Electric pallet jacks have become essential in warehouses, retail stores and logistics operations across Australia. Compact, reliable and efficient, they are a cost-effective solution for moving goods in high-traffic and confined spaces. At the heart of every electric pallet jack is its battery, and proper maintenance is critical to ensuring consistent performance, reducing downtime and extending service life.
Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) provides a full range of electric pallet jacks designed for durability and ease of use. To help you get the most from your equipment, here are the key steps to maintaining your batteries for optimal performance.
1. Follow Correct Charging Practices
Improper charging habits can shorten battery life and reduce efficiency. Always follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions. Key tips include:
- Charge the battery at the end of a shift rather than letting it run completely flat.
- Avoid frequent short charges, which can lead to incomplete charging cycles.
- Do not overcharge, use automatic chargers that stop when the battery reaches full capacity.
- For lithium-ion options, take advantage of opportunity charging during breaks to maintain consistent performance.
By adopting proper charging practices, operators can extend battery life and reduce replacement costs.
Take a deeper look—this related post has insights you won’t want to miss!
2. Keep Batteries Clean and Dry
Dust, dirt and moisture can damage batteries and cause electrical issues. Regularly clean the battery surface and ensure terminals are free of corrosion. Use a damp cloth rather than high-pressure water, which may cause short circuits or water ingress.
In environments where spillage or condensation is common, inspect battery compartments frequently to confirm they remain dry and well-ventilated.
3. Monitor Fluid Levels in Lead-Acid Batteries
For electric pallet jack models with lead-acid batteries, check fluid levels regularly and top up with distilled water as recommended. Maintaining the correct fluid level prevents damage to battery plates and ensures consistent performance. Always carry out this task after charging to get accurate readings.
If your operation uses lithium-ion batteries, this step is not required, making them a lower-maintenance option for busy workplaces.
4. Store and Operate in Suitable Conditions
Extreme heat or cold can negatively affect battery performance and lifespan. Where possible:
- Store equipment in a cool, dry environment.
- Avoid exposing batteries to direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
- Use heated storage or insulated areas for operations in very cold environments.
Maintaining stable operating temperatures helps preserve battery efficiency and prevents rapid degradation.
5. Schedule Preventative Maintenance
In addition to daily operator checks, schedule regular inspections by qualified technicians. TMHA offers servicing and preventative maintenance programs that include battery checks, terminal cleaning and performance testing.
This approach helps identify potential problems before they result in unexpected downtime and ensures that your fleet remains ready for demanding operations.
6. Train Operators on Battery Care
Operator behaviour has a major impact on battery performance. Provide training that covers correct charging, safe handling, and the importance of keeping battery compartments clean. Well-informed operators help protect your investment and maintain reliable performance.
Proper battery maintenance is essential to getting the best from your electric pallet jack. By following correct charging practices, keeping batteries clean, monitoring conditions and scheduling regular servicing, businesses can reduce operating costs and maximise equipment availability.
Toyota Material Handling Australia offers expert support, national servicing and a wide range of electric pallet jacks to meet the needs of modern warehouses and logistics operations. To explore available models, visit Toyota Material Handling and connect with a Toyota specialist today.
Keep exploring—more fascinating stories and tips on Management Works Media are waiting for you.
