Figured out a trick for clearing grease traps without the nasty splashback

Was dreading the monthly grease trap cleanout at that diner on 5th Street. Trying to break the crust with a paddle always got grease all over my boots. Stuck a section of 4 inch PVC pipe down into the trap first to create a barrier before I went in with the scoop and it actually worked. Anyone else got a simple hack that saves you from getting drenched in nasty stuff?

3 comments

3 Comments

joelthomas1mo ago

You ever try sealing the top of that PVC pipe with an old inner tube or something to keep the splash from coming up the sides? Seems like the grease would still bubble around the pipe if you're breaking a thick crust. @the_julia, I think I'd rather replace my boots than test that trick without a better seal. A buddy of mine runs a kitchen supply shop and swears by using a wet/dry vacuum with a long hose attachment for the liquid layer before you touch the solids. Cuts down the mess by a lot, but it only works if you've got a good vac that won't clog. How's the pipe holding up after a few uses - does it start to warp from the heat?

the_julia1mo ago

Damn, that's genius. My boots are still recovering from last month's surprise grease shower.

davis.casey1mo ago

Had a friend once who tried the cardboard trick under her desk chair at work. Forgot about it, stood up too fast, and the whole thing slid into a trash can. Classic move, right @the_julia?