When you’re working at height, the last thing you need is your cherry picker running out of power halfway through the job. An electric cherry picker’s battery life directly impacts productivity – and we know that downtime costs you money.
Electric cherry pickers and boom lifts have become the go-to choice for many businesses. They’re quieter than diesel models, produce minimal emissions, and offer excellent manoeuvrability in tight spaces. But not all battery-powered access platforms are created equal. The type of battery powering your MEWP can make a significant difference to your operations.
We break down the main differences between lithium-ion and lead-acid cherry picker batteries so you can make the right choice for your business.
Why Does Electric Cherry Picker Battery Life Matter?
Battery life isn’t just about how long your cherry picker runs. It affects everything from job scheduling to overall costs. Poor battery performance means more frequent charging breaks. That adds up to lost productivity and frustrated workers. If you’re hiring a cherry picker for a specific job, running out of power could mean delays you simply can’t afford.
The type of battery you choose will also impact maintenance requirements, replacement costs, and the lifespan of your access equipment. Getting this decision right from the start saves hassle down the line.
What’s the Difference Between Lithium-ion and Lead-Acid Batteries?
These two battery types have been competing in the powered access market for years. Each has distinct characteristics that affect performance.
Lead-Acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are the traditional option. They’ve been powering cherry pickers and other equipment for decades. They’re generally cheaper upfront but require regular maintenance and have specific charging requirements.
Lithium-ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are newer technology. They’re lighter, more efficient, and need less maintenance. The initial cost is higher, but they typically last longer and charge faster than lead-acid alternatives.
How Long Do Lead-Acid Cherry Picker Batteries Last?
A typical lead-acid battery will give you 6 to 8 hours of runtime on a full charge. However, this depends heavily on how you’re using the cherry picker.
Heavy lifting, constant movement, and cold weather conditions can reduce battery performance. You’ll also need to factor in charging time. Lead-acid batteries usually take 8 to 10 hours to fully recharge, so many operations keep spare batteries on hand to avoid downtime.
Lead-acid batteries don’t handle partial charging well. They perform best when fully charged and fully discharged in regular cycles. This means you can’t just top them up during lunch breaks without affecting their long-term health. Most lead-acid batteries will need replacing after 1,000 to 1,500 charge cycles. That’s roughly 3 to 5 years depending on your usage patterns.
How Long Do Lithium-ion Cherry Picker Batteries Last?
Lithium-ion batteries typically offer 8 to 10 hours of runtime, so slightly longer than lead-acid batteries. But the real advantage comes from their charging flexibility. You can charge a lithium-ion battery during breaks without damageing it. A quick 30-minute charge during lunch can give you several extra hours of operation. This opportunity charging means you can maximise productivity without lengthy downtime.
Fast charging is another benefit. Most lithium-ion batteries reach full charge in 2 to 3 hours. Lithium-ion batteries also maintain consistent power output throughout their discharge cycle. With lead-acid, you’ll notice performance dropping as the battery depletes. Lithium-ion keeps your cherry picker working at full capacity until the battery is nearly empty.
These batteries typically last for 3,000 to 5,000 charge cycles. That’s roughly 8 to 10 years in most applications, which is significantly longer than lead-acid.
Which Battery Type Offers Better Value?
The upfront cost difference between lithium-ion and lead-acid cherry pickers can be substantial. However, the long-term picture looks different. Consider these factors:
Lithium-ion advantages:
- Longer lifespan means fewer replacements
- Lower maintenance costs
- Better energy efficiency reduces charging costs
- Less downtime improves productivity
- Lighter weight can improve performance
Lead-acid advantages:
- Lower initial purchase price
- Established technology with proven reliability
- Easier to source replacements in remote areas
For businesses planning to keep their cherry picker long-term, lithium-ion often works out cheaper over the equipment’s lifetime. If you’re on a tight budget or only need the picker occasionally, lead-acid might make more sense.
What About Maintenance and Replacement?
Lead-acid batteries need regular attention. You’ll need to check water levels, clean terminals, and ensure proper ventilation during charging. Neglecting maintenance can significantly shorten battery life.
Lithium-ion batteries are virtually maintenance-free. No water checks, no terminal cleaning. This saves time and reduces the risk of battery damage from improper care.
When it does come time for replacement, both battery types can be refurbished or recycled. However, lithium-ion batteries hold their value better and can often be repurposed for less demanding applications.
How Can You Maximise Your Cherry Picker Battery Life?
Regardless of which battery type powers your boom lift, these practices will help you get the most from it:
- Avoid leaving batteries completely discharged for extended periods
- Store cherry pickers in moderate temperatures when possible
- Don’t overload the platform beyond its rated capacity
- Keep batteries clean and connections tight
- Follow the manufacturer’s charging recommendations
- Schedule regular servicing to catch issues early
Proper care makes a real difference to battery performance and longevity.
Buying or Hiring an Electric Cherry Picker? TAG Can Help
Whether lithium-ion or lead-acid is right for you depends on how you’ll use the equipment. At TAG Forklift Truck Services, we can help you find the perfect solution.
We supply new and used electric cherry pickers for sale, refurbished to the highest standards. If you only need access equipment occasionally, our flexible hire options (from daily to long-term contracts) might be a better fit.
Our experienced technicians provide expert servicing and repairs to keep your cherry picker running smoothly. We also stock genuine parts and accessories, including replacement batteries and tyres.
Partner with TAG Forklift Trucks
Don’t let battery life concerns hold up your operations. Contact us to discuss your requirements.