What Is a Grease Trap?
A Grease Trap is a plumbing device that catches fats, oils, and grease before wastewater enters a drain line. The trap slows the flow so grease can cool and separate from water. Food scraps and solid debris may also collect inside. Regular cleaning keeps the device from restricting drainage or releasing grease downstream.
Quick Facts About Grease Trap
Category
Drain protection device
Used for
Capturing fats, oils, and grease
Common confusion
It differs from a sink trap
Also called
Grease Interceptor
Often discussed with
Drain Cleaning
Key Takeaways About Grease Trap
- A grease trap separates grease from flowing wastewater.
- The device needs cleaning when grease and solids build up.
- A grease trap is not the same as a regular sink trap.
How Grease Trap Works
A Grease Trap slows wastewater as it passes through a small tank or chamber. Grease floats toward the top because it is lighter than water. Water continues through the outlet while grease and heavier solids remain inside.
Related glossary terms: Trap, Cleanout, Drain Snake.
Cleaning removes the stored grease and sediment before buildup restricts the outlet. A drain trap under a sink blocks sewer gas with standing water, while a grease trap separates waste from water. Some larger systems are called grease interceptors, but the basic separation process is similar.
Plumbers may inspect the inlet, outlet, cover, and nearby drain line during drain cleaning. These checks help show whether a blockage sits inside the trap or farther along the pipe.
Expert Note
When we handle drain cleaning near a grease trap, we check how wastewater enters and leaves the device. We look for buildup inside the trap and signs that grease has moved into the connected drain line. Our team also checks access points before cleaning.
Grease Trap in Practice: A Real-World Example
A kitchen sink may drain slowly when grease coats the trap outlet. During drain cleaning, a plumber can inspect the trap and connected pipe to find where the restriction begins.
Related Services
Related Terms
Trap
A trap is a curved or chambered section of drainpipe that holds water and blocks sewer…
Cleanout
A cleanout is an accessible opening in a drain or sewer pipe. Its removable cap lets…
Drain Snake
A Drain Snake is a flexible plumbing tool that clears blockages from drain pipes. The cable…
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