Skip to Main Content
 Menu
Close

Advantages of Propane Powered Forklifts

A survey conducted by the Propane Education & Research Council revealed that safety was the most important factor in purchasing equipment for industrial applications. Because of the proven operating safety of propane-powered forklifts, it’s not surprising that propane is a top fuel choice for fleet owners. For forklifts with 5,000-10,000 lb capacity, over 70% of survey responders choose propane. Learn why.

Propane Reduces Time-to-Refuel

The time required to refuel propane forklifts is minimal when compared to electric and natural-gas powered forklifts. It takes 5 minutes to change a propane cylinder whereas an electric forklift could take up to 8 hours to recharge. And when you work with our 24x7 forklift cylinder exchange service you’ll eliminate refueling downtime.

Propane Is Cost Effective

Propane enables your forklifts to run on 100% power throughout operation, boosting productivity, especially during outdoor operation where higher speeds are allowed. In addition, propane engines can last up to twice as long as their gasoline counterparts saving you money on maintenance.

  • One 33lb propane tank can provide 8 hours of operating time for the average forklift, which is less when compared on a BTU basis for electric forklifts. In a 2005 study performed to determine the cost of electric versus propane as a fuel source for forklifts, it was confirmed that the fueling costs were lower when using propane. Per hour of forklift use, propane was determined to cost $1.41 whereas electricity cost $1.48. This difference may seem minimal at first, but when multiplied by the thousands of hours per each forklift in operation – it adds up quickly!
  • The extra expense incurred by electric forklifts are attributed to the overhead equipment needed for battery recharging, including a charging bay, chargers, and equipment to remove and more the large batteries. There is no additional equipment to purchase for propane-powered forklifts.

Propane Is Safe

All propane-powered forklifts have automatic shut-off safety features that stop the flow of fuel in the event of an accident. In addition, all propane tanks, fuel lines, and carburetion components are required to meet strict national safety specifications.

With our cylinder exchange service, Forklift Propane eliminates the need for dispensing propane on your property which could be a potential safety hazard for you and your employees. We carefully inspect cylinders each time they are returned to our facility for refills, remove damaged cylinders from service, and replace or repair leaky valves and O-rings. Furthermore, we provide forklift propane safety training for your employees as a part of our service. Learn more about the safety advantages of propane forklifts.

Propane Reduces On-Site Emissions

Propane is a clean-burning, non-toxic source of fuel. Research has shown that properly maintained propane-powered forklifts produce significantly less emissions in the way of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, hydrocarbon, and particulate matter than comparable gasoline- or diesel-powered forklifts. This secondary source of pollution is eliminated because propane-powered forklifts carry their fuel in a pressure-tight, sealed system that avoids any spillage or evaporation into the atmosphere.

A research study conducted on which forklift fuel option had the lowest emission impact found propane to deliver the highest total energy efficiency. Propane received an efficiency rating of nearly 90%, followed by natural gas at 87%, diesel at 85%, and gasoline at 82%. By switching to an environmentally friendly fuel you can also take advantage of tax credits.

Propane Is Largely American-Made

With more than 70% of propane production coming from domestic sources, your business can be a part of reducing dependence on foreign oil sources. Increasing usage of domestically-produced propane not only decreases our dependency on foreign oil but also decreases the amount and cost of fuel for transporting this energy source.

Propane Storage Is Flexible

Because propane is the most portable forklift fuel option, propane cylinders can be stored nearly anywhere at your place of business.


About Forklift Propane Exchange

Forklift Propane Exchange is a network of locally owned and operated propane cylinder exchange providers. We offer 24/7 propane service and offer a variety of superior propane products. Contact your local provider for a propane supplier you can trust!

Find A Location Near you