How to Clean a Grease Trap Properly (And When to Call a Pro) July 9, 2025

Grease traps are essential for keeping commercial kitchens and food businesses running smoothly — but if they’re not cleaned regularly, they can quickly become a costly problem. Whether you’re a restaurant owner or manage a high-volume kitchen, knowing how to clean a grease trap can prevent backups, health violations, and unpleasant odors. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the cleaning process, explain how often to service your system, and help you recognize when it’s time to bring in the pros. Proper grease trap maintenance doesn’t just protect your plumbing, it protects your business.

What Is a Grease Trap and Why Is It Important?

A grease trap is a plumbing device designed to intercept fats, oils, and grease (FOG) before they enter your main sewer line. Common in restaurants and commercial kitchens, it helps prevent blockages that could cause backups, foul odors, or even shutdowns. By separating grease from wastewater, it protects your pipes — and the local water system — from harmful buildup.

Neglecting your grease trap doesn’t just risk a clog. It could also violate local codes, lead to expensive fines, and damage your business’s reputation.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Clean a Grease Trap Safely

Wondering how to clean a grease trap properly? Here’s a safe and effective step-by-step method:

Turn off water flow to the trap to prevent spills.
Remove the lid carefully — grease traps often have gaskets that can be damaged.
Scoop out grease and sludge using a ladle or bucket. Dispose according to local waste regulations.
Scrub the interior with a wire brush and biodegradable degreaser.
Rinse thoroughly and replace the lid.
Record the date of cleaning for compliance and scheduling purposes.

Always wear gloves and eye protection, and keep ventilation strong. For larger or more complex traps, professional help is recommended.

How Often Should You Clean a Grease Trap?

Most restaurant and food service establishments should clean their restaurant grease trap every 1 to 3 months. However, this can vary depending on:

The size of the trap
Volume of food prep and dishwashing
Local codes and inspection schedules

Some regulations require cleaning when the trap is 25% full. Falling behind on cleanings is the fastest way to cause a grease trap clog and potentially shut down operations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning a Grease Trap

Cleaning a grease trap sounds straightforward, but small errors can lead to big problems. Avoid these common mistakes:

Waiting too long between cleanings
Using harsh chemicals that damage pipes and violate codes
Improper disposal of grease and sludge
Forgetting to inspect baffles and lids for damage
Skipping documentation needed for health inspections

A little attention now can save you from emergency repairs and compliance headaches later.

When to Hire a Professional Grease Trap Cleaning Service

Even if you know how to clean a grease trap, that doesn’t mean you should always DIY. Here’s when it’s smart to call in a professional:

The trap is too large to handle safely
You notice foul odors or slow drainage
You’re due for a code compliance inspection
You need service outside business hours
You want reliable, scheduled cleanings

Companies like Weco Rooter specialize in grease trap cleaning and can also assess whether your system needs commercial hydro jetting to fully clear out buildup.

Grease Trap Maintenance Tips to Prevent Clogs and Odors

Preventative drain maintenance business practices can keep your kitchen running smoothly. Here are simple tips to extend the life of your grease trap:

Scrape food scraps and grease into the trash before washing
Train staff on what not to put down drains
Schedule routine inspections and cleaning
Use enzyme-based grease digesters as needed (but never as a replacement for cleaning)

Staying proactive helps prevent emergency repairs — and keeps your kitchen compliant.

How WeCo Can Help Prevent Clogs

If your grease trap or sewer lines clog frequently, it may be time for hydrojetting. This method uses high-pressure water to blast away hardened grease, sludge, and debris from pipes.

At Weco Rooter we use commercial-grade equipment to restore full flow without harsh chemicals. It’s ideal for:

Restaurant kitchens with heavy grease use
Backup-prone commercial plumbing
Cleaning after a major clog or before code inspections

Combining regular grease trap cleaning with hydrojetting can dramatically reduce plumbing issues and ensure long-term system health.

Keep Your Business Running Smoothly

Knowing how to clean a grease trap isn’t just about avoiding clogs—it’s essential for compliance, safety, and smooth operations. Whether you manage a busy kitchen or a commercial facility, routine grease trap maintenance and strategic services like hydrojetting can protect your plumbing and your bottom line.

Need help? Contact Weco Rooter for expert grease trap cleaning and drain maintenance services today.