What Grease Trap Services Do Commercial Kitchens Need?
In a busy commercial kitchen, a properly maintained grease trap is essential. Not only can it prevent plumbing problems and other expensive issues - it is required to comply with the Building Regulations 2010, which mandate waste management standards for commercial premises.
Grease traps are designed to capture fats, oils, and grease (FOG) before they reach the drainage system, where they could create blockages and disrupt kitchen operations. By adhering to these regulations, restaurant and kitchen owners can avoid plumbing issues, prevent unpleasant odours, and minimise the risk of fines associated with non-compliance.
Understanding the specific maintenance and servicing needs of grease traps can help maintain a compliant and efficient kitchen environment. Here, the commercial waste experts at Universal Tankers explain everything a commercial kitchen owner needs to know about grease traps.
Understanding grease trap basics
By capturing FOG before it reaches the drainage system, grease traps prevent blockages that can disrupt operations and lead to costly repairs. Knowing how grease traps work and why regular maintenance matters can help kitchen owners avoid common issues, maintain hygiene standards, and implement proper FOG disposal.
What is a grease trap?
A grease trap is a device designed to intercept fats, oils, and excess grease from wastewater before it flows into the sewer system. Whether they are located beneath the sink or outside the kitchen, grease traps are used to separate FOG from water, helping to avoid blockages. Without them, grease could solidify within the pipes, leading to clogs and unpleasant odours that can disrupt kitchen operations.
The importance of regular maintenance
Grease traps, like any kitchen equipment, need regular attention. When FOG accumulates, it hardens, and over time this build-up can restrict flow or cause severe blockages. Routine cleaning and inspection prevent these issues, maintaining the smooth operation of kitchen drains and ensuring compliance with waste disposal regulations.
Grease trap installation
The options of grease trap installation vary depending on the kitchen’s specific needs, including passive grease traps, which separate fats, oils, and grease from wastewater as it flows through. Grease interceptors, commonly used for larger kitchens, provide higher capacity and can handle a greater volume of FOG before needing maintenance.
Essential grease trap services
To keep your grease trap in good working order, there are several core services that should be considered. These services address various aspects of grease trap maintenance, from regular cleaning to compliance with disposal requirements.
- Grease trap cleaning: Routine cleaning is at the heart of grease trap maintenance and FOG management. Grease traps collect FOG, and as these substances cool, they form solid deposits. These deposits must be professionally removed to prevent clogs and avoid any foul smells from affecting your kitchen environment. Professional cleaning services use specialised tools and methods to clear even the most stubborn build-up.
- Grease trap inspection and monitoring: Regular inspections play an important role in maintaining a well-functioning grease trap. During inspections, our technicians check for early signs of problems, such as leaks, corrosion, or excess FOG accumulation. With ongoing monitoring, any potential issues can be identified before they lead to more extensive repairs. This proactive approach saves time, avoids costly downtime, and helps kitchens run smoothly.
- Grease trap pumping services: For high-capacity kitchens, grease trap pumping is often necessary. This service involves removing the accumulated FOG and water from the grease trap to prevent backflow or overflow. Frequent pumping keeps the grease trap from reaching capacity too quickly, preventing overflows that could lead to expensive clean-ups. Pumping frequency will depend on the size of the grease trap and the kitchen’s daily FOG production.
- Drain line jetting and cleaning: Drain line jetting is an essential add-on for kitchens that experience frequent blockages. Grease traps capture FOG, but some particles inevitably escape and lead to clogs in the drain lines. Jetting involves using high-pressure water to clear any build-up within the pipes, maintaining a free-flowing drainage system. This service supports the longevity of both the grease trap and the kitchen’s plumbing infrastructure, reducing the need for repairs.
- Waste removal and disposal compliance: Professional grease trap service providers handle waste disposal in line with the environmental regulations that apply to UK businesses. Professional grease trap service providers handle waste disposal in line with these standards, providing documentation that verifies the safe and compliant removal of FOG. Proper waste disposal helps businesses avoid fines and demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Customised grease trap solutions
No two kitchens are identical, and grease trap requirements will vary based on a range of factors, including the kitchen’s size, menu, and operating hours. At Universal Tankers, customised service plans are available to fit specific needs, allowing kitchen owners to avoid unnecessary expenses while ensuring each grease trap remains functional.
A tailored maintenance plan considers your kitchen’s specific FOG output and the demands on your grease trap. Some kitchens may require cleaning every few weeks, while others might only need a quarterly service. By working with a service provider who can adjust to your requirements, you can maintain a clear grease trap without interrupting kitchen operations.
In the event of an unexpected blockage or overflow, Universal Tankers’ emergency grease trap services are invaluable. We offer 24/7 support, which can be especially beneficial for restaurants that operate late hours or during weekends. Quick response to emergency issues minimises downtime, protects your plumbing system, and reduces the risk of health and safety concerns.
