a wide range of dumb waiter dimensions and configurations. Our 50kg Microlifts are an invaluable aid in smaller commercial settings, such as a busy cafe or small restaurant. Our 100kg models are perfect for large restaurants, hotels, and industrial settings.
Reliable performance
We’ve installed over 22,000 Microlifts in the last 50 years. Many of the first are still going strong, showing we supply a reliable and hard-wearing product backed up with regular service visits and 24/7 repair to ensure long life.
Support every step of the way
With over 150 years of experience, Stannah is one of the UK's leading dumbwaiter companies. From start to finish our dedicated team will be beside you. Once in service, your Microlift can be maintained in tip-top condition day in, day out, by our local service engineers.
Design & Planning
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Dumbwaiter dwg, technical data and NBS specifications are easily downloaded from our technical area
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Grey baked enamel RAL7038 or stainless finish and choice of additional options, including heated shelf
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Free site survey to find the perfect dumbwaiter design for your building
Installation
- Working with your builder, we'll help ensure a smooth dumbwaiter installation, providing exact builders' work requirements and visiting the site for pre-start checks
- Installation takes just 1-2 days for a two-floor lift, working in hours that suit you
- Safety, quality and reliability you can trust
Operation
- Twelve-month warranty & servicing included, including 24/7 emergency callout
- Highly trained Stannah lift engineers through our network of service branches take care of your lift
- As a leading dumbwaiter manufacturer and supplier, we have excellent UK spare parts availability
How can we help you?
Frequently asked questions
What is a dumbwaiter?
A dumbwaiter is a type of service lift, also known as a lazy waiter, food lift or restaurant dumbwaiter, often used to carry and transport food and drinks in hospitality venues such as bars, restaurants and domestic kitchens.
Why do they call it a dumbwaiter?
Manual dumbwaiters were first used in large houses with kitchens and household staff in the basements or servant's quarters. The servants used the lift to move food from the kitchen to the dining room. The term's origins simply mean the lift was a way of having a 'silent' servant, not heard or seen.
What's a typical dumbwaiter size?
Dumbwaiter lifts are typically compact, so you'll be surprised at the small space needed. Our most popular dumbwaiter size is a 50kg standard model. It's compact, and waist-height loading makes it perfect for moving smaller goods between floors. We can conduct a survey to guide you through your choice and discuss how to overcome any site challenges.
Are there different dumbwaiter dimensions?
They come in a wide range of sizes and weight capacities, including four 50kg and two 100kg models, offering a wide choice of sizes ‘off the shelf’. Low headroom and bottom drive models significantly reduce headroom, and we can provide niche dumbwaiters to suit specific spaces.
How much does a commercial dumbwaiter cost?
Dumbwaiter prices start at £7,000 and vary depending on travel, number of stops, configuration, and additional options and finishes. Plus, all our models include 12-month servicing and 24/7 emergency cover. You’ll need to factor in any building works in addition to the dumbwaiter installation cost.
Do you supply outdoor dumbwaiters?
To install an exterior dumbwaiter, a fully pre-built outdoor shaft is required to protect it from the elements.
How long does it take to install a dumbwaiter?
Most dumbwaiter installations for a two-floor service lift are completed in one to two days, and then our engineers return for a second visit to commission the lift.
What is the maximum capacity of a dumb waiter?
Our larger 100kg industrial dumbwaiter suits high-traffic environments such as large restaurants, hotels, and industrial settings such as factories and warehouses.
Do you have used dumbwaiters for sale?
We don’t sell second-hand dumbwaiters. As these little workhorses are well-used as such, we’d always recommend choosing a new product as it will be energy efficient, have new parts and will include warranty and servicing.
Can a dumbwaiter carry people?
No. Absolutely not. These little lifts are designed to carry goods only.
