Introduction
Imagine your restaurant’s kitchen suddenly backing up with foul-smelling wastewater—all because of a neglected Fettfass (grease trap). Over 60% of plumbing emergencies in food-service businesses are caused by grease buildup, leading to costly repairs and health violations (National Restaurant Association, 2023).
A well-maintained Fettfass is crucial for:
✔ Preventing drain blockages and sewage backups
✔ Avoiding fines from environmental regulators
✔ Reducing long-term maintenance costs
✔ Keeping your business running smoothly
In this guide, you’ll learn how a Fettfass works, step-by-step maintenance, common mistakes to avoid, and expert tips to maximize efficiency.
1. What Is a Fettfass & Why Is It Important?
A Fettfass (German for “fat trap”) is a device that captures fats, oils, and grease (FOG) before they enter wastewater systems. Common in restaurants, cafeterias, and industrial kitchens, it prevents:
- Clogged pipes (FOG hardens and sticks to sewer lines)
- Sewer overflows (which can lead to fines up to €5,000+ in Germany)
- Bad odors & bacterial growth
Did You Know?
- 1 liter of improperly disposed cooking oil can contaminate 1 million liters of water (European Environment Agency).
- Restaurants without proper grease traps face 30% higher plumbing costs (Facilities Management Journal, 2024).
2. How Often Should You Clean Your Fettfass?
| Usage Level | Recommended Cleaning Frequency |
|---|---|
| High (Commercial kitchens, fast food) | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Moderate (Small restaurants, cafés) | Every 2-3 months |
| Low (Households, occasional use) | Every 6-12 months |
Warning Signs Your Fettfass Needs Cleaning:
🔴 Slow drainage in sinks
🔴 Foul odors near drains
🔴 Visible grease buildup in the trap
3. Step-by-Step Fettfass Maintenance Guide
✅ Step 1: Scrape Food Waste Before Washing
- Never pour grease down the drain—collect it in a sealed container.
- Use strainers to catch food particles.
✅ Step 2: Pump Out & Clean the Trap
- Turn off connected appliances.
- Remove the lid carefully (wear gloves—grease traps can harbor bacteria).
- Scoop out solidified grease with a spatula.
- Use biodegradable degreasers—avoid harsh chemicals that damage pipes.
✅ Step 3: Schedule Professional Inspections
- Experts recommend a full inspection every 6 months.
4. Common Fettfass Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
❌ Mistake 1: Using Hot Water to “Flush” Grease
➡ Why It’s Bad: Hot water liquefies grease, but it re-hardens in pipes.
➡ Fix: Always scrape grease into a bin.
❌ Mistake 2: Ignoring Small Leaks
➡ Why It’s Bad: Leaks can lead to groundwater contamination & fines.
➡ Fix: Check seals monthly and replace worn gaskets.
❌ Mistake 3: Skipping Professional Cleaning
➡ Why It’s Bad: DIY cleaning often misses hidden buildup.
➡ Fix: Hire a certified service annually.
5. Long-Term Benefits of Proper Fettfass Care
✔ Lower plumbing costs (up to 40% savings over 5 years)
✔ Avoid regulatory fines (non-compliance can shut down businesses)
✔ Better hygiene & customer satisfaction (no foul smells!)
Final Tip: Keep a Maintenance Log
Track cleanings, inspections, and repairs to prove compliance during audits.
Need Help? Book a professional Fettfass service today—prevent disasters before they happen!
