For those people who work with septic trucks and are involved in their day-to-day operation, it is important to know and understand that this piece of equipment should be regularly maintained to accomplish its tasks easily and efficiently.

Although this scenario is rare or seems as if it impossible to happen, it is possible for a septic truck to stop working in the middle of a job. This can happen if the equipment is not properly maintained on a regular basis. Following are some guidelines to keep the entire vehicle as well as the system itself in excellent operating condition.

Septic Tank Cleaning and Maintenance

It is approximated that about 25 percent of all households in the United States use septic tank systems. Each system must be regularly maintained to prevent sludge and scum from building up and preventing the whole setup from proper functioning. This means that the septic truck is a piece of equipment that is regularly used to perform routine septic system maintenance.

Every owner is responsible for contributing to the efficiency of this system; therefore maintenance is needed to conserve water as well as to not overload the tank. Even a simple step such as not disposing of used coffee grounds down the sink will decrease solid particles in the septic tank. Solid waste accumulates within the tank and eventually can cause the drain field to become congested, which can then result in water retention and potentially foul-smelling odors coming from the ground where the system is buried.

The process of cleaning a septic tank takes a skilled operator. The septic truck operator connects the hose to the tank and pumps out all accumulated sludge from the underground reservoir. After this process is complete, the waste is dumped at an approved wastewater facility per the regulations of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Septic Truck Cleaning and Maintenance

The septic truck must be properly maintained to achieve full productivity, optimum performance and extend the productive life-cycle of the vehicle. A high quality truck is only half of the whole equation of having good quality equipment. The other half is up to the owner and lies on the attention given to the vehicle in cleaning and maintenance. Below are tips on how this equipment should be maintained.

• Check Fluid Levels and Air Filter – The fluid levels should always be maintained at minimum levels as recommended by the manufacturer. If fluid is being frequently lost, it may be an indication of a leak. The air filter should also be changed out at regular intervals.

• Debris Body Cleaning - Raise the debris body and wash it using a power water gun. To thoroughly clear it, spray from the upper front corner downward to the rear body and change sides using the same washing technique. Wash and clean the sludge pump which is usually attached to the tailgate. When the cleaning is completed, run the truck for a short time to dry the body from moisture.

• Check Air and Water Separator Cyclone - It is important to clean this device from accumulated liquid or debris. Check the bottom plug of the cyclone, since debris often accumulates in this location. All air access areas should be thoroughly checked including the nozzles, hoses and deflectors. Be sure that all connections are leak-free to maintain the blowers’ efficiency.

• Non-Use Maintenance – At the times when the septic truck is not in used for an extended period of time, steam-clean the inside of the tank to avoid corrosion. If repainting is needed, use a good primer to prevent corrosion and if needed, rotate the blower occasionally.

By following and performing these simple tips in maintaining a septic truck, there will be a great impact on the value and profitability of the business investment in this heavy-duty vehicle. Happy cleaning!