Stop Connected Water Use
Stop connected water use if the interceptor level is rising. Continued sink or dishwasher discharge can overflow the access cover and contaminate kitchen floors.
Why the Interceptor Will Not Drain
The cause may be a dense FOG layer, settled food solids, a blocked tee, damaged baffle, obstructed flow control, collapsed pipe, or downstream sewer clog. A full interceptor also loses separation capacity and passes grease toward the outlet.
Drainage Diagnosis and Repair
Seattle Plumbers measures contents and observes how water enters and leaves the unit. We may:
- Pump or remove accumulated contents
- Clean interior walls and components
- Clear accessible inlet and outlet openings
- Cable or jet a grease-restricted pipe
- Inspect the downstream line by camera when appropriate
- Repair or replace damaged accessible trap parts
After service, we run connected fixtures and confirm that water moves through the interceptor without backing up.
Prevent Slow Drainage
Measure buildup during service and shorten the maintenance interval before the trap reaches its operating limit. Scrape food solids, collect used oil separately, and keep service records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the trap full of water after cleaning?
An operating interceptor normally contains water. The concern is whether the level is abnormally high or flow is restricted.
Does the whole trap need replacement?
Not for every blockage. Replacement is considered when the tank, baffles, capacity, or configuration cannot be repaired adequately.
Request Drainage Service
Request Grease Trap Not Draining service from Seattle Plumbers for pumping, line diagnosis, and verified commercial-kitchen flow.