Signs of a Grease Trap Clog
Common signs include slow sinks, standing water in the interceptor, gurgling drains, foul odors, high water at the access cover, and backups during dishwasher discharge. Stop using connected fixtures if wastewater begins rising.
Where the Blockage Forms
A clog can form at the inlet tee, outlet tee, baffle opening, flow-control device, branch drain, or side sewer. Thick grease layers reduce working volume, while settled food solids restrict flow beneath the water line.
Cleaning and Drain Correction
Seattle Plumbers opens the accessible unit, measures accumulation, and observes inlet and outlet behavior. Service may include complete contents removal, wall and baffle cleaning, screen cleaning, component reassembly, and connected line clearing.
We test fixtures after service. A trap that fills normally but still drains slowly may have a downstream pipe problem requiring cable cleaning, jetting, or camera inspection.
Maintenance After a Clog
Maintenance should be scheduled from measured buildup rather than waiting for slow flow. Kitchen staff can reduce loading by dry-wiping cookware, scraping plates, and collecting used cooking oil separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chemicals clear a grease trap?
Seattle rules prohibit emulsifying agents, enzymes, bio-additives, and similar chemicals in grease interceptors. Mechanical cleaning removes accumulated material.
How do I know whether the clog is beyond the trap?
Flow testing before and after cleaning helps locate the restriction. A downstream backup can persist after the interceptor is empty.
Schedule Grease Trap Service
Schedule Clogged Grease Trap service with Seattle Plumbers for complete cleaning, blockage location, and verified drainage.