Grease Traps: How They Work, Common Issues & Ongoing Maintenance

What Is a Grease Trap and Why Your Business Needs One

A grease trap (also known as a grease interceptor or grease management system) is a vital component in any commercial kitchen. It prevents fats, oils, and grease (commonly referred to as FOG) from entering the drainage system, where they can cause serious blockages, foul odours, and even environmental violations.

Businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and catering facilities generate large amounts of grease daily. Without a properly functioning grease trap, that waste could accumulate in pipes, leading to plumbing issues, increased maintenance costs, and potential fines from local authorities.

At serious, we help businesses stay compliant and efficient with professional grease trap installation, maintenance, and cleaning services across the UK.

How Grease Traps Work: A Simple Breakdown

Grease traps use separation technology to filter waste before it enters your drainage system. Here’s a simple step-by-step overview of how they function:

1. Wastewater enters the grease trap from your kitchen sinks and dishwashers.
2. Gravity separates the materials - lighter fats, oils, and grease rise to the top, while heavier food particles settle at the bottom.
3. The middle layer of relatively clean water is then discharged into the sewer system.
4. The trapped grease and solids remain in the unit until they are professionally removed during maintenance.

This straightforward yet effective process helps keep your plumbing systems running smoothly while protecting the environment.

Common Grease Trap Issues You Shouldn’t Ignore

Even with a properly installed system, grease traps require regular attention. Neglecting maintenance can lead to several costly problems:

1. Blockages and Overflows: Over time, FOG buildup can restrict water flow, causing backups or slow drainage. This often leads to unpleasant smells and can disrupt your business operations.

2. Bad Odours: If you notice persistent foul smells coming from your drains, it’s likely due to decomposing grease or food particles inside the trap. Regular cleaning can eliminate these odours.

3. Inefficient Grease Separation: When a grease trap becomes too full, it can no longer separate grease effectively. This allows FOG to enter the sewer system, potentially breaching local environmental regulations.

4. Structural Damage: Without maintenance, corrosive waste can damage your grease trap, leading to leaks and costly repairs.

We don’t just clean grease traps; we inspect them thoroughly to identify potential issues before they become major problems.

The Importance of Regular Grease Trap Maintenance

Maintaining your grease trap isn’t just about hygiene; it’s about compliance and sustainability.

Stay Compliant with UK Regulations: UK water companies require commercial kitchens to manage FOG waste responsibly. Regular grease trap maintenance ensures you remain compliant and avoid fines.

Prevent Costly Downtime: A clogged system can cause operational delays. Routine maintenance helps you avoid emergency callouts and keeps your kitchen running smoothly.

Protect the Environment: Properly managed grease traps reduce the risk of environmental contamination, helping you maintain your business’s reputation as a sustainable operator.

Extend Equipment Lifespan: Consistent servicing ensures your grease trap functions efficiently, saving money on replacements and plumbing repairs in the long term.

How Often Should You Clean Your Grease Trap?

The frequency of cleaning depends on your business type and kitchen activity. As a general rule:

• High-volume kitchens (restaurants, hotels, catering facilities): Every 1–2 weeks
• Medium-volume operations: Every 3–4 weeks
• Low-volume businesses: Every 1–2 months

We provide customised grease management plans that suit your kitchen’s needs and schedule, ensuring ongoing compliance and optimal performance.

Professional Grease Trap Services from serious

We’re more than just a maintenance company; we’re your partners in sustainable kitchen management. Our comprehensive services include:

• Grease trap installation and replacement
• Scheduled cleaning and maintenance
• FOG waste removal and disposal (in line with UK environmental regulations)
• System inspections and compliance checks
• 24/7 emergency response services

Our expert engineers are fully trained, certified, and equipped with advanced tools to ensure your grease management system operates safely and efficiently.

Signs Your Grease Trap Needs Immediate Attention

If you’re unsure when to call in the professionals, watch for these warning signs:

• Slow drainage or water backup in sinks
• Persistent foul odours near drains
• Grease is visible in the drain outlets
• Overflowing or leaking traps
• Increased frequency of plumbing issues

If you notice any of the above, it’s time to contact the team at serious for a professional inspection.

Why Choose serious for Grease Trap Maintenance

• Nationwide coverage across the UK
• Environmentally responsible waste disposal
• Reliable, fast response times
• Custom maintenance plans tailored to your business
• Years of experience in grease management and drainage services

When it comes to grease traps, serious expertise matters, and that’s exactly what we deliver.

Contact serious Today

Don’t let grease trap problems slow your business down. Stay compliant, efficient, and environmentally responsible with serious.

Contact us today to schedule your grease trap inspection or maintenance service or to learn more about how we can help keep your kitchen running smoothly.