Common Grease Trap Issues
Ignoring grease trap maintenance can lead to serious plumbing problems and costly violations. Knowing the signs of trouble can help prevent emergencies and ensure your business stays compliant with health and environmental codes. Our team is trained to identify and resolve all types of grease trap issues before they escalate.
Watch for these common grease trap problems:
- Persistent odors and slow drainage
- Backups from overfilled traps (FOG should not exceed 25% of trap volume)
- Structural damage, including rusted lids or broken baffles
- Improperly sized or installed traps reducing separation efficiency
- Fines or health code violations due to missed cleaning intervals
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a grease trap?
A grease trap is a plumbing device that captures fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from wastewater before it enters the sewer system. Commonly used in commercial kitchens, a grease trap prevents sewer and drain blockages and helps maintain local code compliance.
How does a grease trap work?
A grease trap slows the flow of wastewater, allowing grease and oils to float to the top of the trap while solids settle at the bottom. The cleaner water then exits through an outlet pipe, keeping FOG out of the main sewer line.
How often should you clean a grease trap?
Grease traps should be pumped and cleaned every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and local regulations. Regular cleaning prevents backups, odors, and costly plumbing issues. Commercial kitchens may require more frequent service.
How do grease traps and interceptors work?
Grease traps and grease interceptors work by separating grease and solids from wastewater using gravity. Interceptors are larger units often installed outdoors for high-volume use. Both protect plumbing systems and help businesses comply with health and environmental codes.