Companies benefit significantly from renting heavy equipment, which often remains out of reach due to high upfront costs. In fact, utilization patterns may not favor equipment ownership. Nevertheless, every business wants to optimize its balance sheet. Even though equipment rentals are usually affordable, there is always a way to keep operational costs in check. For example, if you opt for an aerial work platform rental for outdoor projects, you are most likely to need a diesel-powered boom lift. How do you improve the fuel economy of your rented aerial lift? To do this, you need to understand a few basic factors.
Factoring boom lift fuel consumption into costs
Before renting any particular boom lift model, you should focus on its engine and power requirements. Larger equipment with higher reach and lifting capacities has bigger engines, which require more fuel to operate. However, a small articulating boom lift designed for lighter workloads may be more affordable to use. If your project requires frequent carrying of heavy loads at heights, you would want to rent an aerial lift with a powerful engine. At the same time, you should also know that it can consume more fuel due to continuous operation. If the machine is used for lighter tasks and allowed adequate idle time, your fuel costs may be lower.
In this context, it is also important to assess the condition of the worksite. Fuel consumption will be higher if the machine is operated on uneven or rough terrain or in a challenging environment. For example, fuel usage tends to increase during extreme temperatures because these conditions affect engine efficiency. To be precise, you cannot predict exact fuel costs without using a unit. However, it is worth noting that a lightweight, small boom lift may use only 0.5–1 gallon of diesel per hour during normal working conditions. Medium-sized boom lifts with greater reach may consume 1–2 gallons of fuel per hour. Heavier models with much higher lifting capacities may consume 2–4 gallons of diesel per hour. Of course, usage and load matter.
Managing fuel consumption
When you use an aerial lift, you will be responsible for its maintenance. Maintain the engine, clean air filters, and keep the tires inflated. A healthy engine will run more efficiently, consuming less fuel. Make sure the aerial lift operator is trained. Only trained operators can operate boom lifts by focusing on the right speed and power settings. They will not idle the machine unnecessarily. If you plan to use the aerial work platform over a wide area, you should properly plan routes. You don’t want to move it around and burn fuel unnecessarily.
Things to consider
Renting an aerial lift costs money, so make sure it is justified. Engine and fuel consumption considerations are crucial. When you rent it, you should not only look at the short-term or long-term charges. Paying attention to delivery and pickup fees is equally important. Somesuppliers charge by the mile, and others offer delivery within a certain distance.
you can choose from a variety of boom lift options. No matter where you rent the equipment, you should ask suppliers about their rental terms and clarify any questions you may have. You want this partnership to be more dependable and affordable. See more