Commercial kitchens like those found at restaurants and other eateries are bustling hubs of activity, with food preparation, dishwashing and cleaning happening around the clock. While all this action keeps restaurants running smoothly, it can also result in clogged drains if not managed properly.
Clogged and blocked restaurant drains are a problem because they disrupt business operations, pose health hazards and can lead to costly repairs if there’s extensive damage. Preventing the issue from occurring in the first place is the best way forward, ensuring a clean working environment that doesn’t put off your guests or damage profit margins.
Regular maintenance via CCTV drain surveys, proper training and preventative measures can go a long way in keeping your restaurant drains clear and functioning correctly. Here’s everything you need to know.
What are the signs your restaurant drain is blocked?
So, how do you know if your restaurant drain is blocked? Signs to look out for include slow drainage from sinks, unpleasant odours coming from drains (often caused by food debris backups) and gurgling noises in your kitchen pipes.
If you notice any of these warning signs, arrange a professional drain survey as soon as possible to find out what’s happening in the system.
How do you stop restaurant drains from clogging?
Preventing drain blockages in a commercial kitchen involves proactive maintenance. One of the leading causes of blocked and overflowing drains is fat build-ups. Many restaurant kitchens introduce grease traps to capture things like oil and fat so they never enter the drainage system.
You should also train your kitchen staff on proper food waste disposal, emphasising the importance of scraping plates and pans before washing them instead of letting extra debris enter your drains.
Always schedule professional drain maintenance throughout the year and busy times to stay on top of clogged pipes, including surveys to identify problems early.
Can restaurant drains be cleared easily?
While some minor blockages can be cleared via simple methods, severe clogs will need a professional drain company to manage the problem. Attempting to remove a stubborn blockage yourself may cause further damage to the pipes or drainage system.
One of the best techniques for clearing commercial drains is hydro-jetting. This is where long hoses attached to water tanks use high-pressure jets to blast away any matter blocking the system without damaging the internal structure of the pipes. It’s fast, effective and perfect for busy commercial kitchens that need to ensure operations remain on track.
Do you need a CCTV drain survey at your commercial kitchen?
If you suspect your restaurant drains are persistently blocked or you want to be more proactive in preventing issues, schedule regular CCTV drain surveys. You may also want one before restaurant renovations take place, assessing the condition of existing drainpipes and identifying any necessary repairs.
A professional drain surveyor will use a camera to inspect the interiors of your drainage pipes, receiving live footage of what’s happening, unearthing hidden problems.
Get in touch to book a commercial CCTV drain survey
If you need a commercial drain survey at your restaurant near London or Essex, please contact our team. Get a free quote from The Drain Survey Company on 020 4538 4399.
