Union Machinery Blog

Here are some practical tips to help you get the most life and performance out of your electric pallet jack battery, whether it’s lead-acid or lithium-ion:

Charge Properly

• Avoid deep discharges: Don’t let the battery run all the way down before recharging. Try to keep charge levels above 20–30%.
• Top off lithium-ion batteries: These can be opportunity-charged (during breaks or between shifts) without harming battery life.
• Fully charge lead-acid batteries: They perform best with full charge cycles — partial charges can lead to sulfation and reduced capacity.
• Let it cool before charging: Especially with lead-acid batteries, avoid charging when the battery is still hot from use.

Mind the Temperature

• Ideal operating temps: Between 60°F and 80°F (15°C–27°C).
• Avoid extremes: Heat shortens battery life, and cold reduces capacity.
• Store in moderate conditions: Don’t leave batteries sitting in hot warehouses or unheated trailers.

3. Keep It Clean and Inspected

• Wipe down the top: Dust and moisture can create short circuits.
• Check cables and connectors: Look for corrosion, loose terminals, or frayed wires.
• For lead-acid batteries: Clean any corrosion with a mixture of baking soda and water.

Maintain Proper Water Levels (Lead-Acid Only)

• Check weekly or biweekly: Only add distilled water after charging, unless plates are exposed (then add before).
• Don’t overfill: Leave space for expansion during charging.

Use It Regularly

• Batteries like to be used! Regular cycling helps maintain performance.
• Avoid leaving batteries discharged or unused for long periods — this causes sulfation or cell imbalance.

Train Operators

• Make sure everyone using the pallet jack knows:
  • How to plug and unplug properly (avoid yanking cords).
  • To park the truck and power it down during breaks.
  • To report performance changes (like reduced runtime).

Schedule Preventive Maintenance

• Have your battery tested and inspected regularly.
• Many service companies in Cleveland (like All Lift Service Co.) can include battery checks as part of planned maintenance visits.
• Many people conduct planned maintenance on their forklifts but fail to consider the benefits of the same for their pallet jacks. Learn more about our planned maintenance programs.

We would be glad to assist you in selecting the right electric pallet jack for your operation and keeping it in tip-top shape. Just give us a call at 636-583-3689.