Hydroexcavation units are indispensable tools in the construction and utility sectors. They use high-pressure water to break up soil and a vacuum to remove the debris, thereby enabling precise, controlled excavation. Whether you're working on installations, maintenance or complex construction projects, choosing the right hydroexcavation unit is crucial for efficiency and safety. Here are some noteworthy options in the industry:

GapVax VHX Series
The GapVax VHX Series hydrovac is designed for optimal weight distribution, improved safety features and improved performance. The debris body is 7.5 cubic yards, offering a 15,000-pound payload. The low profile (12 feet, 2 inches) makes it suitable for all-around hydroexcavation projects. The vacuum system with single mode wet/dry filtration is quiet, reliable and simple, according to the maker. It includes a 4,000-cfm positive displacement blower, 600-hp transfer case with air-shift engagement and ultra-quiet air injection, and discharge silencers. This filtration design includes a top-loading debris tank, 14-inch stainless steel float-ball shut-off, efficient centrifugal cyclone separators and long-lasting filter bags. It is equipped with a 12-gpm, 3,000-psi water system with optional 200-cfm air compressor system. A full-tilting debris body, over 45-degree dump angle and full-opening tailgate promote fast unloading and easy cleanout. The 8-inch telescoping VHX boom offers a 22-foot reach with 15-degree downward pivot. 888-442-7829; www.gapvax.com

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HotJet USA Vac’N Jet Series
The HotJet USA Vac’n Jet Series of vacuum trailer jetters are compact and engineered to haul the equipment and spoils, and to clean valve boxes, storm drains, perform hydroexcavation and/or clean drain/sewer lines. They feature hot and/or cold water operation with a choice of engine options ranging from 23 to 70 hp and gas or diesel operation. They are equipped with premium triplex pumps, a 500-gallon spoils tank, up to 440-gallon water tanks, Gardner/Denver vac/blowers, a 4-ton hydraulic dump and a dual filter centri-clean filter system. They can also be custom-engineered and designed to meet specifications. 800-624-8186; www.hotjetusa.com

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Rival Hydrovac T7 Tandem and T10
The T7 Tandem from Rival Hydrovac was designed primarily to be loaded with debris and drive within legislated road limits with most types of debris on board. The unit comes standard with a scale that reads real-time weights in the cab and on the wireless remote. The T10 is built with the same features and operating system, but with larger capacities and components. It is for both utility and industrial work. It is available in three chassis layouts to meet weight restrictions in a given area. An air compressor option allows for excavating with air when required, while a truck-mounted coring system allows for removal of hard surfaces prior to non-destructive excavating. 403-550-7997; www.rivalhydrovac.com

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Transway Systems Terra-Vex HV65
The Transway Systems Terra-Vex HV65 is a single-operator unit capable of performing all functions from a single remote control. The blower, water tank, boiler, jetter system and wands are housed in an insulated, sound-dampening enclosure with thermostat-controlled heater. It includes large, winter-friendly roll-up doors with ample storage. An onboard air compressor is available. 800-263-4508; www.transwaysystems.com

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Vac-Con Mudslinger MS800
The Mudslinger MS800 trailer-mounted hydrovac from Vac-Con is designed to provide the same power, suction and capacity of a truck hydroexcavator on a portable, pull-behind trailer. It includes the choice of Tier 4 diesel or gas engine options providing up to 1,190 cfm and 16 inches Hg with a PD blower and 325 gallons of water. It has an 845-gallon debris tank and a 9-foot boom with 24 inches of hydraulic extension provides a full range of motion. It is designed to be a standalone unit, but can also provide support to construction, HDD and public utility fleets. A variety of applications includes daylighting, potholing, culvert and manhole cleaning and utility locating. 904-284-4200; www.vac-con.com

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Vacall AllExcavate and AllExcavate2 
Vacall AllExcavate and AllExcavate2 machines feature standard intelligent controls and easy start-up operation. Both models are designed to efficiently remove dirt around utility lines and foundations. Water pumps generate 24.5 to 120 gpm and pressures to 3,000 psi. The AE2 model adds air excavation at 185 cfm and dual psi of 110 and 150. Water system, wand, control panel, tools and worker apparel are protected in a heated compartment. An AllSmartFlow CAN bus control system features a programmable LCD display that monitors engine, water flow, air pressure and vacuum performance for precise boom and reel adjustments. Aluminum water tanks with lifetime warranty carry 1,000 to 1,300 gallons. Galvanized debris tanks have a supreme finish, and are available with 8-, 10- and 13-cubic-yard capacities. They use one engine to power the chassis and excavation functions, designed to reduce service and operation costs. 800-382-8302; www.vacall.com