Since restaurants and commercial kitchens flush cooking oils down drains, grease traps are essential for preventing plumbing blockages. These devices filter out the liquid and solid fats so that water may smoothly enter the municipal supply. Every so often, you’ll need grease trap cleaning to avoid potentially severe clogs. Below are a handful of frequently asked questions about this service.

4 FAQ About Grease Trap Cleaning

How often should I schedule it?

Though the frequency that you schedule grease trap cleaning may vary, most people follow the one-fourths rule. When about 25% of your tank fills with fats, oils, greases, and solids (FOGS), book a cleaning appointment. Another reliable method is to schedule cleanings every one to three months, depending on usage.

What are the different types of cleaning?

There are two methods of grease trap cleaning—pump and return, and dry pump. In the former, your contractor will remove the FOGS but leave the water in the grease trap. In the latter, your contractor will remove both FOGS and water from the grease trap. Restaurants and commercial kitchens tend to prefer the pump and return method because dry tanks produce unpleasant odors.

What are the benefits of regular cleaning?

Grease trap cleaning prevents clogs in your main sewage line, which keeps you from dealing with slow drains, backups, and flooding. Regular cleaning also prevents your tank from overflowing and causing you to have to pay fines to the city.

How can I maintain my grease trap?

Schedule an inspection of your grease trap about once per year to check for signs of deterioration. Don’t pour cooking oils and fats directly down your drains, as doing so will cause your grease trap to fill too rapidly. Use drain covers to prevent solids from entering your plumbing and clogging the trap.

The next time you need grease trap cleaning, get in touch with Magic Men Sewer and Drain Cleaning. These drainage contractors also offer water jetting and line inspections to clients throughout Cedar Rapids, IA. Call (319) 721-4442 to set up an appointment for commercial or residential drain cleaning, and visit them online to learn more about how they can keep your sewer lines clear.