SIMPLE TIPS FOR GREASE TRAP MAINTENANCE

Grease traps are a necessary component in a healthy waste water system and a hygienic food establishment. With proper maintenance and servicing, they can offer years of convenient operation. Make regular checks, proper waste disposal and scheduled service part of your upkeep plan for the best results.

The easiest way to prolong the life of your trap and to increase the length of time necessary between service calls is to train your staff to dispose of solid waste and oils properly. Removing scraps and food particles prior to washing keeps the trap free of debris and prevents it from filling prematurely.

Many municipalities have codes that dictate the maximum amount of time that can pass between professional cleaning visits. While you certainly should adhere to these guidelines, many establishments actually require more frequent service to maintain a healthy oil-to-water ratio. Once the volume of grease reaches 25 percent of the total, service is necessary. Scheduling timely visits helps you avoid having to replace your trap prematurely.

Many quick fix methods can actually damage your grease trap or cause expensive sewage backups. While biological agents will break up grease and emulsify it, this increases the chances that it will adhere to your downstream sewage pipes, which can cause slow drainage and blockages. You should also avoid pouring boiling water through your trap, which flushes grease past the trap where it can adhere to the surface of your pipes. Serious problems are costly to repair and often cause unwanted emergencies for restaurant owners.