Hydraulic elevators feature a piston at the bottom of the elevator that uses oil or other hydraulic fluid to control the lift or descent of the elevator. Hydraulic elevators are typically used for low-rise applications of 2-8 stories and can travel at a maximum speed of about 200 feet per minute. The machine room for hydraulic elevators is typically located at the lowest level adjacent to the elevator shaft.
Hydraulic elevators typically have a lower initial cost, and lower ongoing maintenance costs than other elevator types, but use more energy and can be susceptible to hydraulic fluid leaks, a potential environmental hazard. For these reasons, hydraulic elevators are not installed as often as in the past.