Complete Guide for Maintaining Grease Traps in Food Service Kitchens

As a grocery store owner, you understand the importance of properly servicing the grease trap. While eliminating the accumulation of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) is a challenging task, it is necessary and must be done periodically. Grease traps serve an vital function, preventing FOG from being washed down the drain. If FOG is washed down the drain, it can clog the plumbing and sewer systems and harm the natural environment. Commercial kitchens are required to have grease traps to prevent this, and businesses may be subject to fines for non-compliance.

Steps for Cleaning a Grease Trap

1. Identify the Grease Trap

Grease traps are typically located either indoors or outdoors. Outdoor traps can often be identified by their manhole covering or septic tank-like appearance. When indoor, grease traps are commonly located in the basement (directly below the kitchen), under the kitchen sink, or beneath a metal covering. Once you find the grease trap, determine its capacity. Knowing the size helps determine if you need professional equipment for cleaning or if it's small enough for in-house staff to clean. Grease traps between 500 to 2500 gallons require professional tools and experience, while smaller ones can typically be cleaned by qualified restaurant personnel.

2. Work with Lukewarm Water

Using cold water helps FOG to separate to the top. Allow ten minutes for the water from the dishwasher or sink to settle down before beginning. Carefully pry the grease trap cover with a crowbar. Be cautious, as the seal can be easily damaged. If the cover is bolted, you may need a wrench. Plastic grease trap covers are quicker to handle, as they lift off without difficulty. After removing the cover, you'll likely encounter a two-inch layer of sludge. Use a scoop to extract the floating grease. Once the FOG is removed, residual water and food particles will remain. A powerful shop vac is essential to remove these leftovers. Be sure the sinks and dishwashers are not in use to avoid the trap overflowing while you work.

3. Scrape the Grease Trap

The next step is to clean the sides, baffles, and lid of the grease trap. A shop vacuum is necessary to remove any stubborn grease stuck in the corners. For a more complete clean, use a scrubber or steel wool, detergent, and slightly warm water. Carefully scrub the interior and exterior, and flush the soap and debris out with fresh water. Once done, you should have a fresh grease trap. Perform this cleaning every four to six weeks to keep it in good condition.

4. Inspect for Blockages

Once the trap is cleaned, it is essential to check the drain for obstructions. Run a gallon of clean water from the kitchen sink to ensure the water flows smoothly without any resistance. If there is, you may need to call a licensed plumber to clear the obstruction. Once the area is clear, replace the lid and baffle to close the trap properly.

5. Properly Dispose of the FOG

Disposing of the collected fats, oils, and grease (FOG) should be done in a responsible manner. For smaller amounts, use double-lined garbage bags to throw out the FOG in the local dumpster. A trick is to mix the FOG with kitty litter to make it easier to manage. For large quantities of grease trap sludge, it’s best to contact a grease trap service for proper disposal.

Grease Trap Cleaning by Meridianville Plumbing Services

If you prefer professional help with your grease trap cleaning, trust the experts at Meridianville Plumbing Services. We specialize in grease trap maintenance for a wide variety of food establishments, including schools, hospitals, airports, and more. Our skilled technicians will perform comprehensive cleanings and repairs as needed, using the proper tools and techniques for hard-to-reach areas. We provide comprehensive reports to help you manage your cleaning schedule and ensure your business is up-to-date with local grease trap regulations. At Meridianville Plumbing Services, we ensure all grease trap waste is removed in accordance with municipal laws, keeping your business running smoothly and in compliance.

With over 70 years of service, Meridianville Plumbing Services is ready to address any grease trap issues swiftly. Trust us for all your grease trap maintenance needs and maintain your business's operations with expert service.

Give us a call now at (888) 860-0649 to request a free in-home estimate.