ABOUT GREASE TRAPS

Grease Trap Maintenance (Commercial) 

Keep your commercial kitchen running smoothly with professional grease trap maintenance. We provide thorough cleaning, inspection, and repair for grease traps in restaurants and other businesses—helping you stay compliant and prevent costly backups or shutdowns. 

Reliable, prompt service from a team that understands commercial plumbing.

How Does a Grease Trap Work?

A grease trap works by slowing down the flow of wastewater, allowing grease and oil to float to the surface, where they can be separated from the water and collected. This process helps to prevent grease build-up in your pipes, which can lead to serious plumbing issues and costly repairs. There are different types of grease traps, each with its own unique design and function: 

• Passive Hydromechanical Grease Traps: 

These are the most common type for residential and small commercial settings. They rely on gravity to separate the grease and oil from the wastewater. As wastewater enters the trap, the grease rises to the top while the water sinks to the bottom, where it flows out through a separate pipe.

• Gravity Grease Traps:

Typically used for larger commercial settings, these systems are larger and rely on gravity to separate heavier solids from the grease. They use larger tanks and are often installed outside the building to handle a higher volume of waste.

• Automatic Grease Traps:

These more advanced systems use mechanical pumps or other mechanisms to automatically remove grease from the trap, making them ideal for high-volume commercial kitchens. They are designed to require less manual maintenance, improving convenience and efficiency. 

Each type of grease trap serves an important function, and selecting the right one depends on your specific needs. If you’re unsure which type is best for your property, Great Plumbing Service is here to help. We provide expert guidance and professional installation, maintenance, and repair services for grease traps in Cypress, TX, and nearby areas. 

Early Warning Signs of Grease Trap Problems 

Grease traps are vital for keeping your plumbing system free of grease build-ups that can lead to costly repairs. However, just like any system, they can encounter issues that may need prompt attention. Recognizing the early warning signs of grease trap problems will help you avoid bigger plumbing issues and keep your system functioning efficiently. Below are some common indicators to watch for:

• Slow Drainage:

 If you notice that wastewater is draining slowly from sinks or other drains, this could indicate a grease trap issue. Grease buildup can clog the trap or the pipes leading to it, causing blockages that restrict water flow. A professional plumber can clear the clog and ensure proper drainage. 

• Unpleasant Odors:

A foul smell in your kitchen or bathroom is often a sign that your grease trap is full or malfunctioning. Grease, oil, and food particles can build up in the trap and begin to emit an unpleasant odor. Cleaning the trap and ensuring it’s functioning properly can eliminate these smells.

• Frequent Plumbing Problems:

If you are experiencing frequent clogging, back-ups, or slow drainage in your plumbing system, it might be linked to a grease trap issue. Grease traps that are not regularly cleaned or are improperly sized can lead to recurrent blockages. Regular maintenance will help prevent these recurring issues. 

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to address them quickly before they lead to more significant plumbing issues. Great Plumbing Service specializes in grease trap repairs and maintenance, ensuring your system runs smoothly. 

Step-by-Step Grease Trap Maintenance Guide

Regular maintenance of your grease trap is essential to ensure its proper functioning and prevent costly plumbing problems down the road. Proper upkeep will not only keep your system running efficiently but also minimize the risk of clogs and unpleasant odors. Below is a step-by-step guide to maintaining your grease trap:

• Step 1: Assess Frequency of Cleaning

The frequency of cleaning your grease trap depends on how often it is used. For commercial kitchens, it’s recommended to clean the trap every 1 to 3 months, while residential units may only need cleaning every 6 months. High-volume kitchens may require more frequent cleaning to avoid grease buildup.

• Step 2: Clean the Trap

Turn off all water sources leading to the trap before starting. Remove the cover, and using a scoop, remove the grease, oils, and solids that have accumulated at the top of the trap. Be sure to dispose of the waste properly, as improper disposal can cause environmental harm. 

• Step 3: Clean the Interior

Once the grease and debris are removed, scrub the interior of the grease trap using a stiff brush. This will help remove any residual grease and prevent buildup from accumulating. You can use a degreaser designed for grease traps to help break down stubborn grease.

• Step 4: Inspect for Damage

During the cleaning process, inspect the grease trap for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks. If you notice any issues, it’s important to call a professional plumber immediately to repair or replace the trap before it leads to bigger problems.

• Step 5: Preventive Tips for Minimizing Grease Accumulation

To reduce the frequency of cleaning, consider installing a grease interceptor or using grease-reducing agents. Additionally, avoid pouring large amounts of grease, oil, or food waste down your drains, as these can quickly overwhelm your grease trap.