Grease Trap Cleaned
Grease Trap Cleaned | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | Heiskell
When Heiskell kitchens are running full tilt, a clogged or foul-smelling grease trap can bring business to a halt. HEP’s licensed experts swoop in with powerful, eco-friendly cleaning equipment that scrubs every baffle, intercepts every fat deposit, and hauls waste away in compliance with Knox County codes. From 24/7 emergency pump-outs to routine maintenance schedules that fit your off-hours, we keep your sinks draining fast, your floors dry, and your health inspector smiling.
But a grease trap is only one link in your plumbing chain. Our commercial plumbing team checks flow rates, inspects sewer lines with HD cameras, and replaces worn gaskets or corroded pipes before they create costly downtime. Whether you run a roadside diner on Clinton Highway or a sprawling manufacturing plant near I-75, HEP delivers punctual service, transparent pricing, and workmanship backed by our Clean Job Guarantee—so you can stay focused on serving customers, not fighting backups.
FAQs
What is a grease trap and why does my Heiskell business need regular cleaning?
A grease trap (also called a grease interceptor) is a plumbing device that captures fats, oils, and grease (FOG) before they enter the municipal sewer line. Restaurants, cafeterias, grocery stores, and other food-service establishments in Heiskell generate significant amounts of FOG that can solidify and cause costly blockages. Regular cleaning keeps the trap operating efficiently, helps you comply with Anderson/Knox County FOG ordinances, prevents emergency sewer backups, and protects the environment.
How often should a commercial grease trap be serviced in Heiskell?
Most local codes follow the “25 % Rule,” which requires cleaning when the combined depth of grease and solids equals 25 % of the trap’s total liquid depth. For busy kitchens, this typically translates to every 30–90 days. Smaller or lower-volume facilities may be able to stretch service to quarterly or semi-annual intervals, but a maintenance log, visual inspections, and periodic FOG measurements are the best ways to set the right schedule. Our technicians can evaluate your usage and recommend a compliance-friendly timetable.
What warning signs indicate my grease trap needs cleaning right away?
• Slow or gurgling floor drains and sinks • Persistent foul odors near the trap or floor drains • Grease buildup visible at the manhole cover or clean-outs • Grease or solids occupying more than 25 % of the trap’s depth • Grease bubbling up in dishwash sinks or mop sinks If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule service immediately to avoid a sudden blockage or health-department violation.
What does your professional grease trap cleaning service include?
1. Initial inspection and FOG measurement 2. Complete pump-out of grease, food solids, and wastewater 3. Scraping and power-washing of trap walls, baffles, and cover to remove hardened residue 4. Flushing of inlet and outlet lines to ensure free flow 5. Structural check for cracks, corrosion, or faulty gaskets 6. Documentation: service log entry and disposal manifest to satisfy regulatory requirements 7. Proper transport and disposal of waste at a licensed processing facility We also offer optional enzyme dosing systems, drain maintenance plans, and reminders so you never miss a cleaning.
Are there local regulations in Heiskell or Tennessee that govern grease trap maintenance?
Yes. Anderson and Knox Counties enforce FOG ordinances based on the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation (TDEC) guidelines. Key points include: • Installation of an appropriately sized interceptor for any food-service facility • Adherence to the 25 % Rule for cleaning frequency • Maintenance logs kept on-site for at least three years • Use of licensed haulers for grease disposal Non-compliance can lead to warnings, fines, or even forced shutdowns. Our service is designed to keep you fully compliant and inspection-ready.
What are the main benefits of scheduling routine grease trap cleaning with a professional plumber?
• Prevents unexpected sewer backups and costly emergency plumbing calls • Avoids municipal fines and protects your health-department rating • Extends the lifespan of your plumbing, pumps, and lift stations • Reduces unpleasant kitchen odors and improves workplace hygiene • Promotes efficient kitchen operations by maintaining proper drain flow • Demonstrates environmental stewardship by keeping FOG out of local waterways Partnering with a certified commercial plumber ensures your grease trap is cleaned thoroughly, documented correctly, and disposed of responsibly.