- HEP Plumbing
- Grease-trap Service

Grease-trap Service
Grease-trap Service | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | Athens
When busy Athens kitchens grind to a halt because a grease trap is clogged, every minute counts. HEP’s seasoned technicians arrive fast, pump out the fats, oils, and solids, and reset your system so sinks, dishwashers, and floor drains run freely again. We pressure-wash the trap, inspect baffles, and document our work—proving compliance with local wastewater ordinances and helping you avoid citations or surprise shutdowns.
From 24/7 emergency clean-outs to scheduled maintenance plans, we tailor solutions that fit your restaurant, hotel, or campus cafeteria. Our crews travel with fully stocked trucks to tackle line jetting, gasket replacement, and backflow testing in one visit, reducing downtime and labor costs. If you’re looking for a partner who treats grease management as the first line of defense in commercial plumbing, call HEP today and keep your operations—and reputation—flowing smoothly.
FAQs
How often should a commercial grease trap in Athens be pumped or cleaned?
Most local health departments and Athens-Clarke County Water Resources recommend pumping every 30–90 days, depending on kitchen volume and trap size. Restaurants with high fryer usage may need service monthly, while lower-volume facilities might extend to quarterly. Regular monitoring of FOG (fats, oils, grease) levels will determine the precise schedule and help you stay in compliance with local ordinances.
What regulations govern grease-trap maintenance for businesses in Athens?
Commercial kitchens in Athens must follow the Athens-Clarke County Fats, Oils, and Grease Management Ordinance and any additional Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) rules. These regulations require documented maintenance, proper waste disposal by a licensed hauler, and periodic inspections. Failure to comply can lead to fines, service shutoffs, or revocation of food-service permits.
What does a professional grease-trap service include?
A standard service visit covers: (1) measurement of FOG and solids levels, (2) complete pump-out of the trap, including water and settled solids, (3) scraping and pressure-washing interior walls, baffles, and inlet/outlet pipes, (4) inspection for cracks, loose gaskets, or clogs, (5) replacement of worn parts if needed, (6) proper transport and disposal of collected grease at an approved facility, and (7) detailed service documentation for your records and local inspectors.
Can you handle emergency grease-trap backups outside regular business hours?
Yes. We offer 24/7 emergency response across Athens and the surrounding counties. A crew equipped with vacuum trucks and hydro-jetting gear can typically arrive within 60–90 minutes to pump out the trap, clear downstream blockages, and sanitize affected areas—minimizing kitchen downtime and health risks.
How much does commercial grease-trap pumping cost in Athens?
Pricing depends on trap capacity, accessibility, frequency, and current FOG levels. As a guideline, indoor traps up to 50 gallons start around $120-$150 per service, while outdoor interceptors of 500-1,000 gallons range from $300-$600. We offer volume-based contracts that reduce the per-visit cost and include compliance reporting.
Why is routine grease-trap maintenance important for my business and the environment?
Regular service prevents costly sewer backups, foul odors, and kitchen downtime. It also helps your restaurant avoid fines and maintain a positive health inspection record. Environmentally, proper grease disposal reduces FOG discharges into the Athens sewer system, protecting the Middle Oconee River watershed and cutting municipal treatment costs, which benefits the entire community.