Running a restaurant is a major responsibility, and you need to take basic precautions to ensure your commercial kitchen runs efficiently. One of the most common problems to afflict many facilities is a clogged drain, which can significantly slow down operations and even have an impact on your bottom line. Drain cleaning is key, but there are steps you can take to prevent the problem in the first place. Here’s what you need to know.

How to Prevent a Clogged Restaurant Drain

1. Avoid Draining FOGs

Three of the most harmful substances to any type of drain are fats, oil, and grease, collectively referred to as FOG. Once they’re rinsed down, they quickly stick to the sides of the pipes and slowly build up. Eventually, a stubborn blockage develops that requires expert drain cleaning. This issue is particularly prevalent in commercial kitchens, where these types of ingredients are commonly used. You can prevent them from solidifying in the pipes by transferring the substances into a separate container or into a piece of foil and throwing it in the trash can.

2. Clean Grease Traps

In case these substances do go down the drain, grease traps are there to help. All commercial kitchens depend on these devices to intercept the majority of grease and solid items before they have a chance to intrude on the pipes. In general, they reduce how much FOG goes down the drain, but they need to be cleaned regularly to remain efficient. Doing so prevents noxious odors and reduces the potential for blockages considerably. Depending on your restaurant’s schedule and grease trap usage, it’s best to have a grease trap cleaning professional handle the job at least once every three months.

3. Trust Hot Water

Flushing hot water down the drain after rinsing plates, pots, and pans will quickly rinse away any fats or oils that may accidentally go down the drain. But the key is to act quickly — once the materials solidify they won’t budge. You can also pour a full cup of vinegar down a clogged drain at the first sign of sluggishness. Bear in mind that vinegar isn’t a permanent solution to the problem, and that you may need a drain cleaning professional to address a difficult blockage.

Restaurant owners throughout Coldwater, MS, and surrounding areas trust the professionals at A-1 Septic Tank & Drain Service. The family-owned company offers a wide range of services designed to improve your daily operations, including drain cleaning and grease trap cleaning. They can also tackle issues with your sewer system. Visit them online to learn more, or call (662) 233-4565 to arrange a free estimate today.