When it comes to excavation, contractors often use big earthmovers with giant buckets. While that’s one way to do it, it’s not the only way to remove dirt and debris. Hydro excavation, also known as hydrovac or vacX, uses pressurized water to loosen and cut soil and a powerful vacuum to remove soil and materials in a non-destructive digging method.

According to TRUVAC, when it comes to hydro excavation:

Uses Vary
Hydro excavation has many applications, from utility potholing and daylighting to slot trenching and emergency utility work. If dirt is involved, hydro excavation can be used. When it comes to replacing utility poles, installing fences, or inspecting water lines for lead, hydro excavation is an option.

Safety Increases
The main benefit of hydro excavation is safety. If you’re following the Gas Technology Institute’s best practices for hydro excavation, the risks are all but eliminated. Because hydro excavation uses pressurized water instead of blindly sticking a sharp metal object in the ground under pressure, there is minimal risk of damaging buried utilities.

Cold Temperatures, No Problem
When equipped with a water heater, a hydro excavator can cut easily through frozen soil, even in the most extreme temperatures.

Excavate From a Distance
Because not all work is conveniently located, hydro excavation can be performed remotely. For instance, using remote hose, the truck can be parked on the street while work is performed in a basement or elevator shaft inside a building.

Precision of a Surgeon
Since the operator can put the digging lance directly where the hole is needed, no excess soil needs to be removed. Operators of hydro excavators are the surgeons of the dirt world, trained to perform work as efficiently and safely as possible.

For a comprehensive guide to hydro excavation, visit TRUVAC.com.