Choosing a reliable grease trap service provider
Selecting a grease trap service provider is as relevant to your kitchen operations as maintaining the equipment itself. A provider with expertise and a commitment to regulatory compliance can help keep your kitchen running smoothly and aligned with environmental standards.
Universal Tankers exemplifies these qualities, offering professional grease trap emptying services across the UK. With over 30 years in the wastewater and drainage systems management industry, we provide tailored solutions for both commercial and residential clients.
Industry experience and compliance with UK regulations
When evaluating potential service providers, consider their industry experience, history of working with commercial kitchens and transparency about pricing. A dependable provider will have appropriate certifications, efficient waste disposal processes and a solid reputation for consistent work. These qualities demonstrate an approach that reduces the risk of grease trap issues such as blockages or odours, which can disrupt kitchen operations.
Universal Tankers adheres strictly to environmental laws and regulations, helping clients comply with legislation to avoid potential fines. Our commitment to the compliance of our customers’ FOG disposal is demonstrated by our adherence to the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) and other accolades that emphasise safety, efficiency and environmental awareness.
Questions to ask before hiring
Before deciding on a service provider, ask specific questions to clarify their offerings and processes. Enquire about waste removal methods, the type of compliance documentation they provide and whether they offer after-hours services in case of emergencies. Understanding these details helps you choose a provider capable of meeting your kitchen's specific requirements.
Universal Tankers offers comprehensive services, including regular grease trap emptying, customised maintenance plans and swift emergency response to keep your operations running without interruption. Each service includes full traceability with a waste transfer note, disposing of your waste responsibly and according to regulation.
By choosing Universal Tankers, you partner with a provider that combines extensive industry experience, a commitment to compliance and a focus on customer satisfaction, meeting your grease trap maintenance needs effectively and efficiently.
FAQs about grease trap maintenance
Where does the grease trap go in a commercial kitchen?
In a commercial kitchen, grease traps are strategically installed to intercept fats, oils, and grease before wastewater enters the main drainage system. Typically, grease traps are positioned either beneath the kitchen sink or in an outdoor space close to the kitchen. The ideal placement depends on the kitchen’s size, layout, and FOG output. For smaller kitchens, an under-sink grease trap is often sufficient and convenient, capturing FOG directly from the primary source. In larger kitchens or those with substantial FOG output, outdoor grease traps or those positioned near the waste outlet may be more effective, as they offer larger capacity and reduce the frequency of required maintenance. Proper placement helps ensure efficient grease separation and minimises the risk of FOG build-up in the kitchen’s plumbing.
What size grease trap do I need for a commercial kitchen?
The right grease trap size depends on the kitchen’s daily water flow, FOG output, and the types of equipment used. Kitchens with higher water usage or equipment like dishwashers and deep fryers generally need larger grease traps to accommodate increased FOG production. Grease traps are rated by flow capacity, typically measured in litres per second or gallons per minute. Small to medium-sized kitchens, such as those in cafés or small restaurants, may benefit from a 20 to 50-litre grease trap, whereas larger operations with high FOG output, such as busy restaurants or food processing facilities, may require grease traps in the range of 100 to 200 litres or more. Consulting with a professional provider can help you to determine the appropriate size, balancing capacity with maintenance needs to ensure optimal performance.
How often should a commercial grease trap be cleaned?
The frequency of grease trap cleaning varies based on kitchen size, FOG output, and trap capacity, but most commercial kitchens should consider cleaning their grease traps every one to three months. High-volume kitchens with frequent FOG production, such as those using deep-frying or grilling, may benefit from monthly cleanings to prevent blockages and avoid unpleasant odours. Smaller kitchens with lower FOG output might find a quarterly schedule sufficient. Regular cleaning prevents grease generated by hot food from solidifying, which reduces the risk of clogs and costly plumbing issues. A reliable grease trap service provider like Universal Tankers can offer a maintenance schedule tailored to a kitchen’s specific requirements, ensuring the trap functions effectively and remains compliant with local regulations using specialised grease management equipment.
At Universal Tankers, we specialise in providing professional, reliable grease trap services tailored to the demands of commercial kitchens. Whether you are looking for routine grease removal or grease trap maintenance, emergency support, or have questions about how our services can help keep your kitchen compliant and clog-free, we are ready to assist. For a quote or to discuss your specific needs, fill out the form below, and a member of our team will respond promptly with personalised support.
Get in Touch
Speak directly with one of our experienced team members by calling 0800 180 4474 in England and Wales, or for our customers in Scotland, reach us on 01236 444322. Let Universal Tankers help you maintain operational efficiency with water delivery solutions designed to support your unique site demands and contribute to your peace of mind.
