Forklifts are an essential part of many warehouses and manufacturing facilities, but their battery life can often be a source of frustration for operators and maintenance teams. By following the right charging practices, it is possible to significantly improve the battery life of your forklifts and reduce the need for costly replacements.
One of the most important things to consider when charging forklift batteries is the type of charger that is being used. Not all chargers are created equal, and using the wrong type of charger can cause damage to the battery and reduce its overall lifespan. It's important to use a charger specifically designed for use with forklift batteries, as these chargers are optimised to provide the right amount of charge and protect the battery from overcharging or undercharging.
Another key factor to consider when charging forklift chargers is the charging schedule. Batteries that are left to charge for long periods of time or are frequently left in a partially charged state can suffer from a phenomenon known as the "memory effect." This can cause the battery to lose capacity over time and ultimately require replacement sooner than it should. To avoid this, it's important to charge the battery as soon as it reaches a low state of charge and to ensure that it is fully charged before use.
Temperature also plays a crucial role in the life of a battery, it's important to keep forklift batteries in a cool and dry place, high temperatures can cause the battery to degrade faster, and also it's important to avoid deep discharging the battery, this can also lead to a shorter life span of the battery.
Proper maintenance of the forklift charger is also crucial to maintaining its overall health. This includes regular cleaning of the battery terminals and checking the water levels in the battery. When adding water, it is important to use distilled water to prevent the buildup of mineral deposits in the storm.
By following these simple guidelines and using the right charging practices, it is possible to significantly improve the battery life of your forklifts and get the most out of your investment. With longer battery life, you can reduce downtime and maintenance costs, and keep your forklifts running smoothly and efficiently.