Restaurant Grease Trap Maintenance Guide

Restaurant grease traps are crucial components of commercial kitchen waste management systems, designed to prevent fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from entering municipal sewage systems. Proper maintenance of these systems is not only essential for the smooth operation of your restaurant but is also required by local health departments and municipal regulations.

At Alpha Septic Services, we provide comprehensive grease trap pumping and maintenance services for restaurants throughout the Austin area, helping food service establishments maintain compliance and avoid costly violations.

Understanding Commercial Grease Traps

Commercial grease traps (also called grease interceptors) work by slowing down the flow of wastewater from kitchen sinks, dishwashers, and floor drains, allowing time for fats, oils, and grease to separate from water. Since FOG is lighter than water, it rises to the top of the trap where it's captured, while the clearer water continues to flow into the sewer system.

Regular maintenance isn't just about compliance—it's about protecting your business from emergency shutdowns, expensive emergency service calls, and damage to your plumbing infrastructure.

- Alpha Septic Services

Restaurant Grease Trap Maintenance Requirements

In Austin and surrounding areas, restaurants are typically required to:

Warning Signs Your Grease Trap Needs Immediate Service

Don't wait for your scheduled service if you notice these warning signs:

• Slow draining sinks or backed up floor drains
• Foul odors coming from drains or trap areas
• Grease trap filled to 25% of capacity or more
• Gurgling sounds from plumbing system
• Water backing up into other drains when water is running

Alpha Septic Services offers reliable, scheduled grease trap pumping services for restaurants throughout Central Texas. Our technicians are trained to provide thorough cleaning, proper waste disposal in accordance with environmental regulations, and detailed documentation for your health department records. We also offer emergency services for unexpected grease trap issues that require immediate attention.