Pit cleaning refers to the comprehensive servicing of containment pits—including car wash pits, maintenance pits, sump pits, trench pits, and degreaser pits—where solids, liquids, oils, or sludge accumulate over time.
ACE Environmental offers expert cleaning, removal, disposal, and restoration services for pits of all sizes and industries, ensuring environmental compliance and operational safety.
The Pit Cleaning Process
Comprehensive Assessment & Access Planning
We evaluate the structure (pit type, depth, access), material buildup (sludge, oil, solids), and access challenges to plan an efficient cleaning approach, whether it’s sump pump cleaning, industrial tank cleaning, or a wide range of other pit jobs.
Vacuum-Assisted Removal
Our high-capacity vacuum trucks safely extract liquids, sludge, and solids—even oil-contaminated waste—directly into enclosed tanks, reducing worker exposure.
Media & Residue Cleaning
We apply dewatering, hot-water rinsing, or suitable cleaning chemicals to remove stubborn residues effectively (without damaging the pit surface).
Safe Material Handling & Transport
Separated waste streams (oil-water, solids, wash water) are transported to licensed disposal/recycling facilities per local, state, and EPA guidelines.
Documentation Deliverables
You receive a complete service report: volume removed, material summaries, disposal certificates, and future maintenance suggestions.
When Is Pit Cleaning Required?
This job is essential is essential in various contexts:
- Maintenance pits in automotive, heavy‑equipment, and industrial facilities
- Car wash retention pits and grease traps
- Sump pump cleaning, trench pit cleaning, or industrial tank cleaning, typically used in plant and warehouse operations
- Degreaser or chemical pits in manufacturing or maintenance areas
- Oil, coolant, and sediment‑laden pits in industrial or commercial settings
Over time, these pits collect sludge, oil sheen, solids, and organic residues. Without regular cleaning, they pose overflow, environmental, and compliance risks.
Why Choose ACE?
- Safety & Compliance Focus
We adhere to all OSHA/MSHA standards and environmental regulations while managing liquid, oil, and sludge disposal safely. - Customized Solutions for Any Industry
Whether it’s auto maintenance, manufacturing, car wash operations, or industrial processing, we tailor our strategy to your specific needs. - Efficient Fleet & Trained Team
Our vacuum truck fleet and certified technicians perform fast, thorough cleaning while minimizing facility disruption. The process is faster and cleaner than traditional manual methods. - Full-Service Disposal & Documentation
Post-cleaning, we provide disposal manifests and service reports—ideal for inspections, audits, or regulatory records.
Benefits of Using ACE’s Services
- Operational Continuity & Safety
Quick cleaning turnaround keeps pits functional and lowers contamination hazards. - Environmental Responsibility
Proper handling of oil, grease, and contaminated sludge helps facilities remain compliant and eco-conscious. - Cost Savings
Regular maintenance prevents hazardous buildup that can lead to fines or unplanned shutdowns. - Audit-Ready Records
Reporting and manifests support compliance with MS4, EPA, or facility inspection requirements. - Local Expertise & Fast Response
Serving Maryland, the District of Columbia, Virginia, Pennsylvania, West Virginia & Delaware, our localized teams are ready for both routine cleaning and emergencies.
When to Schedule Pit Cleaning
Consider ACE’s services when:
- Pits exhibit visible oil sheen, sludge, or foul odors
- Routine preventive maintenance programs require documentation
- Inspection reports note pit failures or overflow risks
- Switching to new water disposal or recycling systems
- Emergency spills or overflows occur in pit systems
ACE IS YOUR ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR ENVIRONMENTAL WASTE MANAGEMENT.
Check out our newest services sheet to see all that we can offer our clients.
