No, It's Not the Fault of Your Grease Trap Provider

Although that naturally might be the first thought that comes to mind.  Where, then, is the smell coming from? 

Over time, the seal around the manhole cover (the opening to the grease trap behind your store or in the parking area) can deteriorate. This allows gasses to escape your grease trap and waft into your restaurant. If that’s the case, a simple gasket repair can solve the problem.

It’s More Likely That It’s How Your Trap Was Cleaned

The type of grease trap service performed may be regulated by municipalities, with some permitting a pump-and-return method. With pump-and-return, the FOG material (fats, oils, greases and solids) can be removed and taken away with the service provider. However, with this method, the separated gray water is returned to your grease trap.  

While it may not sound logical (it's good to get rid of all the gunk, right?), pump-and-return is the preferred method—if allowed by the governing authority—because your trap is never allowed to become completely dry.  

Unfortunately, if your restaurant is in an area where only dry pumping is permitted—or perhaps that’s the only method your service partner provides—all contents of the trap must be removed. This leaves your trap bone dry until you start to run liquids into it again. This dry state allows gasses to form, which can cause the rank smell that greeted you the next morning. 

Ask Your Provider If Pump-and-Return Is an Option In Your Area

Because some trap service providers only operate one type of service. While your municipality may allow for pump and return, your provider may not offer it. It pays to check for a provider who can service your traps in the most efficient way that meets both your needs and your municipality's ordinances.

Here's What To Do If You Notice an Odor From Your Empty Trap

Once you've determined it's not a problem with the seal around the manhole cover, start running water in your kitchen as you would normally do. As you begin preparations for your lunch crowd, that water will begin to flow into your grease trap and the smell will dissipate as the water starts filling up the grease trap again.

Another suggestion is to take a small pitcher of water mixed with baking soda and pour it down your floor drains. The baking soda will help eliminate that odor a little faster by acting as a non-hazardous filter.

If a full pump service is the only option you have, ask your provider to clean your trap soon after closing so that there is additional time for any odor to dissipate.

 

Call DAR PRO for Your Grease Trap Solutions 

For reliable, professionally serviced grease traps with fleet options that can provide for any municipality's restrictions, call DAR PRO today.

DAR PRO Solutions is a thought leader in the industry for used cooking oil collection and grease trap services. Our innovative equipment solutions, strong customer support and service expertise will make handling grease a worry-free part of your business.


Reach out to a DAR PRO representative today and find out how your ghost kitchen or restaurant can benefit from our partnership. Call us 24/7/365 at 855-DAR-PRO1 (877)-442-5606.

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09/19/2017