Grease traps prevent oils and solids from entering a restaurant’s wastewater disposal system, and they often need grease trap cleaning every one to three months. Otherwise, they can become clogged with fats, oils, and grease (FOGs), causing the sewer line to back up. If you’ve experienced any of the warning signs below, it needs to be cleaned.

How to Know If the Grease Trap Needs Maintenance

1. It’s Past Allowable Capacity

Grease is considered a pollutant that poses a risk to public health and safety, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates that grease traps be cleaned when they reach ¼ full. Failing to comply will result in fines or closure.

Without grease trap cleaning, the FOGs will clog the sewer lines, which can cause the restaurant’s wastewater to overflow. The waste can spread into the kitchen, contaminating your eatery’s food and water.

2. There’s a Foul Odor

If there’s a lingering,  offensive scent in the kitchen that can’t be explained, inspect the grease trap. FOGs solidify and rot over time, and the decay will emit a terrible odor. Schedule grease trap cleaning immediately before the smell reaches the restaurant’s dining area and turns guests away.

3. You’re Experiencing Drainage Problems

Drains will back up and empty slowly if the grease trap is dirty or full. When grease cools, it solidifies in the pipes and prevents water from passing through the plumbing system. The poor draining will slow essential kitchen tasks, such as dishwashing or washing produce, hindering your team’s performance.

If you’ve noticed any of these red flags in your eatery’s kitchen, turn to Around The Clock Pumping in Anchorage, AK. These licensed professionals have provided restaurant owners with reliable grease trap cleanings for over 10 years. They’re even available 24-hours to provide immediate support so that late-night diners don’t notice an issue, and your busy cooks never miss a beat. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (907) 345-9126.