Odors in the kitchen are unpleasant and unhygienic, which can be especially problematic in restaurants with high foot traffic and busy kitchens. But whether you’re just learning how to manage your kitchen or have run your restaurant for years, there are ways to prevent odors and keep your restaurant clean without spending tons of time and money on cleaning products that may not work the way you expect them to.
Here are seven simple steps to prevent odors in your restaurant kitchen.
1)Grease Trap Pumping
Grease trap pumping can help with your odor problem. You should have your grease trap pumped as frequently as recommended by your local regulations or as often necessary to prevent overflows. A well-maintained grease trap protects your local water system from contamination. Additionally, you can avoid unpleasant odors from fat, oil, and grease overflows.
2) Hydro-Jetting
Hydro-Jetting uses pressurized hose spray jets of high-pressure water streams on the interior of your plumbing system. Hydro-jetting cuts through grease, grime, soap scum, mildew, and other deposits that build up in your pipes and contribute to unpleasant odors and slow drains. This is ideal for keeping your plumbing lines flowing and avoiding stagnant water in your kitchen.
3)In-Flow Protectors
In-flow protectors are simple plastic inserts that fit into your outdoor maintenance holes and catch debris like road oil, leaves, and grass which might otherwise clog your grease trap. Another benefit of in-flow protectors is odor control. Unpleasant odors are kept inside the trap rather than vented into your parking lot or drive-through.
In-flow protectors require almost no maintenance or special installation and are relatively inexpensive. In addition, it’s made from durable materials, so you won’t have to worry about replacing it soon. Ask your Southwaste sales rep about installing in-flow protectors in your grease trap for an easy way to avoid unwanted smells from your grease trap between services.
4) Maintaining Fridge Inventory
Maintain your inventory regularly. If food begins to rot or go bad, you’ll likely notice an odor emanating from the fridge before it’s even opened. Plus, disposing of old items is one less thing for your employees to worry about. Empty containers as soon as possible – Leftover containers can often be a breeding ground for bacteria, producing an odor that will spread throughout the kitchen and possibly beyond.
5) Keeping Prep Areas Clean
Cleaning your prep areas is one of the best ways to stop odors before they start. Stockpots and pans should be removed from the stovetop after use and cleaned appropriately. Utensils, dishes, and any tools or items used for cooking should not be left out and should be cleaned as soon as possible. Keeping prep areas clean prevents food contamination and is an ongoing effort in a commercial kitchen.
6) Preventing Grease and Oil Buildup on Equipment
Grease and oil are an everyday part of a commercial kitchen. Grease and oil buildup can contribute to kitchen odors, attract pests, and potentially become a fire hazard. The best way to prevent this buildup is by regularly cleaning cooking surfaces and vent hoods. Some commercial kitchens even make use of professional cleaning companies.
7) Keep Waste Containers Clean
Waste containers must be cleaned as often as necessary, with particular attention paid to the areas near dishwashers and hand-washing stations. These items will easily develop odors, which can quickly spread throughout the kitchen. Remove dishes, pots, pans, and utensils from surfaces around sinks and dishwashers.
Why the Big Stink?
No one likes walking into a restaurant kitchen that smells bad. Your employees and patrons depend on you to keep your kitchen safe and smelling fresh.
Southwaste Disposal can help you to ensure that your plumbing system and grease trap are not creating unpleasant odors. Our scheduled service makes maintaining your grease trap and plumbing systems easy.
Request service today via our website or by phone at 1-866-413-9494.