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How Li-ion batteries can maximize business value & ROI of floor cleaning machines
Posted in Innovation & Technology,  Productivity, 

As businesses increasingly seek efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effective solutions in their operations, innovations in floor cleaning equipment are playing a key role in achieving these goals. One such breakthrough has been the adoption of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries in floor cleaning machines. As a matter of fact, this technology is revolutionizing the floor cleaning industry by offering remarkable advantages that significantly impact business value and Return on Investment (ROI).
Labour shortages are a persistent challenge for the European cleaning industry, impacting productivity and limiting growth opportunities. With high turnover and staffing gaps becoming the norm, minimising machine downtime is essential for maintaining efficient operations.
Tennant’s Lithium-ion powered floor cleaning machines offer a practical solution. By charging faster, running longer, and requiring zero maintenance, they help facilities maintain consistent cleaning performance—even with leaner teams.
5 reasons to choose lithium-ion batteries for your cleaning machine
1. Increased productivity with more cleaning time
Li-ion batteries are engineered to perform better and last longer than traditional lead-acid alternatives, making them a smart choice for businesses looking to enhance their cleaning operations. While Li-ion batteries come with a higher upfront cost, the long-term benefits they offer in terms of performance, maintenance, and total cost of ownership far outweigh the initial investment. With more energy stored in a compact space, Li-ion batteries ensure that floor cleaning machines run longer and work more efficiently, helping operators clean larger areas without interruption.
2. Long-lasting performance with zero maintenance
One of the standout benefits of Li-ion batteries is their exceptional lifespan. While traditional lead-acid batteries often require replacement after 500-1,000 charge cycles, lithium-ion batteries are built to last up to 4000 charge cycles—offering more than twice the longevity. This translates to a longer-lasting investment and fewer disruptions to your cleaning schedule, which can help businesses avoid costly downtime and maximize productivity.
What’s more, lithium-ion batteries require zero-maintenance, which makes them even more attractive compared to lead-acid batteries, which need regular watering. For organizations that don’t have machine operators well trained in taking care of lead acid batteries, Lithium-ion offers a maintenance-free, no fuss option.
3. Fast charging
Another incredible feature of Li-ion batteries is that they can deliver up to a 60% improvement in machine runtime between charges and they normally charge up to 40% faster than lead acid batteries. Moreover, these batteries don’t need to be on empty to take a charge, this means you can recharge the battery whenever it’s convenient for you and your business – so your floor scrubber can be in full swing when needed.

4. Enhanced safety
Safety is another critical consideration in any workplace, and here’s another occasion in which Li-ion batteries come in. By eliminating the risk of operators meeting battery acid - and the burns and inhalation injuries that can result - Lithium-ion batteries represent a safer option. Employees don’t need a specialized skill set or training to charge a Li-ion battery. Their compact design makes them easier to install and charge, simplifying the operational workflow for businesses and reducing the risk of errors and safety inconvenience.
5. Sustainable cleaning
Here we are at our last, but not least, advantage when talking about Lithium-ion batteries: sustainability.
Li-ion batteries are energy-efficient and contribute to lower carbon emissions compared to traditional power sources. In fact, switching to Li-ion eliminates reliance on non-renewable resources and reduces carbon emissions associated with operating fuel powered floor scrubbing machines. In other words, business opting for them are actively contributing to the creation of a cleaner world.
Maximising the benefits of Lithium-Ion: 3 tips for getting the most from Lithium-Ion
To fully leverage the performance and sustainability benefits of Lithium-ion technology, it’s essential to follow best practices. Here are three tips to help you get the most out of your batteries:
- Proper storage: Store batteries in a cool, dry place to extend their lifespan.
- Routine checks: Clean battery terminals regularly to maintain efficient energy transfer.
- Opportunity charging: Top up whenever convenient—no need to wait for a full drain. This keeps machines ready when needed most.
Lithium-Ion now available across more Tennant machines
Tennant has long embraced Lithium-ion technology, first introducing it with the CS5 and CS16 compact scrubbers. Given the clear benefits we equipped our entire AMR fleet with Lithium-ion batteries to maximise efficiency and uptime. Now, this proven technology is being extended with the introduction of optional Lithium-ion batteries for our T12 and T16 Ride-On Scrubbers, as well as the T191, T291, T391, T581, and T681 scrubber-dryers.
This expansion gives facilities even greater flexibility in choosing sustainable, high-performance power solutions that reduce downtime and enhance productivity.

Maximizing business value & ROI with Lithium-Ion batteries
The ability of lithium-ion batteries to provide higher performance, greater reliability, and reduced maintenance contributes to a significant reduction in the total cost of ownership (TCO). While the initial cost of lithium-ion batteries is higher than traditional lead-acid batteries, the long-term savings are undeniable. With longer battery life spans, less frequent replacements, and no maintenance costs, businesses can save substantially on operating expenses over time.
Moreover, lithium-ion batteries help reduce operating costs in other areas, including energy consumption and the need for external maintenance services. This reduction in both direct and indirect costs helps businesses improve their bottom line, maximizing ROI and reinforcing the case for upgrading to lithium-ion-powered floor cleaning machines.
Learn how Lithium-ion technology can enhance your cleaning operations and help you maximise your cleaning program from Tennant experts.
Get the Tennant Li-ion Infographic.
Read more about this technology in our dedicated white paper.
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