How Often Should a Restaurant Pump Its Grease Trap in Ocala?

Most restaurant grease traps need pumping when fats, oils, grease and food solids fill about a quarter of the trap's depth, a common rule many utilities use. For small indoor traps, that is often every few weeks to every month. Large outdoor interceptors often go one to three months. Small indoor traps cost about $150 to $350 per service, and outdoor interceptors about $350 to $900. Call (352) 677-6144.

Our grease trap pumping in Ocala crews service cafes, restaurants, schools and food trucks across Marion County, with a disposal record after every visit.

What is the 25 percent rule?

The 25 percent rule says a grease trap should be pumped before grease and solids take up about 25 percent of its liquid depth. Past that point, the trap stops slowing water down enough for grease to separate, and grease starts flowing into the sewer or septic line. Many local utilities use this rule, so check your permit for the exact limit.

A tech can measure the grease and solid layers with a sludge judge at each visit. After a few visits, you will know how fast your kitchen fills the trap and can set a steady schedule.

How often do different kitchens need service?

The schedule depends on trap size, how many meals you serve and what you cook. Fryers, grills and dish-heavy kitchens fill traps fastest. Here are common starting points, adjusted after the first few measurements.

What are the signs a grease trap is overdue?

Slow sinks, a bad smell in the kitchen, grease in the floor drains, and backups during the dinner rush are the main signs. If you see any of these, book a pump-out now instead of waiting for the next date.

• Sinks and floor drains slow down.
• A rotten or rancid smell near the trap.
• Grease or food bits in the floor drain.
• Water backing up when dishwashers drain.
• The trap lid is hard to open because of buildup.

What happens during a grease trap service?

A full service includes pumping out all grease, solids and water, scraping the walls and baffles, checking the inlet and outlet, checking the lid and gasket, and giving you a written disposal record. Keep each record on file for inspections.

1. Open and measure the grease and solid layers.
2. Pump the trap empty.
3. Scrape the walls, lid and baffles.
4. Check the baffles, tees and lid for damage.
5. Close it up and record the service.

If lines are clogged with grease, line jetting runs about $250 to $600. Baffle or lid repairs run about $200 to $800.

What does grease trap pumping cost in Ocala?

Price depends on trap size and how full it is. Here are typical Ocala ranges.

Regular service often costs less per visit than an emergency call, because the trap is easier to clean when it is not packed.

How can a kitchen go longer between pumpings?

• Scrape plates into the trash before washing.
• Use sink strainers and empty them often.
• Never pour fryer oil down a drain. Store it for recycling.
• Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel first.
• Train new staff on what goes down the drain.

Is your business on septic instead of sewer? Grease can also ruin a drain field. See our septic tank service Ocala FL page, or drain field repair Ocala if the field is already soggy.

Set a schedule

Call (352) 677-6144. We will measure your trap on the first visit and suggest a pump schedule that fits your kitchen.

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