If you’re a restaurant owner, you know the grease trap is one of the most important parts of your commercial kitchen. Grease traps catch the fats and oils that come off of plates to prevent the pipes in your building from being clogged. It’s also the toughest reservoir to manage, as it is hard to know the level of waste unless the trap is disassembled.  Regardless, when the sludge reaches a 25% occupancy of the tank, you are required by law to pump out the trap.

It can be a nightmare to clean out a grease trap yourself— consider hiring a reputable waste management company to pump out the trap quickly and efficiently. Russell Reid is a reputable choice, view a list of their services here.

So, how do you know when it is the right time to call the pros? We have all the warning signs below to keep you on your toes.

Do you smell a scent that just won’t go away?

All the leftover food waste sitting in the grease trap is going to smell after it’s been sitting for quite some time. Any bad odor coming from the grease trap area is a dead giveaway it’s time to tend to the grease trap quickly. 

Is there a buildup of water coming through your sinks?

Grease and water don’t sit too nicely together— when grease builds up, it creates a barrier that stops water from easily draining through. If you’re seeing this don’t wait too long— a significant enough drainage buildup can hinder your dishwashers and other equipment from doing its job.

In other words, pay extra attention to your grease trap. Tune into these two problem areas and try to have a technician in once every 90 days to avoid any issues from interfering with your kitchen.