From Our Service Logs: The Truth About Grease Trap Pumping Schedules

Grease trap pumping is essential for keeping kitchens functional and free from blockages. The frequency depends on the size of the trap, the volume of food waste, and how often the kitchen operates. Most commercial kitchens need pumping every 1-3 months, while residential units generally require it less often. Delaying pumping allows grease and solids to build up, which can slow drains and create unpleasant odors. For local businesses and homeowners, we provide grease trap pumping, as part of comprehensive maintenance plans that include cleaning and inspections to keep systems working efficiently.

Grease Traps vs. Grease Trap Interceptors

Grease traps and grease trap interceptor systems both remove fats, oils, and grease from wastewater, but they are designed for different environments. Residential grease traps are smaller units intended for home kitchens, handling modest amounts of food waste. Commercial grease trap interceptors are larger, often featuring multiple compartments to capture solids and grease more efficiently in high-volume kitchens such as restaurants and cafeterias. Understanding which system you have is important for determining a pumping schedule that prevents buildup and keeps wastewater flowing properly.

Our grease trap services help both residential and commercial clients maintain the right system for their needs.

Pumping vs. Cleaning: Why Both Matter

Pumping and cleaning are two separate tasks that keep traps functioning properly. Grease trap pumping removes accumulated fats, oils, grease, and solids from the tank. Commercial kitchens with large interceptors often fill their traps quickly, requiring monthly pumping, while smaller residential traps may only need it every few months. Our grease trap cleaning in Henderson, NV goes further, involving scraping and washing the interior walls, removing any residue, and rinsing the system to maintain optimal flow. Combining regular pumping with periodic cleaning ensures both efficiency and longevity for any trap or interceptor.

Signs Your Grease Trap Needs Pumping

Regardless of size, traps signal when they need service. Slow drains, surface grease accumulation, or odors indicate it’s time for pumping. Routine grease trap maintenance prevents these issues from interrupting kitchen operations. In high-volume commercial kitchens, we tailor pumping schedules to match peak usage, keeping grease trap interceptors performing efficiently.

Lint Traps: Supporting System Efficiency

Beyond fats, oils, and grease, lint from dishwashers or laundry machines can build up in lint traps or interceptors, slowing wastewater flow and causing clogs. Lint contributes to 20-30% of non-food drain blockages in commercial settings. Bundling lint trap cleaning with routine grease trap pumping in your service plan ensures comprehensive protection for residential and commercial plumbing.

Common Questions About Grease Trap Care

Do commercial interceptors require more frequent pumping than residential traps?

Yes. High-volume kitchens produce more grease and need more frequent grease trap interceptor pumping.

Can chemical additives replace pumping?

No. Additives may reduce odors temporarily but cannot remove trapped solids.

Are smaller residential traps easier to maintain?

Size is smaller, but neglect can still lead to buildup and slow drains.

Keeping Kitchens Running with Reliable Grease Trap Services

We deliver grease trap pumping and cleaning with fast response times, transparent pricing, and friendly, efficient service from knowledgeable technicians. Whether residential or commercial, our skillful professionals handle each trap or interceptor carefully, keeping kitchens running smoothly. Contact us today and experience great customer service tailored to your needs.