How to Clean Grease Trap Under Sink – DIY Trick That Works

Grease traps are vital for maintaining a clean and efficient kitchen plumbing system by preventing fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from clogging drains. 

However, over time, grease buildup can lead to unpleasant odours and performance issues. 

In this guide, we’ll show you how to clean your grease trap under the sink with easy, step-by-step instructions to keep everything running smoothly.

How to clean grease trap under sink?

To clean a grease trap under the sink, remove the trap, scrape out the grease, and rinse it with hot water. Regular cleaning prevents clogs and ensures your plumbing stays in good shape.

Key Takeaways

• Cleaning your grease trap regularly prevents build-up and blockages.
• The process is relatively straightforward and can be done with basic tools.
• Regular grease trap maintenance ensures that your kitchen plumbing stays in good working condition.

Why Is Cleaning Your Grease Trap Important?

A grease trap is designed to catch oils and fats from food waste before they enter your kitchen plumbing system. 

Grease traps are an essential part of any kitchen’s plumbing system. They help prevent fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from entering your drains and causing blockages. 

Over time, these traps can become clogged with grease and other debris, which can affect their performance and lead to unpleasant odours. 

Regular cleaning of your grease trap is necessary to keep your kitchen plumbing running smoothly and to avoid any unpleasant issues. 

Over time, these substances can build up in the trap, leading to unpleasant smells, reduced efficiency, and even clogs. 

Regular cleaning of the grease trap ensures that it continues to function properly and prevents potential plumbing issues, such as slow drainage or sewer backups.

By keeping your grease trap clean, you help avoid expensive repairs and keep your kitchen hygienic and pleasant to use. 

It also reduces the strain on your local sewage system, which is better for the environment.

Tools You Will Need to Clean Your Grease Trap

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools on hand to make the job easier and more efficient:

• Rubber gloves (for hygiene and protection)
• A bucket or container (to catch the grease and waste)
• A spatula or scraper (to remove solidified grease)
• Dish soap or degreaser (for cleaning)
• A small brush or old toothbrush (to clean hard-to-reach spots)
• A towel or cloth (to wipe up spills)

Having these tools will ensure that the cleaning process is smooth and prevents any mess from spreading.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Grease Trap Under the Sink

Now, let’s break down the process of cleaning your grease trap into easy-to-follow steps.

Step 1: Locate the Grease Trap

The grease trap is usually located under the kitchen sink, connected to the drainpipe. 

It may be inside a cabinet, so you might need to remove any items from underneath the sink to gain easy access. 

Look for a rectangular or cylindrical container with a lid. Some grease traps may also have a clean-out plug for easier draining.

Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply

Before you start cleaning, it’s a good idea to turn off the water supply to avoid any accidental water flow while you’re working. 

This will also help you avoid splashing and making a mess during the cleaning process.

Step 3: Remove the Lid or Access Panel

Once you’ve located the grease trap, carefully remove the lid or access panel. If there’s any buildup of grease or grime on the lid, use a towel to wipe it down before fully opening the trap. 

Make sure you have your bucket or container placed underneath the trap to catch any water or grease that may spill out.

Step 4: Scoop Out the Grease and Debris

With the lid off, you’ll likely find a thick layer of grease or oil inside the trap. Using your spatula or scraper, start removing the grease and transferring it into your bucket. 

You can also use a plastic container to scoop out any liquid grease. Be careful not to make a mess or spill any grease on the floor.

For solid debris, such as food particles, use the spatula to scrape them off the walls of the trap and into the bucket. 

This will help keep the grease trap clean and ensure that only grease and oils are collected.

Step 5: Clean the Trap with Dish Soap or Degreaser

Once most of the grease and solid particles have been removed, it’s time to clean the inside of the trap. 

Apply a generous amount of dish soap or degreaser to a small brush or toothbrush and scrub the interior of the trap. 

Pay special attention to the corners, edges, and any areas where grease has built up. The brush will help remove any stubborn grease that might be clinging to the sides.

After scrubbing, rinse the trap with warm water to remove any soap or degreaser residue. You can use a wet cloth to wipe away any excess grease or water.

Step 6: Clean the Lid and Surrounding Area

While the trap itself is the focus, don’t forget to clean the lid and surrounding area. Wipe down the lid with a towel to remove any grease that may have accumulated on the surface. You can also clean the area around the grease trap to prevent future grease buildup.

Step 7: Reassemble and Reinstall the Grease Trap

After the grease trap is clean, replace the lid or access panel and ensure it’s securely in place. 

If you removed any parts to clean, reassemble them carefully. Make sure the trap is properly aligned and reconnected to the drainpipe.

Step 8: Dispose of the Grease and Waste Properly

Once the grease trap is cleaned, you’ll need to dispose of the collected grease and debris properly. Never pour grease down the drain or toilet, as it can cause blockages in the plumbing. 

Instead, place the grease in a sealed container and dispose of it in the trash. 

Some municipalities may offer special disposal services for used grease, so check if this option is available in your area.

How Often Should You Clean Your Grease Trap?

The frequency of cleaning your grease trap depends on several factors, including how often you use your kitchen and the size of the trap. 

As a general rule, it’s recommended to clean your grease trap at least once every 3 to 6 months.

High-traffic kitchens: If you cook frequently or run a commercial kitchen, you may need to clean your grease trap more often, such as once every month or two.

Low-traffic kitchens: For households where the kitchen is used less frequently, cleaning every 6 months should suffice.

Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain the efficiency of your grease trap and avoid blockages, foul odours, and potential plumbing issues.

Common Problems with Grease Traps and How to Solve Them

Although cleaning your grease trap is a simple process, there are a few common problems you may encounter over time. Here’s how to address them:

1. Foul Odours

If your grease trap starts to smell, it may be due to a buildup of grease or food particles that weren’t properly removed during cleaning. 

Ensure you thoroughly clean the trap and lid, and consider using a deodoriser specifically designed for grease traps.

2. Slow Draining

If water is draining slowly from the trap, it could be clogged. Clean out any debris or grease that might be obstructing the flow of water and rinse the trap thoroughly.

3. Leaks

Leaks can occur around the trap’s lid or connections, which can cause grease to escape into your plumbing system. 

Check the lid for proper sealing and inspect the connections for any damage. If you find any issues, consider replacing the faulty parts or sealing them with plumber’s tape.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. How often should I clean my grease trap?

It’s recommended to clean your grease trap at least every 3 to 6 months, depending on usage. High-traffic kitchens may need more frequent cleanings.

2. Can I pour the grease from my grease trap down the drain?

No, pouring grease down the drain can cause blockages. Dispose of it in a sealed container in the trash or check if your area has a special disposal service.

3. What should I do if my grease trap smells bad?

If your grease trap emits a foul odour, clean it thoroughly, paying attention to all corners and the lid. You can also use a grease trap deodoriser to neutralise the smell.

Conclusion

Cleaning your grease trap is an essential task for maintaining a well-functioning kitchen. 

Regular maintenance ensures that your plumbing remains in good condition, prevents unpleasant odours, and keeps your home free from grease-related problems. 

By following the steps outlined above and keeping an eye on your grease trap’s condition, you can ensure your kitchen stays clean, safe, and free from potential plumbing issues.