5 Essential Tips to Maximise Forklift Battery Life in 2023

Electric powered forklifts offer substantial savings whilst bringing a whole host of other benefits to your business; however, these can be quickly lost by poor battery care. This blog takes you through 5 Essential Tips to Maximise Forklift Battery Life in 2023 giving you some helpful hints to ensure you avoid the common pitfalls and keep your battery and consequently, forklift truck, in peak condition.

1. Schedule your work around battery refuelling

Not only will this reduce downtime but it will also reduce the risk of accidents. This is because drivers won’t be rushing to recharge when the battery is running low. Always remember that batteries should not be put on charge more than once a day.

2. Check your water level regularly

It is essential for distilled water to be added to the battery at regular intervals (usually every 5 to 10 recharges), however, be aware of overfilling. Additionally, it is important you only fill up to the desired mark as otherwise the water will expand and overflow which can lead to permanent damage. Remember to always top up after charging, not before.

3. Give your battery a lunch break

A battery’s life span is determined by how many charges it has had. Therefore, the result of a continuation of short charge cycles will lead to a steady decline in battery efficiency – to the point where it won’t charge at all. Instead, allow your truck to cool off during downtime and reap the long-term rewards.

4. Don’t run beneath 20% capacity

Deep discharging may well reduce downtime; however, the forklift’s electrical components will heat up and result in significant truck damage. Furthermore, your truck won’t be running at optimum performance levels when battery levels are low. At 80% discharge, your truck’s traction and hydraulics will slow down.

5. Safeguard your charger

A forklift charger is a significant investment and therefore deserves a safe location. To minimise damage it should be kept well away from moving trucks. Ensure that all cables and plugs are kept clear of the floor to stop them from being run over. Damage to a charger is easily avoidable; don’t let it put a halt to your operations!

Looking to Maximise Forklift Battery Life?

From planned and routine maintenance to emergency breakdown, CAM offer Service Support for all makes and models of Forklift Trucks. If your equipment requires a bit of TLC, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team on 0114 243 3332 or email servicedept@camforklifts.co.uk.