A grease trap or interceptor is a plumbing device used by commercial food preparers to catch grease and other solids before they reach the sewer system. The large amount of oils produced by restaurant waste could otherwise overwhelm the treatment facility. The devices have been in use since the late 1800s and now range in size from 35 liters to more than 45,000 liters. They require little maintenance aside from grease trap cleaning, but below are some of the most common problems users encounter.

What Could Go Wrong With Your Grease Trap?

1. Sink Backups

Depending on the size of the trap and the amount of grease your kitchen produces, the grease trap might go months or a year before filling up. However, once it reaches its capacity, you might start experiencing sink backups or unpleasant odors. When this happens, it could mean the trap is full, and you need to schedule grease trap cleaning. Check that it's full, and pay attention to the mesh covering compartment crossovers. Clogged holes interfere with its ability to let wastewater through.

2. Clogged Outbound Line

Despite its efforts to remove grease and other debris from wastewater, the trap may nevertheless allow some through. Over time, this can build up in the outbound plumbing line and cause a clog. If water has no difficulty entering the trap but is not leaving it promptly, you likely have a plugged outfeed. A grease trap cleaning service can remove the clog when they pump the trap.

3. Persistent Foul Smells

As mentioned above, you may experience unpleasant odors when the trap is full. However, if the smell persists even after you've had the trap pumped, it could mean you have other issues. For instance, the gasket at the trap entry could have deteriorated to the point that it permits gases to seep into your establishment. Another possibility is that the pipes themselves have collected smelly sludge and need hydrojetting.

If your eatery or commercial kitchen needs grease trap cleaning or service, contact J & J Septic & Sewer Cleaning in Waterloo, IL. They serve clients in St. Clair, Clinton, Madison, and Monroe counties and are known for their impeccable customer care. In addition to grease trap pumping, they also specialize in septic repair, septic tank pumping, installation, excavation, and sewer maintenance. Visit their website to explore these services, or call (618) 939-3001 to make an appointment.