Stop Kitchen Discharge
Stop kitchen discharge when the interceptor is overflowing. Limit sinks, dishwashers, and connected fixtures so more wastewater does not enter. Keep staff and customers away from wet floors, and close food operations if wastewater has contaminated the work area.
Why Grease Traps Overflow
Overflow commonly results from excessive FOG and solids, a blocked outlet, downstream pipe restriction, failed baffle, undersized equipment, or missed maintenance. A full trap may overflow even though the building sewer remains clear, while a downstream blockage can force water back through a recently cleaned interceptor.
Overflow Diagnosis and Service
Seattle Plumbers checks water level, FOG depth, settled solids, inlet and outlet tees, baffles, flow control, and downstream response. Service may include:
- Pumping accumulated contents
- Scraping and cleaning interior surfaces
- Clearing accessible inlet or outlet restrictions
- Cleaning the connected grease-waste line
- Replacing damaged serviceable components
- Documenting fill and maintenance findings
We refill or restore the interceptor as appropriate and test connected fixtures for stable flow.
Prevent Another Overflow
Prevention requires a schedule based on actual accumulation. Staff should scrape food into solid-waste containers, keep used cooking oil out of drains, and record every cleaning or pump-out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an overflowing trap be used until service arrives?
No. Continued discharge can spread wastewater and worsen the blockage.
Does pumping always solve the problem?
Not when the inlet, outlet, or downstream pipe is clogged. Diagnosis must identify the restricted section.
Request Emergency Grease Service
Request Grease Trap Overflowing service from Seattle Plumbers for prompt containment, cleaning, drainage testing, and a practical maintenance plan.