All About Propane Forklift Fuel Systems

Written on: September 16, 2024

Everything You Need to Know About Commercial Propane Cylinder Exchange

Propane-fueled forklifts are the smartest choice for most businesses that need moderate lifting and moving both indoors and out. The ease of refueling is a big one. In fact, it’s as easy—or maybe easier—than the cylinder exchange service you probably use for your propane grill. A propane forklift fuel system is designed to keep your forklifts on the job, boosting your operation’s productivity—and your bottom line.

Easy as Swap and Go

You likely have done it multiple times over the summer: Stop by the propane dealer to swap out your empty propane grill tank for a full one. The difference is that with a propane forklift fueling system, we make sure you have a ready supply of full tanks on hand, at your location.

The Pico team will evaluate your business’s needs based on how many forklifts you have and how you use them, and put together a customized cylinder exchange program that ensures you have a steady supply of full tanks to keep your business humming. We’ll deliver a fresh supply and take away the empties on a timely basis.

What About Storage?

We’ll set up sturdy, safe storage cages for your cylinders and thoroughly train your workers in the safe handling of propane cylinders. Cylinder storage doesn’t require a lot of space. It also doesn’t require special equipment, upgraded electric, or eyewash stations. All you need is a well-ventilated or outdoor space out of the direct sun to set up storage cages.

Size Matters

Most propane-powered forklifts use 33-pound (or 8 gallon) tanks, and typically, one 33-pound tank will keep a forklift running at full power for about 8 hours—or a full shift. Swapping out the tank to refuel takes about 10 minutes. An electric forklift will lose power as it runs, and a battery can take about 8 hours to charge—again, a full shift–and requires cool-down time, as well. That means if you operate two or more shifts, you’ll need more than one electric forklift to keep working through both shifts.

For bigger forklifts, a 43-pound cylinder will keep it running for about six hours. But swapping out the tank still only takes a few minutes, with no additional downtime.

The Bottom Line

There are a lot of great benefits when you opt for a propane forklift fueling system. For starters, you get all-day power from indoor/outdoor equipment that is better at handling heavier loads and more capable when it comes to inclines. And, you’re using an efficient, American-made fuel that is low emission and safe for the environment.

It’s great for your bottom line because it offers more productive work time, and less downtime for refueling. And with locations across Texas, Pico makes it easy. Our team of fuel management experts are here to help ensure you have the propane you need when you need it—and if your workload changes or your business grows, we’re here to help you update your delivery schedule to meet your needs.

Ready to learn more? Contact us today to learn about how our propane forklift cylinder exchange or other commercial propane services can help your business thrive!