Ultimate Guide to Scrubber & Sweeper Batteries
- by Joe Weber - updated on 7/1/2025
Keeping your commercial floor scrubbers and sweepers running at peak performance starts with the right battery. Whether you're cleaning a warehouse, retail store, or healthcare facility, battery reliability is key to maximizing productivity and minimizing downtime. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about scrubber and sweeper batteries—from selecting the best type to extending their lifespan through proper care and maintenance.
What You'll Learn
- Types of batteries used in commercial floor scrubbers and sweepers
- Best practices for maintaining battery life
- Choosing the right battery for your machine
- Why Batteries Plus is a trusted local partner
- Frequently asked questions
Battery Types for Scrubbers & Sweepers
Most commercial floor scrubbers rely on deep-cycle lead-acid batteries, available in 6 V and 12 V options. These batteries are designed to deliver sustained power over extended cleaning cycles, particularly in demanding industrial and commercial environments.
Lithium batteries, although much less common, are beginning to gain popularity due to their consistent runtime, lighter weight, and ease of charging, as well as their elimination of acid-related safety concerns.
Check out our impressive selection of floor scrubber and sweeper batteries.
How to Choose the Right Battery
- Match the voltage and amp-hour (Ah) rating to your machine's OEM specs.
- Higher Ah = longer runtime between charges.
- Consider AGM or lithium for cleaner, maintenance-free operations.
- Work with a local provider (like Batteries Plus) to ensure proper fit, testing, and warranty coverage
Battery Health & Maintenance Tips
1. Check & Refill Electrolyte Levels
- Flooded lead-acid batteries should be topped with distilled water ¼″ above the plates after charging.
- VRLA/AGM batteries and lithium batteries require zero water maintenance
2. Ideal Charging Procedures for Scrubber Batteries
- Always use a charger designed for the chemistry of your battery. It should state that it is rated for Flooded, AGM, GEL, or Lithium.
- Use chargers with auto shut-off, deep-cycle mode, and 9–20 A at 24 V.
- Always connect to the machine first, then plug it into the outlet.
- Wait at least 30 minutes of runtime before recharging to prevent damage.
3. Clean & Inspect Connections
- Keep battery terminals and wire harnesses corrosion-free.
- Use baking soda and water, or a terminal cleaner, with a wire brush—avoid letting it seep into cells.
Pro Tip: How to Clean Car Battery Corrosion: Step-by-Step is a walkthrough to clear car batteries of corrosion. The steps for cleaning will be the same for scrubber and sweeper batteries, and will be very helpful.
4. Regular Machine Maintenance
Include steps like:
- Emptying rinse tanks after use
- Cleaning brushes/pads
- Descaling jets with vinegar overnight
- Wiping down squeegees before drying
5. Watch Battery Age & Usage
- Expect a 3–5 year lifespan for most battery-powered scrubbers.
- Battery runtime decreases over time and with high-load jobs, especially in lead-acid packs.
Quick Scrubber Maintenance Checklist
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Check water and refill if needed (lead-acid) | After each full charge |
| Recharge batteries | After every use |
| Clean battery terminals | Weekly |
| Empty/rinse tanks | After every use |
| Brush and squeegee rinse | After each use |
| Descale jets | Monthly |
| Battery load-test | Quarterly |
Why Partner with Batteries Plus
Keeping your commercial floor scrubbers and sweepers running at peak performance starts with the right battery—and the right partner. Whether you're managing a janitorial team, overseeing a healthcare facility, or maintaining a warehouse floor, reliable battery power is essential to maximizing efficiency, minimizing downtime, and protecting your bottom line.
That's where Batteries Plus comes in. Log in or create an account today to enjoy all of the benefits of a Batteries Plus Business Account.
We offer more than just replacement batteries—we are the experts in charge and provide ongoing support for your entire operation. With a Batteries Plus Business Account, your team gets access to exclusive benefits designed to save you time and money, including:
- Special business pricing and volume discounts
- Dedicated account managers for personalized service
- Fast local delivery or in-store pickup to keep your crew on schedule
- Free battery testing and installation support
- Access to thousands of commercial battery solutions, including 6V, 8V, 12V, and 24V options in AGM, flooded, and lithium chemistries
- Recycling and disposal assistance to help you stay compliant and sustainable
- Customized solutions for unique equipment needs, whether you're managing a single location or a multi-site operation
From expert advice to nationwide inventory, Batteries Plus is the power partner businesses trust to keep their equipment running strong. Learn more about how our commercial team can help you and your business!
FAQ: Scrubber & Sweeper Batteries
Q: Why do some scrubber batteries say "golf" on them?
A: Many floor scrubbers use the same type of deep-cycle batteries commonly found in golf carts. These batteries are designed to deliver consistent power over long periods, making them ideal for both applications.
So, if you see "golf" on a battery label, it's not the wrong battery; it simply means it meets the same performance and size specifications required by golf carts, which also happen to be a perfect fit for many floor cleaning machines.
Q: How often should I top off the battery water?
A: After every full charge of your flooded lead-acid batteries, use only distilled water to fill ¼″ above the plates. VRLA/AGM batteries are completely sealed and require no refilling.
Q: Can I use any charger for my scrubber battery?
A: Always use a deep-cycle, auto-shut-off charger matching your machine's voltage (e.g., 12 V or 24 V) and battery chemistry. Avoid regular vehicle-type chargers.
Q: Why does the battery runtime drop suddenly?
A: Possible causes include aging batteries, heavy usage, or excessive discharge before recharge. Schedule battery testing or replacement every 3–5 years.
Q: Is lithium worth it over lead-acid?
A: Lithium packs cost more upfront but offer consistent power, faster charging, and no acid or water maintenance, saving time and avoiding spills.
Q: How long do deep-cycle batteries last?
A: Generally 3-6 years, sometimes as long as 10 years, depending on the chemistry, maintenance, and usage. Replacements typically come after 3–5 years under heavy use.
Q: How does Batteries Plus support business accounts?
A: We offer expert consultation, volume pricing, fast delivery, free testing, and a vast inventory, tailored to facilities managers, contractors, healthcare, education, and more
Power Your Cleaning Equipment with Confidence
Choosing the right batteries and maintaining them properly can dramatically improve the performance and lifespan of your floor scrubbers and sweepers. Whether you're using flooded lead acid or AGM deep-cycle batteries, proper care and the right replacement options are essential to keeping your equipment running smoothly and your team on schedule.
Need help selecting the best battery for your machine? Visit your local Batteries Plus store to speak with one of our experts, get your current batteries tested for free, and explore our wide selection of commercial-grade options. Want even more value? Set up a free Business Account and gain access to exclusive pricing, fast local delivery, and personalized support built around your operation's needs.
Power smarter. Clean better. Partner with Batteries Plus. We are the Experts in Charge.