Grease traps are an essential part of a restaurant’s wastewater system because they trap fats, oils, and grease. These substances can cause blockages in the drains and sewer lines, leading to costly repairs. In addition, fats, oils, and grease can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly. That’s why restaurants need to have their grease traps cleaned regularly. Keep reading to find out more about grease trap cleaning.
What is a grease trap?
A grease trap is a device used to intercept greasy wastewater from a kitchen before entering the municipal sewer system. The trap works by catching the grease in the wastewater before flowing down the pipe. The grease then floats to the surface, which can be skimmed off and disposed of properly.
There are a few different grease traps available, but the most common is the in-line trap. This trap is installed between the commercial kitchen sink and the drainage system. It’s a small container that is filled with a special grease-fighting liquid. The liquid traps the grease and food particles, and the trapped material is then removed and disposed of regularly.
Grease traps are essential because they help keep the municipal sewers from becoming clogged with grease. When grease enters the sewer system, it can form a thick, sticky substance that can clog the pipes. This can cause the sewer system to back up, leading to flooding and other problems.
Grease traps also help to protect the environment. When grease enters the sewer system, it can often end up in waterways, where it can harm aquatic life.
Why should I have my grease trap cleaned regularly?
A grease trap is an integral part of a commercial kitchen’s plumbing system. The trap catches the fats, oils, and greases produced in the kitchen. If these substances are allowed to build up, they can cause severe problems in the plumbing system. You should have your grease trap regularly inspected by a professional plumber. This will help ensure that your plumbing runs smoothly and that no potential problems are looming on the horizon.
A clogged trap can lead to backups and sewage spills. It can also damage the equipment in the kitchen. Professional and regular cleaning is necessary to ensure that the grease trap functions correctly and prevents clogs. The professional cleaning also removes built-up grease and debris, which can cause foul odors and attract pests.
How can I tell if my grease trap needs to be cleaned?
Cleaning a grease trap is a necessary part of restaurant maintenance. How often you need to clean your grease trap will depend on how often your kitchen produces greasy wastewater. Generally, it’s good to clean your grease trap at least once a month.
The National Restaurant Association reports that the cost of not cleaning a grease trap can be high. The bacteria present in the grease can create a health hazard. The cost of professional cleaning services varies depending on the size of the trap and the amount of buildup. However, it’s generally less expensive than dealing with the consequences of not cleaning the trap regularly.
In addition to causing backups and overflows, fats, oils, and grease can also contaminate waterways, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Cleaning the trap is a simple way to protect your business from these problems and help protect the environment.
Grease traps are a vital part of keeping your commercial kitchen running smoothly. They help to prevent clogged drainage pipes and costly repairs. If you are in the market for a new grease trap or need to have your existing trap serviced, contact a reputable plumbing contractor.
