Restaurants and other commercial facilities with kitchens are required to install grease traps. Without it, problems within the plumbing system could easily arise and slow down operations entirely. The professionals at Chris Mote’s Pumping Service in Cleveland, GA, are here to explain the importance of the device and how it benefits your kitchen.

What You Should Know About Grease Traps

What Is a Grease Trap?

Sometimes referred to as grease interceptors, grease traps are fitted in the drain or waste pipe. They’re strategically positioned to prevent waste such as fats, oils, and grease (commonly referred to as FOG) from flowing down the drain and into the plumbing system, where it might otherwise cause a severe blockage. That could lead to restricted water flow and produce strong, unpleasant odors in the facility.

How Does It Work?

As waste flows through the inlet pipe from the drain, it separates into distinct sections within the grease trap’s tank—lightweight FOG floats to the top, solid particles settle at the bottom, and water and other liquids continue safely into the sewer. At this stage, the baffles in the trap capture the FOG resting on the surface to prevent it from traveling deeper into the sewage system.

How Is It Maintained?

To maintain a healthy plumbing system and ensure that the trap works effectively, it’s important to schedule regular grease trap pumping. If the waste isn’t periodically pumped, the trap loses its efficiency because it runs out of room to properly separate FOG and other waste.

Eventually, the buildup thickens into a troublesome blockage that can cause severe issues with your kitchen’s plumbing. The average kitchen should schedule pumping at least once every three months; in busier facilities, you may need to arrange appointments more frequently. It’s best to commit to a schedule to avoid possible downtime or health inspection fees.

An efficient kitchen is heavily dependent on a properly functioning grease trap. You can trust the licensed and experienced team at Chris Mote’s Pumping Service to resolve your concerns so that you can resume normal activity as soon as possible. The company focuses on providing timely service, and their goal is to maintain an excellent working relationship with you, so the plumbing system stays in pristine condition. Visit their website to learn more about scheduling grease trap pumping or call them at (770) 530-2034.