How To Keep Electric Batteries Running Strong in the Cold
Electric compact equipment offers impressive benefits – lower operating costs, reduced noise and zero emissions make it an ideal choice for many industries. Whether you’re using a compact track loader for residential construction or a mini excavator for urban utility projects, electric models are efficient, environmentally friendly and versatile.
However, there’s no denying cold weather and batteries aren’t the best of friends. When temperatures drop, battery performance and runtime can take a hit, and charging becomes trickier. For electric compact equipment, this means planning ahead to keep your machines ready to tackle the job. The good news? With the right approach, you can still get reliable performance even when the thermometer dips below freezing.
Why Cold Weather Impacts Batteries
Batteries don’t thrive in freezing conditions because the chemical reactions inside them slow down as temperatures drop. This leads to less energy being available for your equipment. If the temperature falls below -10°F (-23°C), you’ll notice shorter runtime and possibly slower performance. And it’s not just while you’re using the machine – charging also becomes less efficient in the cold.
For example, if you’re using an electric compact telehandler to clear snow on a construction site, you might find it doesn’t run as long as usual in the cold. The same goes for electric mini excavators digging frost-hardened ground. Cold weather adds an extra layer of complexity, but it’s manageable with a few smart steps.
Storage and Charging: Keep Batteries Cozy
Where your equipment lives when it’s not in use makes a big difference. Parking electric machines in an enclosed space, like a workshop, garage or even a barn, can help keep the batteries from getting too cold. You don’t need a fully heated space – just being out of the wind and weather helps.
Charging is another critical factor. Whenever possible, bring the machine indoors for charging, even if it’s a partially heated area. Batteries charge more efficiently when they’re above freezing (32°F or 0°C), so give them the chance to warm up before plugging in.
If you’re out on a remote jobsite with no indoor options, you could consider a thermal blanket for the battery. It’s a great way to keep things warm and functional when nature is working against you.
Smart Operating Practices in the Cold
When it’s time to put your machine to work, warming it up first can make a world of difference. Running the equipment at idle for a few minutes gets the battery and other components, like hydraulics, up to temperature. So, if you’re using an electric mini excavator for trenching on a frosty morning, a quick warmup ensures smoother operation and better performance.
Some machines, like JCB’s electric models, have integrated features to help in the cold. For example, heat generated by the battery can be repurposed to defrost windows or warm the cab. If your machine doesn’t have these features, external solutions like battery heaters can still do the trick.
It’s also important to manage expectations. Even within the recommended operating range (-10°F to 130°F or -23°C to 54°C), battery runtime will decrease as temperatures drop. If you’re using an electric loader to haul material in freezing conditions, you may need to plan for shorter operating sessions and bring a backup charging solution if needed.
Winter Maintenance: Small Efforts, Big Payoff
Cold weather is hard on equipment, so regular maintenance becomes even more important. Check your batteries and connections for any signs of wear or damage – cold temperatures can make cracks or loose terminals worse. Also, clear off any snow, ice or frost from the machine to prevent moisture from seeping into sensitive components.
For instance, if you’re using an electric telehandler to move supplies around a frozen jobsite, keeping up with maintenance ensures it won’t quit when you need it most. Sticking to recommended charging habits, like avoiding frequent 100% charges, will also help extend the battery’s life and reliability.
Cold weather might slow batteries down, but it doesn’t have to stop your work. By keeping your machines sheltered, charging wisely and staying on top of maintenance, you can tackle winter head-on. With JCB’s electric equipment and these simple strategies, you’ll be ready to power through whatever the season throws your way.
Lee Tice is a product manager for JCB.
