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How do I Seal a Grease Trap?

Jean Asta

Grease traps normally have a capacity of up to 50 gallons, and they attach to sinks in homes or restaurants. Cleaning traps on a regular basis keeps them in working order and keeps debris from clogging up the system. When you clean out the grease trap inspect the gasket at the bottom of the trap to ensure that there is a solid seal, or improve the seal if necessary.

Trap grease in a sealed grease trap.
  1. Contact the local solid waste department to inquire about regulations regarding grease disposal. Local regulations may impact which type of container you use to contain the drained grease.

  2. Put on protective eye glasses and rubber gloves. Line the garbage can with all of the liners. Pour enough absorbent material (floor dry or kitty litter) to cover the bottom of the trash can.

  3. Remove the lid from the grease trap. Dip out the contents of the grease trap with the scoop or vacuum them out with the wet /dry vacuum. Continue removal until the grease trap is empty.

  4. Scrape down the interior of the grease trap to remove all of the grease. Wipe out any additional grease with the towels or rags.

  5. Inspect the trap drain. Remove the drain assembly using the Allen wrench and screwdriver, paying attention to how you disassemble the parts so that you can put them back together again.

  6. Install a rubber or silicone gasket around the drain to create a seal. Do not use any liquid sealant unless instructed to do so by the grease trap manufacturer's instructions.

  7. Reassemble the drain assembly and reinstall it into the grease trap. Properly dispose of the grease according to the requirements of your local municipal code.