Three ways to extend the life of your forklift batteries

Warehouse personnel can take simple steps today to improve battery life tomorrow.

Lead-acid battery technology hasn't changed much since it was introduced in the 19th century, but that doesn't justify taking an outdated approach to maintaining the lead-acid batteries that power a facility's forklifts. Advances in charging technology and maintenance techniques combined with common-sense approaches to heating and cooling can go a long way toward keeping batteries in their best possible condition—a must when you think about the considerable investment involved in purchasing a new battery. Forklift batteries cost thousands of dollars—some upwards of $5,000.

Experts agree that battery life depends largely on how hard a particular piece of equipment is used. The more frequently a forklift is in use, the heavier the loads it carries, and the harsher the conditions it operates in, the higher the toll on battery longevity. But within those parameters, experts say adherence to proper charging and maintenance techniques can add years to battery life—which equates to meaningful savings on such high-ticket items. Here's a look at three simple steps warehouse personnel can take today to get more out of their batteries tomorrow.

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