Allvac® AV3500 vs AV7000H: Which Hydrovac Truck Is Right for Your Business?

What are you going for: double the size, or double the manoeuvrability? That's the real question when choosing between two of Waimea's most popular hydrovac trucks, the Allvac® AV7000H   and the Allvac® AV3500.

The AV7000H is one of our biggest units, with an impressive 7000 litre capacity, a mighty payload, and a 6 inch overhead suction boom for smooth operation. The AV3500 has half the tank capacity, but makes up for it with double the manoeuvrability, a smaller footprint, and quiet operation.

So How Do You Choose?

It comes down to what kind of work you need your hydrovac truck to do. Both are more than just hydro excavation trucks, capable of a wide range of jobs, but each shines in different conditions.

The AV7000H has the edge for maximising vacuum truck payload. Its 7000 litre tank and broader footprint carry up to 8000kg, ideal for large-scale jobs where onsite dumping isn't an option. It also runs a USA-made tri-lobe blower for high suction efficiency, though it requires a Class 4 licence to operate.

The AV3500 can't match that payload (up to 4000kg), but its compact design is built for tight or congested worksites, including under low roof canopies. It can also function as a liquid waste unit, adding versatility for smaller operations like sump and wash bay cleaning where you can dump onsite.

Licensing, Running Costs, and Noise

The AV3500 only needs a Class 2 licence, compared to a Class 4 for the AV7000H, opening up a wider pool of drivers. Its smaller footprint also means lower running costs and less traffic management on site, which adds up to a stronger ROI for growing businesses.

Noise is another point of difference. The AV3500's Danish-made liquid ring pump runs quieter than the AV7000H's tri-lobe blower, making it a better fit for night work or noise-sensitive sites. Both units can be operated by one person.

Which One Is Right for You?

There's no right or wrong answer, it depends on the job. Need maximum payload and tank capacity for large-scale work? The AV7000H is the powerhouse. Working tighter sites and want lower running costs, simpler licensing, and quieter operation? The AV3500 is hard to beat.

Weighing up what hydrovac is right for your fleet? Contact Maska Lewis today to talk about what you need.