Grease, fats, and oils harden in pipes and create clogs. To protect the municipal sewage system, most communities require commercial kitchens to use a grease trap that removes these substances before they enter the sewer. If you’re a restaurant owner, learn more below about these devices and why regular grease trap cleaning and maintenance are key for your kitchen. 

A Primer on Grease Traps

How Grease Traps Work

The grease trap is a waterproof container that sits between the sewer drain and the kitchen sink or dishwasher. Gray water from your triple basin sink or appliance enters the trap carrying fats, oils, grease (FOG), and food particles. The first three substances are lighter than water, so they float to the top, while the food particles sink to the bottom. An exit pipe on the opposite side of the trap – situated below the grease level, but above the layer of food particles – allows the water to escape while trapping the FOG and food waste. While it won’t catch every single particle, the trap effectively prevents a substantial portion of the waste that might clog a sewer from entering.

Why Is Grease Trap Cleaning Necessary?

Over time, the layer of food particles and the layer of FOG will accumulate to the point that there's little separation between them. The water exiting the trap thus starts pulling grease and food matter into the sewer pipe. These particles clog both in the exit pipe and at points downstream, resulting in overflow and backflow. Regular grease trap cleaning is essential to prevent unhygienic messes that necessitate costly closures and sanitizing. If you own a commercial kitchen, commit to scheduling cleanings at least every three months, or even more frequently if you run an especially busy, high-volume establishment. 

Routine grease trap cleaning is crucial to the smooth operation of your restaurant. To schedule service, contact the experts at Holmen Pumping Service in Holmen, WI. This family-owned and -operated company has been serving West Central Wisconsin for more than 30 years. They also perform commercial and residential plumbing work and septic inspections. Visit their website to submit an information request form or call (608) 526-3865 to schedule service.