Battery maintenance is widely acknowledged as a critical component of running a productive and safe warehouse. The proper process for battery repair, on the other hand, is frequently disregarded. When it comes to conserving time, prolonging the life of your forklift battery, and preserving your equipment, performing maintenance in the correct order is just as important as performing the maintenance steps themselves.
Your costs will be lower if your forklift batteries last longer. Most lead acid forklift batteries have a charge cycle of roughly 2,000, which corresponds to about five years of use. Even yet, regular maintenance is required to achieve this lifespan. Regularly do the following tasks as part of your forklift battery maintenance plan:
- Charge for equalisation
- Fill your battery cells with water
- Your battery case should be cleaned
Forklift Battery Maintenance Checklist
Some forklift operators may need to adjust maintenance intervals based on usage and application. However, as a general rule of thumb, use the following checklist:
Tasks for Weekly Maintenance
- Examine your electrolyte levels.
- If required, hydrate the cells (after charging).
- Examine battery casings for residue and, if necessary, clean with AcidSafe.
- After charging, use a hydrometer to determine the specific gravity. When completely charged, standard forklift batteries should have a specific gravity of 1.285. (check with manufacturers to make sure). Try an equalisation charge if the specific gravity of the cells vary.
- Provide an equalisation charge with plenty of time to cool down.
Tasks for Monthly Maintenance
- Examine the batteries thoroughly. Look for corrosion on the terminals. Inspect connectors and cables for wear and tear.
- AcidSafe or a similar neutralising chemical should be used to clean the tops of battery cases.
- After charging, use a hydrometer to determine the specific gravity. When completely charged, standard forklift batteries should have a specific gravity of 1.285. (check with manufacturers to make sure). Try an equalisation charge if the specific gravity of the cells vary.
Establishing a proper battery maintenance procedure is an important element of sustaining a productive and safe work environment. Charts and maintenance schedules are useful for ensuring that batteries are properly maintained. We offers a thorough battery maintenance programme if you need help looking after your forklift batteries. For the longevity of your lift trucks, make sure your crew is informed of the maintenance plan.
