What Is Trench or Pit Pumping?
Is Your Car Wash in the Trenches?
Getting into the car wash business and wondering about the inner workings? Or maybe you already own one and want to know more? While there are many moving parts to a car wash, what you want to understand the most is where the wastewater is going.
Car after car, gallons of water are used to clean off dirt, grime and cleaning products. This waste has to go somewhere after it’s been used.
A trench or car wash pit is where all of the wastewater flows into. The water goes in and is filtered to separate the debris from the water. Debris is collected and forms a sludge like substance. This is then disposed of in the car wash owner’s chosen cleaning process.
Where Are Trenches or Car Wash Pits?
Trenches or car wash pits are typically located beneath a car wash bay. There is usually a grate within the slightly slanted floor catching the water as it drains under a car. Beneath the grate is where you’ll find the trench or pit.
The grate is usually easily removed to allow for easy access for those cleaning their wastewater by-product.
What Is Trench or Pit Pumping?
This is a process used to clean out the trenches or car wash pits that collect the wastewater for disposal. Some businesses will just scoop out the by-product with shovels and other tools—but pumping it out is the better method.
Trench or pit pumping involves a pump system hooked up to a truck or container that holds the waste. The system attached to the truck or container leads to the trench or pit for direct access. The sludge is then pumped into the truck or container to be properly disposed of. When done correctly, it can be completed in a fast and environmentally-friendly way.
Why Cleaning Trenches or Pits Is Important
Car wash wastewater can be hazardous and produces sludge that isn’t easy to clean up. It’s important to clean your trenches or car wash pits regularly for a couple of reasons:
Stop Your Pits From Backing Up
When the sludge collects over time and doesn’t get cleaned, it will eventually back up. Without regular drainage, the car wash pit will slowly become more and more inefficient leading to excess wastewater that is unsightly and unproductive.
Your business will no longer function correctly and your customers will dwindle as you race to keep up with their needs.
Prevent Environmental Issues
Each state has its own car wash waste regulations for a good reason. Car washes contain a number of pollutants by the nature of their business, such as:
- Oil and Grease
- Chlorine, Ammonia, Phosphorous, etc.
- Toxic Metals and Other Manmade Compounds
When not properly handled and disposed of, these toxins can make their way into the environment. You risk affecting wildlife and surrounding businesses or neighborhoods.
Getting your trenches or pits cleaned is an added bonus for business and your community.
Clean Your Car Wash Pits Fast with Pit Crew
Don’t let your pits pile up with a pudgent problem.
If you’re planning on opening your car wash or already have and aren’t sure where to turn for car wash pit cleaning, Pit Crew can help.
Save time and worry less through a refined eco-friendly process backed by the premier choice in car wash cleaning.
Based in Richmond, VA, quality and affordable waste removal procedures are readily available for car wash businesses up and down the East Coast.
Call us today to get started.
