Elevator Communications

Elevator POTS Line Replacement

Replace retiring copper elevator telephone lines with voice-capable cellular connectivity that meets ASME A17.1 requirements — with full-duplex voice, DTMF support, E911 location, battery backup, and ongoing monitoring.

Why Elevators Used POTS Lines

Elevator codes (ASME A17.1 and state equivalents) require a two-way communication device in every elevator cab that connects to a monitored location. For decades, this requirement was met with a standard telephone line — a POTS line — because it provided reliable, always-on voice communication with a dedicated phone number.

As carriers retire copper infrastructure, those elevator phone lines are being discontinued. Without a phone line, the elevator is not code-compliant and may not be legally operable. Building owners and property managers need a replacement that provides the same voice communication without depending on copper.

How Cellular Elevator Phone Replacement Works

A voice-capable cellular device is installed at or near the elevator. It provides a dial tone to the existing elevator phone, supports full-duplex voice calls, and routes calls to the monitoring service or emergency dispatcher over a cellular network. The elevator phone itself does not change — only the underlying telephone line is replaced.

Full-Duplex Voice

Both parties can speak and listen simultaneously, just like a normal phone call. This is required for elevator communication.

DTMF Support

DTMF tones used by elevator phone systems for auto-dialing and programming are passed through transparently.

E911 Location

Location information is programmed so emergency dispatchers receive the correct building and elevator address.

Battery Backup

The device includes battery backup to maintain communication during power outages, as required by elevator codes.

Carrier Connectivity

Cellular service with carrier options evaluated for coverage at each elevator location.

Elevator Technician Coordination

We coordinate with licensed elevator contractors when the cab phone itself needs service.

Installation Process & Ongoing Management

Installation

  1. 1Site assessment to inventory elevator phone lines
  2. 2Carrier coverage evaluation at each location
  3. 3Installation of voice-capable cellular device
  4. 4Testing of call quality, DTMF, and emergency calling
  5. 5E911 location programming and verification

Ongoing Management

Red Tag Lines managed service provides ongoing monitoring after installation:

  • Cellular connectivity monitoring
  • Battery health alerts
  • Call activity reporting
  • Proactive issue resolution
  • Compliance documentation

Frequently Asked Questions

Replace an Elevator Phone Line

Tell us about your elevator phone lines and we'll build a compliant replacement plan. A specialist will respond within one business day.

(877) 262-6539

Replace an Elevator Phone Line

Tell us about your elevator lines and we'll build a replacement plan.

Our team will review your request and follow up promptly.