All restaurants and other facilities that serve food require grease traps. These devices separate fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from kitchen wastewater so it can’t enter the drainage system. If you don’t schedule regular grease trap cleanings, your device may experience the following issues.

3 Common Grease Trap Problems

1. Outgoing Line Clog

Your grease trap features a primary compartment in which FOG is separated from the wastewater, which is the outgoing line, and a secondary compartment in which the filtered wastewater enters the drainage system. When both of these compartments overflow, which causes wastewater to escape through the top of the grease trap, your outgoing line is likely clogged with FOG. Prevent this problem by checking your trap for escaped wastewater at least once a week and having your grease trap cleaned about every one to three months. 

2. Incoming Line Clog 

If your grease trap suddenly stops working, the incoming line may be clogged with FOG. This issue can also cause your kitchen’s lowest plumbing fixture, such as the floor drains, to back up with FOG, since they’re part of the same plumbing system. As with an outgoing line clog, this issue indicates you need more frequent grease trap cleanings. In addition to your grease trap, check your floor drains for FOG buildup at least once a week so you can promptly identify and treat an incoming line clog. 

3. Full Grease Trap

Infrequent cleaning of grease and scum from your plumbing system can also lead to a full grease trap. This problem causes FOG from the primary compartment to spill over into the secondary compartment. It typically leads to clogs in the incoming and outgoing lines, as well as the crossover line (the line between the primary and secondary compartments).

To check if your grease trap is full, lift the lid. A full trap will feature a cap of stiff FOG on the top, preventing you from seeing into the trap. Check it at least once a month and whenever you notice a foul odor coming from it. 

Keep your grease trap running smoothly with the help of B & B Riley Septic Service. Based in West Plains, MO, the fully licensed and insured team offers comprehensive grease trap cleanings and septic services. With over 12 years of experience, they’ll determine the source of your grease trap issues and resolve them with precision and care. Visit them online to learn more about their offerings, and call (417) 256-5062 to schedule an appointment.