Grease Trap Services for Commercial Kitchens in Maryland
Running a commercial kitchen in Maryland—whether in a restaurant, cafeteria, hotel, or food truck—means staying on top of sanitation, safety, and compliance. One key area that often gets overlooked is the grease trap. While it may not be the most glamorous piece of kitchen equipment, your grease trap plays a vital role in keeping your kitchen running smoothly and your business compliant with state and local regulations.
At Colson’s Septic Services, we’ve seen firsthand what happens when grease traps are neglected. In this blog, we’ll explain what grease traps are, why they matter, and what Maryland commercial kitchen owners need to know about proper grease trap maintenance and services.
What Is a Grease Trap?
A grease trap, also known as a grease interceptor, is a plumbing device designed to capture fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from wastewater before it enters the municipal sewer system. These substances are byproducts of cooking and food preparation, and if not properly managed, they can solidify and cause major clogs in pipes, damage municipal infrastructure, and lead to expensive repairs and fines.
Grease traps are typically installed either under the sink or outside the building in an underground tank. As wastewater flows through the trap, it slows down, allowing the heavier solids to settle at the bottom, the lighter FOG to rise to the top, and the cleaner water to pass through to the sewer.
Why Are Grease Trap Services Important?
Over time, FOG and food solids build up in the trap, reducing its efficiency and risking overflow or blockages. Without regular cleaning and maintenance, this buildup can lead to:
- Backups and foul odors: Overflowing grease traps can cause wastewater to back up into your kitchen or floor drains, creating unsanitary and dangerous working conditions.
- Plumbing damage: FOG hardens as it cools, which can lead to costly damage in your plumbing system.
- Fines and shutdowns: Maryland counties enforce strict grease trap regulations. Failure to comply with inspection and maintenance standards can result in penalties or even temporary closure.
- Environmental harm: When grease enters the sewer system, it can contribute to “fatbergs”—massive blockages that damage public wastewater infrastructure and harm the environment.
What’s Involved in Grease Trap Services?
At Colson’s Septic Services, we offer comprehensive grease trap services tailored to the needs of Maryland commercial kitchens. Our process typically includes:
- Inspection
We begin by inspecting the trap for any signs of damage, excessive buildup, or improper installation. This helps ensure your equipment is functioning efficiently and in compliance with local codes. - Pumping and Cleaning
We remove all contents from the grease trap, including fats, oils, grease, and solid food waste. Then we thoroughly clean the interior walls and components to prevent future buildup and ensure optimal flow. - Documentation and Compliance Reports
Maryland jurisdictions often require businesses to maintain service records for grease trap maintenance. We provide detailed documentation for your records and, if needed, submit compliance reports to local authorities. - Scheduling Regular Maintenance
Every kitchen is different, and grease trap cleaning frequency depends on factors like kitchen size, menu, and hours of operation. We’ll help you establish a customized service schedule—usually every 30 to 90 days—to keep your trap functioning properly.
Maryland Regulations to Know
Maryland counties, including Anne Arundel, Carroll, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s, have specific grease management ordinances. Most require:
- Installation of properly sized grease interceptors
- Routine pumping and cleaning (minimum quarterly, but often more frequent for high-volume kitchens)
- Maintaining a logbook of cleaning dates and service reports
- Compliance with FOG discharge limits
Failing to meet these requirements can result in fines, surcharges, or mandatory plumbing repairs. Staying ahead of the game with routine service from a trusted provider like Colson’s Septic Services can help you avoid these headaches.
Choose Colson’s for Reliable Grease Trap Services
As a family-owned business serving Maryland for decades, Colson’s Septic Services understands the unique needs of local food establishments. Our licensed technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and follow industry best practices to provide fast, reliable, and environmentally responsible grease trap services.
Whether you’re operating a bustling restaurant in Baltimore or a school cafeteria in Frederick, we’re here to help you stay compliant, avoid costly downtime, and maintain a safe, clean kitchen environment.
Contact Colson’s Septic Services today to schedule your next grease trap cleaning or inspection—and discover why so many Maryland businesses trust us for all their septic and waste management needs.