In the Valley of the Sun, triple-digit temperatures are a standard part of doing business. While most warehouse managers know to keep their crews hydrated and safe, fewer realize just how damaging the extreme heat can be to their heavy equipment. The intense summer months can wreak havoc on machinery, leading to unexpected downtime and costly repairs if you aren’t prepared.
The heat impact on forklifts goes far beyond the operator’s comfort. From evaporating battery fluids to thinning hydraulic oil, high temperatures stress every major system in your lift truck. Without a proactive strategy, your fleet’s efficiency can nosedive right when you need it most.
At JTS Forklift Service, we understand these challenges intimately. With our recent expansion into the Phoenix area, we are bringing our expertise to help Arizona businesses keep their operations running smoothly, regardless of the thermometer reading. This guide breaks down exactly how the heat affects your equipment and what you can do to protect your investment.
Understanding the Impact of Heat on Forklift Components
When the ambient temperature climbs, your forklift has to work significantly harder to perform basic tasks. The internal heat generated by the engine or motor combines with the external environment, creating a thermal load that can push components to their breaking point.
Batteries
Your industrial battery is the heart of your electric lift, and unfortunately, it is highly sensitive to temperature. Excessive heat acts as a catalyst for the chemical reaction inside lead-acid batteries. While this might sound like a good thing for power output initially, it drastically accelerates corrosion and degrades the internal components.
A primary concern is Arizona forklift battery life. As temperatures rise, the fluid inside the battery evaporates much faster than usual. If the water level drops below the lead plates, the plates oxidize and become permanently damaged, reducing the battery’s capacity to hold a charge. Furthermore, charging a battery generates heat. If you charge a hot battery in a hot warehouse, you risk “thermal runaway,” which can ruin the battery entirely or even pose a safety hazard.
Hydraulics
The hydraulic system is the muscle of your forklift, responsible for lifting and steering. Hydraulic fluid relies on a specific viscosity (thickness) to lubricate seals and transfer power effectively. However, the heat impact on forklifts includes thinning this oil.
When hydraulic fluid becomes too thin due to heat, it cannot properly lubricate the pump and valves, leading to metal-on-metal friction and rapid wear. Additionally, heat causes rubber seals and hoses to expand and crack, leading to leaks and pressure loss. If your operators report “spongy” controls or slow lifting speeds during the summer, the heat is likely compromising your hydraulic system.
Electronics
Modern forklifts are equipped with sophisticated electronic systems that manage everything from speed control to safety sensors. Just like your laptop or smartphone, these components do not fare well in extreme heat.
Overheating can cause circuit boards to malfunction or shut down completely to protect themselves. In an electric forklift Arizona environment, the controllers and inverters are constantly managing high currents. If the cooling fans are clogged with dust or if the ambient air is too hot to provide cooling, these expensive electronic components can fail, grounding your equipment until a technician arrives.
Essential Maintenance Tips for Summer Forklift Operation
Preventive maintenance is your best defense against the summer heat. By adjusting your service routine during the hottest months, you can mitigate the heat impact on forklifts and ensure your fleet remains operational.
Battery Maintenance
To protect your Arizona forklift battery life, you must be vigilant about hydration.
- Check Water Levels Weekly: In high heat, water evaporates quickly. Check cells frequently and top them off with distilled water (never tap water), but only after the battery is fully charged.
- Cool Before Charging: Never plug in a battery that is hot to the touch. Allow it to cool down before connecting it to the charger to prevent internal damage.
- Clean the Terminals: Corrosion builds up faster in the heat. Keep the top of the battery clean and acid-free to prevent voltage leaks and overheating.
Hydraulic System Maintenance
Your hydraulic system needs extra attention when the temperature spikes.
- Inspect Hoses and Seals: The heat impact on forklifts often shows up first as a small leak. Inspect hoses for cracks and check the ground for fluid drips daily.
- Check Fluid Levels: Low fluid levels mean the remaining oil heats up faster. Keep reservoirs topped off.
- Use the Right Oil: Consult with a JTS technician to ensure you are using hydraulic fluid rated for high-temperature operations.
Electronic System Maintenance
Protecting the brain of your forklift is critical for electric forklift Arizona operations.
- Blow Out Dust: Dust acts as insulation, trapping heat against electronic components. Use compressed air to blow out controllers and fans regularly.
- Check Cooling Fans: Ensure that all cooling fans are operational. A broken fan in July can fry a controller in minutes.
General Maintenance
Beyond specific systems, the entire machine needs care.
- Tire Inspection: Heat increases tire pressure and softens the rubber on cushion tires. Check for “chunking” or blowouts, which are common on hot asphalt.
- Fluid Checks: For internal combustion lifts, check the engine coolant daily. Ensure the radiator is free of debris.
- Stick to the Schedule: We recommend servicing most forklifts every 250 hours or quarterly. In the intense Arizona summer, strictly adhering to this schedule is non-negotiable.
Electric Forklift Considerations in Arizona
Operating an electric forklift model in Arizona requires a shift in strategy compared to cooler climates. The ambient heat reduces the margin for error in battery and motor management.
One effective strategy is to schedule battery charging during the coolest part of the day, typically overnight. This allows the battery to dissipate heat more effectively than charging during the mid-afternoon peak. Additionally, opportunity charging (plugging in for short bursts during breaks) should be done with caution. While convenient, it generates extra heat. If the battery is already hot, opportunity charging can significantly shorten battery life.
Having a dedicated, ventilated charging area is also essential. Stagnant, hot air around a charging station prevents the battery from cooling. Industrial fans can make a significant difference in keeping battery temperatures within a safe range.
JTS Forklift Services in Phoenix
JTS Forklift Service is proud to bring our legacy of reliability to the Grand Canyon State. We understand the unique demands of the electric forklift Arizona market and the specific challenges posed by the desert climate.
Our expansion into Phoenix means local businesses now have access to:
- 24/7 Mobile Service: We come to you, day or night, to minimize downtime.
- Trained Technicians: Our team is an expert in diagnosing the heat impact on forklifts, from hydraulic rebuilds to electronic diagnostics.
- Preventive Maintenance Plans: We offer quarterly maintenance memberships designed to catch heat-related issues before they become expensive repairs.
- Hydraulic Expertise: We specialize in rebuilding hydraulic systems, ensuring your lift maintains power even in the heat.
Maximize Your Fleet’s Lifespan
The Arizona sun is unforgiving, but it doesn’t have to be a death sentence for your equipment. By understanding the risks to your machinery and implementing a rigorous maintenance schedule, you can extend the life of your Arizona forklift batteries and keep your hydraulics running smoothly.
Don’t wait for a breakdown to think about maintenance. The heat impact on forklifts is cumulative, meaning the damage happens slowly until the moment of failure. Partnering with a reliable service provider is the smartest way to protect your bottom line.
If you are operating an electric forklift fleet in Arizona or rely on heavy internal combustion equipment, JTS Forklift Service is here to help. Contact us today to set up a summer maintenance plan and keep your business moving forward.
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