How to Clean andService a GreaseTrap in New Zealand

How to Clean and Service a Grease Trap in New Zealand

Maintaining your grease trap is crucial for keeping your wastewater system efficient and compliant with New Zealand regulations. Regular cleaning prevents blockages, bad odors, and costly plumbing issues. Below is a step-by-step guide to cleaning and servicing your grease trap in line with NZ best practices.

How Often Should You Clean a Grease Trap?

Households

Every 3 to 6 months

Restaurants & Commercial Kitchens

Every 1 to 4 weeks, depending on usage

Council Requirements: Some local councils have strict guidelines on grease trap maintenance. Check with your local authority for compliance rules.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Grease Trap

Gather Necessary Tools

Rubber gloves and safety goggles
Scraper or spatula
Wet/dry vacuum or small bucket
Heavy-duty garbage bags
Non-toxic degreaser
Replacement filters (if applicable)

Shut Down Water Flow

Before cleaning, ensure that no wastewater is running through the system. This prevents additional grease buildup while you work.

Open the Grease Trap Lid

Carefully remove the lid. Some grease traps may have bolts or screws that need to be loosened. Avoid damaging the gasket or seals.

Skim Off the Grease Layer

Using a scraper, remove the top layer of grease and fat that has solidified. This should be placed in a sealed garbage bag for disposal.

Remove Water and Sludge

Use a wet/dry vacuum or bucket to remove the liquid and sludge at the bottom. Be cautious not to spill wastewater.

With the waste water its can be dumped at the local RV dump station or broken down on site by feeding into a large full domestic composting bin.

Scrub the Interior

Before cleaning, ensure that no wastewater is running through the system. This prevents additional grease buildup while you work.

Inspect for Damage

Apply a non-toxic degreaser and use a brush to scrub the inside of the trap. Remove any leftover grease deposits and rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Reassemble and Restart

Secure the lid back in place and ensure all connections are properly sealed before allowing wastewater to flow again.

Well done you are now back in business: Take notes as to when you last cleaned the Grease Trap and the next service/cleaning date

Phone

0800 022 027

sales@wctnz.co.nz