How Often Should I Schedule Grease Trap Service?

The cycle you should service your trap depends on several factors:

• 1) the size of the trap
• 2) what you are putting into the trap
• 3) local ordinances/regulations and enforcement

Generally, municipalities with pumping ordinances will require a cycle of at least every 90 days. We have customers who opt not to follow those regulations, but they usually find that Johnny Law eventually catches on to them.

Traps generally fall into two categories: small traps and large traps. Small traps are usually located in the kitchen and are 50 gallons or less. Large traps, which are a thousand gallons or more, are typically located outside of the restaurant. Depending on how much waste is put into the trap, 50-gallon traps generally need to be cleaned more than every 90 days.

Most restaurant operators don’t realize that the number one source of grease for their restaurant is the dishwasher. A best practice is to scrape the food and grease off of plates, cookware, and utensils prior to washing in the dishwasher. This can reduce the amount of grease the grease trap catches, sometimes significantly. Restaurants with smaller traps might find that they can go longer between cleanings by changing these kitchen practices.

Types Of Grease Traps

If you have a smaller trap, you might get a feel for how often a trap needs cleaning based on your history with the trap. Generally, after it gets too much grease in it, it will either start to stink or the sinks will start to drain more slowly, especially if you dump multiple compartments at once. If you are having problems, try adjusting your service cycle to occur before problems arise, which will cut down on kitchen emergencies.

Larger traps are designed to go at least 90 days between services. You might need to go more frequently than 90 days if your trap sees significant grease or food solids. As mentioned above, this varies by kitchen practices and the kind of food that is prepared. For example, a sandwich shop that does not serve its food on plates will accumulate much less grease than most Mexican food restaurants.

Ready to get started? Please give us a call and our account managers will set you up with service and figure out a cycle that works best for your establishment.