PVE-30 (Pneumatic Vacuum Residential Elevator)

PVE30 Pneumatic Vacuum Elevator in coastal home

The World’s Smallest Residential Vacuum Elevator

The PVE30 is the most compact pneumatic vacuum elevator available, with a 30-inch (762 mm) external cylinder diameter. This single-passenger model supports a rated load of 350 lbs (158 kg) and travels at 30 feet per minute (0.15 m/s). No pit, hoistway, or machine room is needed. The elevator rests directly on the existing ground floor, which must be 100% level.

Homeowners along Florida’s Panhandle coast select the PVE30 for effortless multi-level access in townhouses, elevated beach homes, and waterfront condos. Coastline Lift, based in Panama City Beach, handles every phase: site evaluation, permitting, installation, and ongoing support. Most projects finish in 2–3 days.

Enjoy a quiet, smooth ride powered solely by air. The panoramic polycarbonate cabin provides a complete 360-degree view.

Ready to explore the PVE30 for your home?

Why Choose the PVE30 Pneumatic Vacuum Elevator

  • Fits the tightest spaces. Only 30 inches wide, ideal for corners or beside staircases in beach properties.
  • Minimal structural work. Just a 32-inch finished through-floor hole.
  • Fast, clean installation. Typically 2–3 days with full protection of floors and walls.
  • Built for salt air and humidity. Aluminum and polycarbonate construction resists corrosion. Hurricane-rated brackets available.
  • Energy efficient. Electricity required only for ascent; descent needs no power.
  • Full panoramic cabin. Transparent walls bring in natural light and unobstructed views.
  • Boosts accessibility and resale value. Perfect for aging in place on the Emerald Coast.
  • Trusted local expertise. Coastline Lift knows Panhandle wind-load codes, elevated foundations, and waterfront requirements.

Key Features of Residential Vacuum Elevator 37

  • Rated load: 350 lbs (158 kg), one passenger
  • Speed: 30 fpm (0.15 m/s)
  • External cylinder diameter: 30″ (762 mm)
  • Internal cabin height: 79″ (2007 mm)
  • Entrance width: 20″ (508 mm)
  • Internal cabin diameter: 20″ (508 mm) between columns / 26″ (661 mm) without columns
  • Automatic LED lighting and ventilation fan
  • 24-volt controls located entirely in the cabin
  • Push-button call stations with precise leveling at each landing
  • Same-side (in-line) door openings only
  • Doors hinged top left with swing to the left from inside the cabin
  • One door per landing
  • Pure pneumatic drive, no cables, pistons, or hydraulics
PVE Installation Requirements - Standard & Split Unit

Technical Specifications

CategoryDetails
ModelPVE30, Single Passenger
Rated Load350 lbs (158 kg)
Speed30 fpm (0.15 m/s)
External Cylinder Diameter30″ (762 mm)
Internal Cabin Diameter20″ (508 mm) between columns. 26″ (661 mm) without columns
Cabin Height79″ (2007 mm)
Entrance Width20″ (508 mm)
Door Height80″ (2032 mm) standard. 81¾″ (2077 mm) with door closer
Door ConfigurationSame-side (in-line) only. Top-left hinge. Left swing from inside. One door per landing
Maximum TravelUp to 50 feet (typically 2–5 stops)
Minimum Overhead ClearanceStandard unit: 107″ (2719 mm)
Split unit: 97″ (2464 mm)
Floor Penetration Required32″ (813 mm) finished hole
Power Supply220 VAC, 60/50 Hz, single phase, 25–30 AMP
Drive System3 turbine motors in pump box. Total 3 kW. Pneumatic vacuum

Electrical Requirements
The PVE30 requires a dedicated 220 VAC (exact, no exceptions), single-phase, 30-amp circuit (L1, L2, Ground) using AWG #10 (6 mm²) conductors and an exclusive 25–30A thermo-magnetic switch.

