Elevate Your Skills with the 2026 Lift-Off: NEIEP Intro to Elevators & Basic Electricity Practice Exam!

A pneumatic elevator is defined by its mechanism of using air pressure to move the elevator car. This system functions by creating a difference in air pressure between the inside and outside of a cylindrical shaft, allowing the car to ascend or descend smoothly. When the air pressure inside the shaft is reduced, the higher pressure outside pushes the car upward. Conversely, when air is let back into the shaft, the car can descend.

This method of operation offers several advantages, including a quieter ride and a compact design, which makes pneumatic elevators suitable for residential and small commercial applications where traditional elevator systems may not fit or be feasible. The technology embodies a unique approach that distinguishes it from other types of elevators, which rely more heavily on mechanical components, electricity, or counterweights.