-->
Home > Septic Pumping Blog > What are Grease Traps, and How Do I Know If I Need Mine Cleaned?

What are Grease Traps?

What are Grease Traps, and How Do I Know If I Need Mine Cleaned?
Grease traps are plumbing devices used to strain kitchen water before entering sewer lines.  Their purpose is to intercept any fats, oils or grease to avoid contaminating and blocking drainpipes. A grease trap slows the flow of hot, greasy water.  This allows the grease to float up and out of the water, while the water sinks into the sewer pipes. Grease traps are most commonly found in restaurants and other commercial kitchens.

How do I know if I need to have my grease traps cleaned?

There are two main signs to look for to determine if your grease traps need to be professionally cleaned. If you are experiencing these signs, call us at Averett Septic Tank Co Inc. We would love to help you and clean your grease traps.

  • Strong Odors- Allowing fats, oils, or grease down your pipes will, over time, develop a disgusting scent as grease traps begin to reach their capacity.  When you begin to notice the odor, look for at least one other sign to ensure your grease trap is really the problem.
  • Slow Draining– When grease traps begin to fill, not only do they create a strong odor, but also sinks begin to drain very slowly. This is another sign that your trap is full and needing to be cleaned.

If you are experiencing either or both of the above plumbing issues, give us a call at Averett Septic Tank Co Inc. Allowing your grease trap to overflow without being properly cleaned can create a plumbing disaster.  Let us get your grease traps cleaned before a bigger plumbing issue arises.