How to Use a Dumbwaiter

A dumbwaiter is essentially a small elevator. It can save tremendous time and effort by transporting items floor to floor in multilevel homes. Most can accommodate loads up to 150 lbs and some non-commercial models can go as high as 750 lbs. Whether you need to move meals, mail, books or laundry between floors, learning to use a dumbwaiter can make chores a breeze.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Determine weight restrictions. There should be an ID plate on the dumbwaiter with weight limitations listed. You must not go over the manufacturer's instructions for safe payload or you can damage the dumbwaiter.
2. Open the access door. Assess whether the dumbwaiter has hand-pull or mechanized operation. Most modern units simply have a button on the wall beside them that 'calls' or 'sends' the unit from floor to floor. If there is no such button, look for a pulley cable, rope or chain within the access panel.
3. Bring the dumbwaiter to your current floor. If the dumbwaiter is not located on the correct floor, push the call button or utilize the pulley system to bring it to your location.
4. Place the items you intend to move within the confines of the dumbwaiter car. Keep them away from the edge of the car.
5. Close the interior safety door if your model has one. If your model is a manual system, smoothly pull the cable, rope or chain until the dumbwaiter reaches the intended floor. Do not yank or pull forcefully, this can tip your items over. If you have a mechanized model, simply close the main access door and push the send button.
6. Walk to the other floor and retrieve the items from the dumbwaiter.

Tips & Warnings

• When moving liquids, be certain they're not in an open, top-heavy container. Fully sealed containers such as thermoses are best for liquid transport. Spills in the car (and possibly down the shaft) can be a difficult mess to clean.
• If you choose to use a dumbwaiter to move laundry, unpleasant odors can result inside the car. Be aware of this possibility before planning to use the same dumbwaiter to move food items and dirty clothing.
• Manual dumbwaiter units are rare; usually found in restored Victorian era homes. Never pull on cables, ropes or chains on modern units.

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