How Much Does Installing a Dumbwaiter Cost in 2025?
Installing a dumbwaiter costs an average of $10,000
Installing a dumbwaiter costs from $8,000 and $12,000 but can go up to $20,000.
Factors influencing the dumbwaiter cost include type, size, labor, and additional features.
Manual dumbwaiters usually cost between $3,000 and $8,000, while electric models range from $10,000 to $20,000.
Hiring a professional to install a dumbwaiter ensures compliance with local codes and safe, proper installation.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
The cost to install a dumbwaiter ranges from $8,000 and $12,000 with an average cost of $10,000, depending on the type, size, installation complexities, and other factors. Budgeting properly and hiring a professional will ensure your dumbwaiter is installed correctly and meets local codes. You can expect to spend about 45% of the total project cost on materials, typically between $2,000 and $7,000, with the remainder going toward labor.
Dumbwaiter Cost Factors
Installing a dumbwaiter is similar to installing an elevator in your home and depends on a few factors. These factors will inform your total dumbwaiter installation cost.
Size
The cost of installing a dumbwaiter varies based on its size and the weight it can carry. Larger units capable of lifting more weight are generally more expensive than smaller ones. Dumbwaiters typically come in four sizes: mini, standard, midsize, and oversized, with weight capacities ranging from 100 to 500 pounds. Here's a breakdown of sizes and their average costs:
| Size | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Mini | $2,000–$7,500 |
| Standard | $4,000–$12,000 |
| Mid-sized | $7,000–$17,000 |
| Oversized | $10,000–$20,000 |
Labor
Labor is the most significant part of the cost of installing a dumbwaiter in your home. Installing a dumbwaiter in an existing shaft averages $750 to $7,500. Installing a dumbwaiter in a new shaft typically costs $2,500 to $3,500. The combined installation cost (shaft formation plus dumbwaiter installation) may range from $3,500 to $11,000, with an overall average of around $10,000.
Dumbwaiter installation costs include these tasks:
Rerouting electrical lines
Moving plumbing fixtures
Shaft installation
Exterior finishes
Drywall and paint for the area
Access door installation
Manufacturers
Materials for a dumbwaiter typically cost between $2,000 and $7,000, averaging around $4,000, depending on the manufacturer you choose. There are several residential dumbwaiter brands to consider, each offering different features and price points to fit your budget and needs. Here are some popular dumbwaiter manufacturer options:
| Manufacturer | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Matot | $2,000–$6,000 |
| Inclinator | $3,500–$6,000 |
| Powerlift | $4,000–$7,000 |
| Harmar | $4,000–$7,000 |
New Dumbwaiter Shaft
On average, installing a new dumbwaiter shaft costs between $2,500 and $3,500. The work begins with building a shaft for the car to travel in. For older homes, this involves opening the wall and possibly replacing electrical wires and plumbing. For newer homes, it entails either opening or adding a space that will hold the shaft.
One option is to convert an unused closet into a dumbwaiter shaft. Another option is to move an existing duct and use that area for the shaft, which is the most laborious task, especially for larger dumbwaiters.
Finishes
Dumbwaiters come in a variety of finishes, some more expensive than others. Powder-coated options are usually less costly and often the most practical for most interiors. Other options, such as stainless steel or wood paneling, are available at an extra cost.
Dumbwaiter Cost by Type
Dumbwaiters are convenient ways to transport food and goods between floors in your home. There are two main types: manual and electric. Understanding the differences between them can help you decide which is best for your needs and your budget. Let's take a closer look at each type.
| Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Manual | $3,000–$8,000 |
| Electric | $10,000–$20,000 |
Manual
Manual dumbwaiter materials and installation vary in price depending on size but usually cost between $3,000 and $8,000. Operated by pulling a rope, these are found in many older homes. While they can only hold up to 50 pounds, manual dumbwaiters offer several advantages. They're more economical, require less maintenance, and still work during power outages.
If you have narrow spaces that are not easily accessible, a manual dumbwaiter might be the ideal choice. However, if you need to move items over greater distances, like to a basement or attic, an electric dumbwaiter might serve you better.
Electric
Labor plus material costs for an electric dumbwaiter typically range from $10,000 to $20,000. You raise and lower electric dumbwaiters by pressing a button. The motor is located either above or below the unit and moves the dumbwaiter up and down. Electric dumbwaiters can lift up to 500 pounds, making them ideal for heavier items.
Choosing an electric dumbwaiter offers several benefits. It allows you to move heavier items effortlessly, reducing physical strain. Safety features like an interlock system prevent the doors from opening when not at a designated level, enhancing safety in your home. However, electric dumbwaiters have higher costs and won't operate during power outages.
DIY vs. Hiring a Dumbwaiter Installation Pro
While it might be tempting to install a dumbwaiter yourself, especially if you have some construction experience, it's best to hire a home remodeling pro to handle the job. Installing a dumbwaiter involves complex tasks like building a shaft and connecting electrical components. Additionally, warranties for dumbwaiters usually only cover installations performed by the manufacturer's licensed dealer, and manufacturers often require licensed technicians for any repair work.
It's wise to hire a licensed professional contractor to avoid unnecessary risks and ensure your dumbwaiter is installed safely and correctly. If you have specific accessibility needs, contact local ADA contractors for assistance.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Adding a dumbwaiter to your home can greatly enhance convenience and efficiency. Imagine effortlessly transporting groceries, laundry, or firewood between floors without physical strain. A dumbwaiter eliminates the hassle of carrying heavy items up and down stairs, improving accessibility and streamlining your daily tasks. It's a smart addition that can make your home function more smoothly and safely, especially if you have mobility constraints.
Yes, dumbwaiters are legal in most areas, provided they comply with local building codes and safety regulations. It's important to ensure that any dumbwaiter you install meets current safety standards and has the necessary third-party certifications. Avoid DIY or homemade systems, as these won't pass inspections and can be very dangerous.
Always work with a reputable manufacturer and a professional installer to ensure your dumbwaiter is safe and legal. This way, you can enjoy the convenience it offers without worrying about compliance issues.
The time it takes to install a dumbwaiter can vary depending on the complexity of your project. If you're installing a dumbwaiter into an existing shaft, the process might only take a few hours. However, if you need to construct a new shaft, it could take anywhere from one to seven days. Factors like modifications to walls, rerouting electrical lines, and adjusting plumbing can add to the timeline, especially if your installation spans multiple floors. Working with a professional ensures the installation is done safely and efficiently.
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