Running a commercial kitchen in Arizona comes with its fair share of responsibilities—and your grease trap is one of the biggest. It’s not just about following health codes or avoiding backups. It’s about keeping your business compliant, efficient, and environmentally safe. One thing that often causes confusion in this process is the use of grease trap chemical additives.
Why Are Grease Trap Chemical Additives a Problem?
Many companies promote additives as a “quick fix” for slow-draining sinks or odor issues. These products claim to break down grease, dissolve sludge, or improve flow. The problem is, they don’t actually remove the grease. They just liquefy it temporarily, allowing it to move farther down the line. That may seem helpful in the short term, but it causes much bigger issues downstream.
When grease gets pushed out of the trap and into the sewer system, it re-solidifies and contributes to blockages, backups, and environmental damage. In Arizona, this kind of discharge is a serious violation. If your grease trap is bypassed or fails due to chemical use, your business could face fines, shutdowns, or worse.
Chemical Additives Are Not a Long-Term Solution
Using chemicals in your grease trap also interferes with your required service schedule. If inspectors see your trap has no buildup, but no recent service records exist, it raises red flags. It can also destroy the natural bacteria that help break down organic matter, leaving your trap less effective over time.
The truth is, there’s no substitute for proper pumping and maintenance. That means regular service, accurate recordkeeping, and working with a certified provider who understands Arizona’s commercial wastewater regulations.
Stay Compliant and Skip the Shortcuts
At HomeField Onsite Environmental, we service commercial kitchens across Arizona every day. We’ve seen the damage chemical additives can cause, and we know how to keep your system working without taking risky shortcuts.
If your trap keeps backing up or draining slowly, don’t reach for a bottle. Call us. We’ll inspect the system, recommend the right cleaning schedule, and make sure your business stays compliant and clog-free.
