The battery is a vital part of a forklift truck. With the majority of forklift trucks seeing heavy use, a battery failure can be extremely problematic. With that in mind, here are some helpful tips for getting the most out of your forklift battery.

The dos and don’ts of battery charging

When recharging your forklift battery there are some simple dos and don’ts that you should follow. This will ensure your battery life isn’t cut short and you get the most out of your forklift truck.

Dos

• Choose equalise charge options at least every 10 charge cycles. This will help to keep cell voltages even.
• Keep an eye on the power level. When it drops below 30%, charge the battery.
• Manage your usage. If the forklift has been in operation for eight hours you should always recharge afterwards.
• Always choose well ventilated areas to charge your battery.

Don’ts

• Interrupt a charge half way through the process.
• Leave a drained battery to sit uncharged for long periods.
• Neglect the battery – leaving it to fall below 20% charge can reduce the lifespan.
• Constantly charge just for the sake of it. A regular schedule is best.

Pay close attention to the water

Fluid levels are an important part in maintaining a healthy battery life. Over the course of a battery’s life, the water level will reduce which will expose the battery’s plates to air. This can cause permanent damage. By paying close attention to the water level, and topping up when necessary, you’ll extend the lifespan of your forklift battery. Be careful not to overfill however.

Conduct frequent battery checks

Getting regular forklift truck servicing, including battery checks, will extend the life of not only the battery, but the overall forklift truck’s lifespan. This will ensure that you get the most out of your vehicle and can save you money, forklift repairs and vehicle downtime in the long run.