• 210 VAC or 230 VAC is not acceptable. Voltage fluctuations are not covered under warranty.
• A Buck Boost transformer or voltage stabilizer is strongly recommended.
• Primary disconnect and female receptacle provided by homeowner at top center of elevator (or remote head for split units).
• Supplied 4-foot power cord with angled plug (Pass & Seymour 2869 or equivalent: 30/50 A, 250 V, black).
• Matching flush receptacle: Pass & Seymour 3801 or equivalent.
• Telephone jack (if added) must be isolated near power supply.

Coastline Lift coordinates with your electrician for full Florida code compliance. We recommend they contact us before starting.

Installation Requirements

Standard Model

  • Minimum height at ground floor: 92″ (2.34 m)
  • Minimum height at upper floor(s): 107″ (2.70 m)
  • Finished through-floor hole diameter: 32″ (813 mm), all holes perfectly aligned for 3+ stops
  • Ceiling perforation at least 2″ (5 cm) from walls for tripod access
  • Access opening for cylinders: 32″ wide x 92″ long (via door or window)
  • Ceiling hook rated for 1,500 lbs to lift cylinders during install (if no hook possible, upper floor height must be at least 109″ / 2.77 m)
  • Noise note: Larger rooms reduce turbine sound; avoid very small enclosed spaces

Split Unit Model (Remote Turbine Location)

  • All standard requirements apply except:
  • Minimum upper floor height: 97″ (2.47 m)
  • Remote head unit space needed: 35″ L x 31″ W x 26″ H (0.89 m x 0.78 m x 0.66 m)
  • Maximum distance from elevator: 30 linear feet (10 m)
  • 4″ (10 cm) PVC pipe required between cylinder split plate and remote head
  • Air intake must come from interior of home (proper housing with 6″ clearance on all sides)
  • Electrical supply directly to remote head location

Coastline Lift performs full site assessment to confirm your home meets these requirements and handles all permitting and code compliance.

How the PVE30 Operates

Three turbine motors create vacuum above the cabin for ascent. Descent is by controlled pressure release, no electricity required to go down. The simple pneumatic design means fewer moving parts, exceptional reliability, and minimal maintenance.

Safety Features

  • Automatic descent to ground level at reduced speed during power failure
  • Mechanical emergency brakes engage within two inches of freefall (vacuum loss or failure)
  • Electromechanical interlocks on every landing door
  • 24-volt low-voltage cabin controls
  • Alarm system with optional in-cabin telephone

All units meet or exceed ASME A17.7 safety standards.

Available Options & Customizations

  • Cylinder colors: Anodized Silver, Black, White, Light Gray, Dark Gray, Taupe
  • Split-unit configuration for lower overhead
  • Folding cabin seat
  • In-cabin telephone and alarm
  • Keyed controls
  • Solar power package
  • Hurricane-rated anchoring brackets (recommended for coastal Florida)

Cylinder Colors

Anodized Silver
Black
White
Light Gray
Dark Gray
Taupe

Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the PVE30 wheelchair accessible?

No. The 20-inch entrance and cabin dimensions suit one standing passenger or narrow mobility aid. For full wheelchair access, consider the PVE37 or PVE52.

What maintenance is needed?

Annual inspections recommended. Major seal replacement typically every 5 years or 15,000 rides.

Will it work in power outages or storms?

Yes. It safely descends to ground level and remains secure until power returns.

How much power does it use?

Comparable to a household appliance, only during ascent.

Full-Service Support from Coastline Lift

We provide complete turnkey service across the Florida Panhandle: consultation, permitting, installation, warranty, maintenance plans, and 24/7 emergency response.
Serving Panama City Beach, Destin, 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, Mexico Beach, and surrounding areas.

Contact us today for a free home evaluation and quote.
Email: sales@coastlinelift.com

Areas We Serve

Mexico Beach

Saint George Island

Jacksonville

Alys Beach

Miramar

Navarre

Gulf Breeze

Cape San Blas

Pensacola

Get In Touch

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to elevate your home with our innovative elevator solutions or have any questions, feel free to reach out to our team. We’re here to help!