How To Clean Grease Traps For Restaurants: Guide

Last Updated on September 15, 2024 by Shari Mason

Restaurants **really rely** on grease traps for their plumbing. These traps **are crucial** for gathering and stopping fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from blocking drains and causing environmental problems.

As a home cook and food blogger, I’ve encountered grease trap maintenance challenges.

In this guide, I’ll share my expertise on how to clean grease traps effectively. 

By following these simple steps and incorporating them into your restaurant’s routine, you can maintain a clean and functional grease trap, ensuring a smooth operation and upholding health and safety standards.

Steps On How To Clean Grease Traps For Restaurants

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools

“As a restaurant operator, you naturally focus on crafting delicious meals. However, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of your grease trap, where the waste ends up. Neglecting this essential part can lead to serious issues,” shares George Hull, owner of Septic Tank Cleaning Langley BC, a trusted vacuum truck and septic system service provider for residential and commercial customers in the Greater Vancouver area.

With his extensive hands-on knowledge, Hull’s advice on sanitation maintenance has become invaluable to many in the food service sector.

Before diving into the cleaning process, ensure you have all the essential tools.

You’ll need protective gloves, a bucket or container to collect the grease, a long-handled brush or scraper, and a grease trap cleaner or a mixture of hot water and degreaser [1].

But how do you dispose of hamburger grease?

Step 2: Turn off the Water Flow

Begin cleaning by turning off the water supply to the sink the grease trap serves. This prevents the trap from filling with water during cleaning, making the process more manageable and efficient.

Step 3: Access the Grease Trap

Locate the access lid or cover for the grease trap. Most grease traps are near the sink or dishwasher. Carefully remove the lid to expose the trap.

“The objective of cleaning is not just to clean, but to feel happiness living within that environment. “

– Marie Kondo, Japanese Consultant

Step 4: Remove Solid Grease

Remove any solidified grease and debris from the trap using a long-handled brush or scraper. This step is essential to prevent clogs and ensure optimal performance.

Find out what to do with grease from ground beef here.

Step 5: Scoop Out the Grease

Put on your protective gloves and use a scoop or spoon to transfer the collected grease and FOG into the bucket or container. Properly dispose of this waste, following your local regulations.

Step 6: Clean the Trap

With the solid grease removed, it’s time to clean the grease trap thoroughly. You can use a commercial grease trap cleaner following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Alternatively, a mixture of hot water and a degreaser can be effective. Pour the cleaning solution down the trap and let it sit for the recommended duration to break down any remaining residue.

Step 7: Rinse and Reassemble

After the cleaning agent has done its job, flush the trap with hot water to wash away any loosened grease and cleaning solution. Once the trap is clean, reassemble the access lid or cover it securely.

Step 8: Regular Maintenance

Consistent maintenance is crucial to keeping your grease trap in top condition. Establish a cleaning schedule based on your restaurant’s size and cooking volume.

Regularly monitor the trap’s condition and clean it accordingly to prevent clogs and ensure optimal performance.

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Why is Cleaning Grease Traps Important for Restaurants?

Regular cleaning prevents drain clogs by capturing fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from wastewater, ensuring smooth water flow and preventing unpleasant odors and backups. 

Moreover, it demonstrates a commitment to compliance with strict health codes, safeguarding the health of patrons and staff. 

But what are the requirements for a commercial kitchen?

How Often Should Restaurants Clean Their Grease Traps?

While the cleaning interval may vary based on the restaurant’s size, cooking volume, and local regulations, a general guideline is to clean grease traps [2] at least every three months. 

However, high-traffic establishments or those with heavy FOG production may necessitate more frequent cleanings, possibly every month.

Conversely, smaller restaurants with minimal FOG accumulation can extend the interval to six months. 

Read: How Outdoor Restaurants Keep Flies Away

How Can Restaurants Prevent Grease Trap Clogs in the First Place?

Train staff to scrape food scraps into the trash before washing dishes, avoiding the disposal of oil and grease down the drain.

Installing sink strainers is another practical step to catch solid debris and prevent its entry into the grease trap. Restaurants can also opt for commercial sinks with built-in grease traps, a specialized type of sink designed for enhanced grease management.

“With diligence and expertise, tend to this culinary heart, safeguarding drains, upholding health standards, and preserving the environment.”

– Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

Regular inspections of the trap’s condition will help identify any signs of accumulation, enabling timely cleaning and maintenance. 

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to clean grease traps is essential for restaurants, as it contributes to maintaining a clean, efficient, and compliant kitchen environment. 

By following the step-by-step guide, gathering the necessary tools, and implementing preventive measures, restaurants can ensure their grease traps function optimally, enhancing kitchen productivity and reducing the risk of costly restaurant repairs. 

Whether opting for in-house cleaning or professional services, the commitment to regular maintenance will lead to a thriving restaurant operation, providing customers with a delightful dining experience and ensuring the well-being of patrons and staff. 

References:

1. https://www.thespruce.com/best-degreasers-7100150
2. https://www.allrecipes.com/article/how-to-get-rid-of-cooking-smells/

If you have any more questions about grease trap cleaning for your restaurant, reach out to:

Septic Tank Cleaning Langley BC
Website: https://septictankcleaninglangleybc.ca/
Address: 20725 0 Ave, Langley Twp, BC V2Z 1V1, Canada
Phone: 604-239-0538