Lithium Vs. AGM Vs. Lead Acid Batteries

Lead Acid Batteries

Lead acid batteries are the cheapest upfront option when considering what battery to choose for your Hy-Brid Lift. However, there are some unexpected costs down the road that make lead acid batteries cost more than intended. 

When using lead acid batteries, over the span of 10 years you will have to replace 14 lead acid batteries and check and top off the water level over 120 times. Say each replacement battery is $125, which is already $1750 in maintaining your scissor lift not even considering the price for a worker doing a water check. Compared to Lithium batteries, the cost of lead acid batteries will cost 4-6 times the cost of using a lithium battery over 10 years.

AGM Batteries

Absorbent glass mat (AGM) batteries are spill-proof sealed lead acid batteries that require some maintenance.  AGM batteries have thin fiberglass mats which are saturated in acid and soldered into place before being compressed between the lead plates, effectively holding the battery’s electrolyte in place. AGM is a better option than standard lead acid when considering which battery to choose for your new scissor lift.

AGM batteries are a safer option compared to lead acid batteries because there is no need to water an AGM battery so workers are no longer exposed to the acid from the battery. However, there is some gas that vents out from the battery. 

AGM has a slightly longer life expectancy along with more charge cycles. The charge time for AGM batteries is around the same as a lead acid battery.

Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are the best option for your scissor lifts to increase your return on investment. Lithium batteries cost the most upfront but are the longest-lasting, most efficient battery for your scissor lift. Additionally, safety is improved because there is no battery acid to worry about.

Lithium increases ROI because you do not need to replace or maintain the battery for over 10 years. Within that same timeframe, you would have replaced your lead acid batteries at least seven times.

No maintenance lithium batteries can be stored as long as you need without charging. When charging the battery, you don't have to worry about reducing the battery life from opportunity charging, and charge times are significantly shorter due to a simpler charge process. With lithium, run times are longer because you can use more of the available amp-hours without damaging the battery allowing you to spend less time worrying about your battery and more time on more important tasks.