Grease Trap Cleaning FAQ
For facilities who are a part of the Eganix Overwatch Digital Compliance Program through their municipality.
Why did I receive that notice email?
You received this email because our records indicate your grease trap/interceptor may be due for cleaning, inspection, or maintenance based on local requirements or your regular service schedule.
I sent in my cleaning invoice already. Why am I getting another email?
The reminder email Eganix sends about your grease trap/interceptor cleaning is automated and not monitored. Please make sure you sent it to eganix@reporting.com. If you sent it to the correct email address, please make sure the receipt is current, not a receipt from a past cleaning.
What is a grease trap?
A grease trap (or grease interceptor) is a plumbing device designed to capture fats, oils, and grease (FOG) before they enter the sanitary sewer system.
Why is grease trap cleaning important?
Regular cleaning helps:
• Prevent sewer backups and plumbing problems
• Reduce odors
• Maintain compliance with local ordinances
• Protect the public sewer system
• Avoid costly emergency repairs or fines
Would a health inspector care about my grease trap?
Yes, health inspectors are responsible for helping ensure that food service establishments operate in a safe and sanitary manner. A poorly maintained grease trap can contribute to:
• Unpleasant odors inside or outside the facility
• Drain backups and wastewater overflows
• Unsanitary conditions in food preparation areas
• Increased pest and insect activity
• Potential health and sanitation concerns
Health inspectors may take note of grease management issues during routine inspections if they create sanitation or public health concerns. Keeping your grease trap properly maintained helps protect your business, your customers, and your facility.
How often does my grease trap need to be cleaned?
Many businesses are required to clean when the trap reaches 25% accumulation of grease and solids, while others follow a set schedule, such as monthly or quarterly.
Cleaning frequency depends on:
• Size of the grease trap/interceptor
• Type of business
• Volume of food preparation
• Local regulations
Is grease trap cleaning required by the city?
Yes. Municipalities require food service establishments and certain businesses to properly maintain grease traps/interceptors to prevent fats, oils, and grease from entering the sewer system.
What happens if I do not clean my grease trap?
Failure to maintain your grease trap may result in:
• Sewer backups
• Plumbing issues
• Odor complaints
• Sanitation issues
• Additional inspections or enforcement actions
• Surcharges and/or fines
How do I know if my grease trap has already been cleaned?
If your grease trap has recently been serviced, please provide a copy of the cleaning manifest or receipt that clearly shows the cleaning date.
Who can clean my grease trap?
Grease traps/interceptors should be serviced by a licensed or qualified grease hauling/service company.
Can I clean the grease trap myself?
Small indoor grease traps may sometimes be self-maintained if allowed by local regulations. Large grease interceptors generally require professional pumping and disposal services.
What documentation do I need to keep?
Many municipalities require records to be kept on-site for a certain period of time.
Please retain:
• Pumping manifests
• Service invoices
• Maintenance logs
• Inspection records
What if I no longer operate a food service business?
Please contact us so we can update our records and review whether grease trap requirements still apply to your location.
I believe I received this email in error. What should I do?
Please contact our office and provide any relevant information or documentation so we can review your account.
Who do I contact if I have questions that have not been addressed here?
Please contact:
• (866) 823-1307
• reporting@eganix.com
Or contact your grease trap service provider for maintenance-related questions.