Grease trap cleaning is an essential part of keeping your kitchen in good condition. However, in order to make sure that your grease trap cleaning efforts are successful, you will want to make sure that you follow the right steps to protect yourself and to effectively clean your grease trap.

Have The Proper Equipment

Cleaning a grease trap requires a lot of protective equipment. You will need a gas mask, rubber gloves, and coveralls. If you do not wear coveralls when cleaning a grease trap, you will need to throw your clothes away after the deed is done. 

The grease lid will require either a crowbar or a wrench. You will know that you need a wrench if the lid is attached with bolts. You will need a scraper to clean both the tank and baffles. A bucket and scoop should be used to remove the sludge and liquids. A shop vacuum is also an important tool for removing grease and liquids. The liquid can also be removed from the trap using a small pump. 

Use Beneficial Bacteria

One of the biggest concerns about grease traps are the odors that they produce. In order to reduce the odor and to reduce the extent to which you must clean your grease traps, it is recommended that you invest in beneficial bacteria. Beneficial bacteria is able to convert grease into water and carbon dioxide. Another benefit is that beneficial bacteria requires very little work from the grease trap owner. However, you will still need to have your trap cleaned periodically because the beneficial bacteria will not necessarily eliminate all of the grease.

Know When To Replace The Unit

While it is important to maintain your grease trap, the trap will sometimes go bad and will constantly be backing up. Under these circumstances, it is recommended that you replace the unit. Not only is it important to have a new grease trap, but it is essential to make sure that the new grease trap is properly installed. 

Hire A Professional

While you can clean your grease trap yourself, it is recommended that you have your grease trap cleaned by a professional. It is safer to hire a professional who is able to take the grease to a licensed processing facility in order to ensure that the grease does not have an impact on the environment. Professionals like Tierra Environmental & Industrial Services are also able to clean the grease trap in a manner that keeps everyone safe.