If you’re on the fence between electric and propane forklifts for your business in Metro Atlanta, take a look at these comparison points:
Performance – When compared with electric-powered forklifts, propane-powered models come out on top. They can be run around the clock and work better on inclines. Their ability to push substantial loads at full capacity lasts longer. Perhaps most important, they also are faster. Electric forklifts reach 8 to 9 miles per hour, whereas the usual range of propane forklifts is 9.5 to 10.5 mph.
Convenience – If you need to refuel a propane forklift, all you have to do is replace the empty cylinder with a full one. However, if you’re working with an electric model, you need to charge the battery — and the forklift can’t operate while the battery is charging. If an unexpected power outage takes place, your business could experience unnecessary — and avoidable — delays.
Maintenance – Propane forklifts require fairly minimal maintenance, as they’re running on such an efficient, clean-burning fuel. They don’t have batteries to maintain or charge, and are overall less expensive to own and fuel than your other options.
That’s right: Forklifts aren’t the only way propane comes out ahead of electricity. When the temperature drops, propane uses less energy than electricity for heating comparable spaces.
From a transporting and storage standpoint, propane has the edge over natural gas, since propane supply and related repairs do not depend on an off-premises supply. In addition, with propane, you will not be dealing with pipeline issues or weather events.
Using natural gas is limited on proximity to natural gas pipelines. If your forklift runs out of fuel away from its source, refueling the forklift becomes a logistical challenge. A full replacement propane cylinder quickly refuels propane-powered forklifts.
In terms of delivery, propane is also more dependable, since it does not rely on geographical requirements, as natural gas pipelines do. Instead, your tank — meaning your supply — is on-site.
Contact us to learn more about how propane compares with electricity and other fuels and how energy-efficient propane can benefit your Metro Atlanta commercial operation.