As temperatures drop, powered access platforms can become more vulnerable to performance issues, with flat batteries being one of the biggest issues. For teams working on installs, maintenance or repairs, winter downtime isn’t just inconvenient, it can cost time, money, and reputation.
The good news? In this article, our Aftersales Manager, Todor Ilinov runs you through one simple solution that can dramatically reduces the impact of the winter on a MEWP’s battery.
By taking this simple precaution now, you can avoid unnecessary delays, disruptions, and expenses during the colder months. But the advice in this article is also helpful when working at height in warehouses and factories with refrigerated or freezer units.
Why Charging Up Your MEWPs is So Important in Winter and Cold Conditions
The batteries fundamentally store chemical energy and like any chemical reaction, the batteries are also affected by temperature. The cold weather not only limits the performance of the battery but also changes the parameters in which the battery can be used. A fully discharged battery can freeze much easier than fully charged one, causing performance issues or even permanent damage. By ensuring your access platforms are properly charged up, especially after being stationary overnight or during a weekend, bank holiday or Christmas break, you ensure the platform is always ready to keep your project moving without interruptions.
There is a temptation to have focus on your schedule and finishing the job at hand. But forget to make sure your access platform is fully charged and the consequences are hard hitting. So, why do MEWP operators and managers managing teams using MEWPs need to consider and plan for keeping MEWPs charged?
Avoid Costly Downtime During Cold Snaps
Flat batteries are one of the most common reasons MEWPs fail to start in low temperatures. In winter, a machine that would normally hold charge can drain much faster. Properly charging ensures your platform is ready to go when your team is. Likewise, don’t forget to charge the platform overnight if you’re returning the following day. If you’re on a scheduled break, make sure you charge up your MEWP before you leave to avoid slower start and delays on your return to site.
Prevent Non-Collection Charges Due to Flat Batteries
If a MEWP is left with a flat battery at the end of hire, it may not be safe or possible for drivers to collect it and get the machine on the delivery truck. This impacts the hire company’s delivery and collection schedules and leads to additional charges for the hirer as collection is not possible without waiting for the machine to charge or for an engineer to rectify any subsequent faults.
Keeping your scissor lift, boom, battery-powered push around or personnel lift charged not only keeps you productive, but it also protects you from unnecessary costs, delays and avoidable administration headaches.
Maintaining Performance and Reliability in Low Temperatures
Batteries and electrics work harder in the cold. Regular charging helps maintain voltage levels, reduces strain on the internal systems, and supports consistent lift performance throughout the day.
Project schedules are vital, not only for the contractor staying within budget but also for meeting customer expectations. Fail to maintain your MEWP’s charge and you will find yourself stopping and starting, compromising the ability to finish projects on time and within budget.
Consistent, appropriate charging helps safeguard the machine’s electrical components, supporting reliability and safe operation on site. The right transformer also ensures the MEWP receives stable power, preventing long-term damage.
Reduce Nuisance Trips and Set Avoidable Electrical Faults
Temporary power on busy sites can be unpredictable, and cold conditions can make electrics more sensitive. Using the right transformers and leads helps stabilise power input and reduces the risk of mid-task trips or faults that stall progress.
Not Sure What You Need? We Can Recommend the Best Setup
Different MEWPs and sites require different power solutions. If you’re unsure which transformer or lead is right for your next MEWP hire, our team is always happy to help.
Whether you’re hiring a scissor lift for working in a refrigerated warehouse or a boom lift for a complex multi-trade construction project, we’ll ensure your setup is safe, efficient, and winter-ready.
In addition, if you own your MEWPs and are having reoccurring problems or faults with your lifter’s power, feel free to contact our MEWP service and maintenance team for help.
Add Transformers and Leads to Your Next Hire: Avoid those Hassles
Keep your winter work-at-height operations running smoothly. When placing your next MEWP hire order, simply ask for transformers and leads via email or phone. Alternatively, log into HireHub and add them to your order.
