The Advantages of On-Board Auxiliary Power for Field Service Trucks

Next to their reliable tools, the work truck or work vehicle is the next most important asset for many field service professionals including landscapers, plumbers and pest control professionals. Just as important as their tools, many tradesmen rely on their field service trucks for getting to the client site, storing their equipment and even working out of it. With rising fuel charges and bylaws on portable generators and idling vehicles for different states, more and more tradesmen are considering on board auxiliary power solutions on their work vehicles to power their tools and get the job done. These systems provide significant advantages over traditional idling and portable generators, ultimately enhancing both performance and sustainability.

The Hidden Costs of Idling for Field Service Trucks

For many operators, idling the truck engine to power tools seems like an easy solution. However, this practice is costly. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, idling wastes fuel and contributes to engine wear without delivering productive output. Over time, the expenses associated with fuel consumption and maintenance can accumulate, impacting your bottom line. Instead of relying on idling, consider sustainable power for pest control operations by utilizing inverter systems that draw power directly from your truck’s auxiliary batteries, eliminating the need for wasted fuel​. Field service trucks equipped with these systems can significantly cut costs and improve efficiency.

Portable Generators: An Inefficient Option

While portable generators are commonly used for providing power for landscaping businesses, they present several drawbacks. Generators can be cumbersome, noisy, and require constant refueling—adding complexity to job site logistics. Furthermore, they can disrupt the work environment and contribute to pollution. By installing an inverter system paired with auxiliary batteries, you can create a quieter, cleaner power source that meets your needs without the logistical headaches of traditional generators​. Field service trucks with these inverter systems are more efficient and eco-friendly.

The Benefits of Inverters and Auxiliary Batteries for Field Service Trucks

Inverters play a crucial role in transforming stored DC power from auxiliary batteries into usable AC power, allowing for the operation of multiple tools simultaneously. Unlike using a diesel power generator, with an auxiliary power system, landscapers and contractors can power their tools while on the client site without worrying about fumes and noise pollution for team members and neighbors. Power systems can consist of as simple as a single inverter and onboard auxiliary power system to a full fledged electric Power Take Off system (PTO). The pure sine wave inverter of an auxiliary power system ensures a stable output, protecting sensitive equipment while providing reliable performance​. Field service trucks equipped with these inverter systems are revolutionizing how tradesmen operate.

​When choosing batteries, lithium options are increasingly favored over traditional lead-acid due to their efficiency, longevity, and .lightweight design. Although the initial investment may be higher, the long-term savings in fuel and maintenance costs, combined with improved productivity, make them an attractive choice for fleet operators. More insights into battery options can be found. Field service trucks with lithium batteries are a game-changer for many tradesmen.

Looking to the Future of Field Service Trucks

As the landscaping and pest control industries evolve, adopting advanced technologies for sustainable power is essential. By minimizing idle time and avoiding the inefficiencies of portable generators, businesses can achieve significant cost savings and improve operational efficiency. Field service trucks that incorporate these technologies will lead the way in sustainability.

For further details on innovative power solutions tailored for work trucks, consider exploring resources on work truck power solutions that can enhance your fleet’s performance. Investing in these systems will help ensure that your operations remain competitive and sustainable in the years to come.

Many field professionals work out of their vehicle
Many field professionals work out of their vehicle using on board power tools

Color WheelSun And MoonCharging BatteryEmpty BatteryFull BatteryHalf BatteryLow PowerBlenderBluetoothbus-coachescaret-downTest TubeMedical ResearchHourcloseCloud SyncCoffee JugCompassComputer NetworkWrenchConfigurationcustoms-solutionscycleSSD StorageElectric Mixerenergyenvironmentalfacebook-squareFilter DataFridgehamburgerheavy-duty-truckinstagram-squareWorld GlobeinverterIron HighLaptop Screenlinkedin-squarePinGeotagLoudspeakermarineMicrowaveWirelessNetworkpauseplayrecreational-vehiclesLockSettingsConfigAdminShield SecuritySignal BarsSmartphoneSnowflakeStatisticsKitchen StoveSunThermometer MaximumSpeedometerDeadlineSplitRemote ControlTV screentwitter-squareUSB LogoUSB LogoUSB ConnectedGame ControllerElectricityWashing MachineWater DropletUmbrellaWifiWifi SignalWindworktruck-vehicles