FloodGuard™ for Elevators

ECI America combines advanced engineering with user-driven insights with new flood protection product. 

submitted by ECI America

With 2022 updates to ASME A17.1 code, the demand for reliable flood protection devices in elevator systems has grown significantly. These new code requirements emphasize early detection and rapid response — both essential for ensuring the safety of passengers and preventing water intrusion damage. Headquartered in Cape Canaveral, Florida, ECI America prioritizes staying current with evolving industry standards, continually adapting its products to not only meet, but exceed, these standards. The company’s commitment to innovation and customer-focused solutions drives it to develop products that are reliable, efficient and easy to install.

Made in the U.S., FloodGuard™ demonstrates ECI America’s dedication to customer-driven innovation. Initially, the water/oil detection unit was part of ECI’s comprehensive PitSafe^® system, known as the PitSafe Water/Oil Alarm. However, in response to customer requests for a standalone flood product, it was repackaged and rebranded as FloodGuard. This redesign allows FloodGuard to operate independently, offering effective water and oil detection as a standalone device.

Customer feedback has been integral to FloodGuard’s continuous improvement. A notable enhancement is the addition of dual solid-state sensors, a customer-requested feature that replaces float switches, which can malfunction or become obstructed. This upgrade provides added reliability, with the first sensor triggering an audible alert to indicate the need for assessment, while the second sensor, positioned at the designated flood alert level, signals the controller to move the elevator car to a higher floor. This dual-sensor system enables the elevator to maintain regular operation when only an assessment is needed while initiating flood protection protocols at critical levels, ensuring immediate action when necessary.

In addition, FloodGuard now offers the option to mount the audible alarm control box at a higher level than within the pit, accommodating customer requests for greater accessibility and safety in flood conditions. This flexibility, supported by extended cabling and conduit, ensures the alarm is accessible while remaining clear of potential water ingress areas.

ECI America’s FloodGuard provides essential flood protection for elevator systems, meeting industry safety standards and addressing the practical needs of field professionals. For building owners and facility managers, FloodGuard offers reliable protection against fluid intrusion risks, whether from flash floods, broken pipes or equipment failures. With its robust design, FloodGuard helps ensure the safety of both elevators and occupants, adapting to a range of fluid-related challenges that can arise unexpectedly in any building environment.

Features include: 

• Standalone Flood Alarm: Functions independently if not interfaced with a controller or monitoring system
• Universal Flood Detection: Easily connects with any elevator control system
• Dry Contact Terminal Connections: Provides event signaling
• Solid-State Fluid-Detection Sensors: Reliable detection with no moving parts or float switches
• Supports Two Fluid-Detection Sensors: Capable of detecting water and oil
• Audible 100-db electric Piezo Alarm and Visual Indication: Alerts personnel immediately upon detection
• NEMA 4 Enclosure: Facilitates easy installation with conduit-friendly design

Looking ahead, ECI America’s design process will continue to focus on the people who rely on its products every day. By combining advanced engineering with user-driven insights, ECI America remains committed to delivering dependable solutions that address the technical and practical needs of the elevator industry.