Grease traps are vital in the restaurant industry, as they prevent fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from clogging pipes and entering municipal sewer lines. If you just opened a restaurant or had one of these systems installed, here are answers to a few questions you may have.

FAQ About Grease Traps

How does a grease trap work?

Traps are usually connected to the dishwasher or sink, and as the wastewater enters the trap, fats, oils, and grease rise to the top of the water. The FOG is trapped, and remaining water goes to the municipal sewer lines.

Do I need a grease trap?

Every restaurant should have one. FOG hardens as it cools, and it will eventually clog water lines and result in wastewater overflow in your sinks, toilets, and plumbing fixtures. It is possible to cause blockages in municipal drains as well, which could result in fines if the city identifies your restaurant as the cause.

Why do they need cleaning?

As grease traps accumulate FOG, they may clog sinks and dishwashers. If backups occur, they’re not only a hassle to clean up and an extra expense, but they’re hazardous to your customers. A professional who has the right equipment and the means to dump the FOG properly should clean the system regularly. In Branson, MO, you should clean the trap every 90 days or when it’s 25% full.

What are some symptoms of a full grease trap?

The trap is connected to the main water line. If it gets full, it affects the pressure through the rest of the restaurant. You may notice the toilet water level is low or sinks are draining slowly. The smell of grease and oils sitting for a prolonged period will also cause an odor in the kitchen and, eventually, dining area.

If you need a grease trap installed, repaired, or cleaned, turn to the professionals at S & S Pumping. With over 15 years of experience in the Greater Branson Tri-Lakes area, the locally owned company strives for quick response times and thorough work. In emergencies, they also offer 24-hour service. Call (417) 546-2390 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about services.