How to keep your toilet service tanks in optimal working condition?

10/20/2025

Control points at sanitary service tanks and vacuum pumps 

As with any other business, there are fundamental components that must be kept in optimal condition to ensure proper functioning. This is achieved by establishing daily control points, which is applicable to any type of business, regardless of its location or sector. The sanitary cleaning sector is no exception. One of the most important control points in this sector is ensuring that service or vacuum tanks are maintained in optimal condition.

Where should the checkpoints be established? 

In the sanitation business, which involves the collection, treatment, and disposal of solid and liquid waste, it's essential that tools and equipment are properly maintained. As the saying goes, "We are what we eat, and our image reflects who we are." Similarly, businesses reflect the care they receive. If you see a dirty truck with peeling paint, faulty pumps, or improperly installed hoses, there are likely other internal problems not immediately visible. No matter how large your business is or how many branches you have, if your image isn't clean, it won't reflect well on you.

For this reason, the sanitary tank is one of the most important assets you must maintain. If your vacuum tank shows any paint damage, correct the problem immediately by applying paint to prevent accelerated deterioration. Rust is one of the main enemies you must combat.

Checkpoints for oil levels in the vacuum pump 

It is advisable to keep track of the oil levels in both the engine and the vacuum pump. Vacuum pumps generally use 10W-30 oil, while gasoline or diesel engines use 20W-50 oil. Another important checkpoint is monitoring mercury levels, which indicate vacuum calibration. According to industry standards, optimal levels should be below 18 inHg to prevent damage to the tank.

Vacuum tanks must have level sight glasses to monitor the amount of solids and semi-solids inside. These control points help prevent tank overloading and prevent residue from entering the vacuum pumps or odor removal filters, as applicable.

It is recommended to install primary and secondary traps to prevent solids and semi-solids from entering the vacuum pump when the tank is 100% full. This will protect the pumps from potential damage.

During operation, the pumps constantly release oil, which is collected by the oil pickup tube. It is important to empty this oil from the pickup tube daily and top up the oil level in the vacuum pump.

It is recommended to change the oil every 100 hours of work for gasoline or diesel engines, although working conditions and weather will also influence this recommendation.

Control points on pressure pumps 

The pressure washer pump generally requires a 12V power supply. It is recommended to connect it directly to the truck's battery or, failing that, to provide an alternate battery with sufficient current to avoid overloading the truck's main battery.