What is a Vacuum Truck and What is it Used For?

You’ve likely seen these large trucks with hoses and holding tanks attached to them and wondered what they were for. They’re called vacuum trucks and they’re powerful and efficient at sucking-up solids, powders, liquids, slurries, and more. They’re designed to tackle the even most difficult tasks, from grease traps to hazardous waste spills.

How Does a Vacuum Truck Work?

A vacuum truck, also known as a vacuum tanker works like a shop vac. A pump on the truck removes air from the holding tank, creating a vacuum. Valves are then used to create suction on the hose, allowing it to suck up liquids, powders, and sludges. Once the holding tank has all of the material inside, the truck will transport it to a waste location to safely dispose of it.

What is a Vacuum Truck Used for?

Vacuum trucks come in different sizes and capabilities. For example, some tanks can only hold either solids or liquids, while others can accommodate both. Some vacuum trucks also have a water hose that delivers pressurized water — which can be a non-invasive way to dig trenches or effectively clean septic tanks. The jobs a vacuum truck can perform are nearly endless, but here are some common uses of our vacuum trucks.

• Sewers
• Sewer lines
• Power plants
• Manufacturing facilities
• Ponds
• Floor drains
• Catch basins
• Grease traps
• Railcars
• Oil pits
• Silos

Vacuum trucks do more than just the above. They’re incredibly useful in more pressing matters, like environmental disasters. They will quickly pick up hazardous waste, oil, or ash to help prevent it from contaminating local waterways and the environment.

Your Local Source for Vacuum Trucks

Vacuum trucks help keep industrial sites, farms, and other properties clean and safe. Whether it’s sewage maintenance or an emergency cleanup, vacuum trucks can handle it. Pacific Plumbing And Drain is one of only a few companies in the area with this equipment and we’re ready to serve you. So give us a call today for an estimate on your next vacuum truck service!