Down the Drain | Drain Cleaning Guide for Restaurant Staff

Every detail counts toward delivering a seamless dining experience in the bustling world of restaurant kitchens. One often overlooked aspect is drain maintenance. It's crucial for restaurant staff to be well-versed in effective drain care to prevent serious plumbing issues and to understand when they can tackle an issue themselves or when to call in the professionals.
 

Adopt Daily Drain Routines
A daily routine is vital in preventing drain blockages. Staff should be trained to regularly dispose of waste properly – never down the sink. Grease, food particles, and other debris should be scrapped into the trash or a compost bin, not washed down the drain. The installation of sink strainers in all sinks will aid in the effort to prevent waste from going down the drain. Strainers catch food particles and can be easily cleaned. Ensuring all staff members know the importance of not removing these strainers is key to proficient and professional kitchen operations. Another important aspect of a daily drain routine in a commercial kitchen is flushing drains with hot water at the end of each day. This helps dissolve any grease or oil that might have accumulated. It's a simple yet effective step that can be integrated into closing routines. Encourage a culture where staff feel responsible for drain care. Simple practices like wiping down plates and pans before washing can make a significant difference. Conducting regular training sessions to reinforce best practices. New hires should be given thorough training as part of their induction.

Know the Warning Signs
Train your staff to notice if water is draining slower than usual. This is often the first sign of a developing blockage. Gurgling sounds can indicate trapped air due to a blockage. Staff should be aware of these changes in the sounds from the drains. A persistent bad smell from the drain might suggest that trapped food particles are decomposing. It's a clear sign that the drain needs attention.

Enact Emergency Procedures
If a clog arises, instruct staff to stop using the sink immediately to prevent water from overflowing. They should then use a plunger to try and dislodge any superficial blockage. Caution staff against the use of chemical drain cleaners. These can damage plumbing over time and are often not suitable for heavy-use commercial kitchen drains. If these measures fail, staff must be empowered to call in professionals like Zoom Drain, whose trained drain and sewer experts have the experience and equipment necessary to resolve the issue without causing damage to the plumbing system.

Prevention is Better than the Cure
While being prepared for emergencies is always necessary, prevention is often better than the cure. Zoom Drain, a leading drain and sewer industry expert, offers planned maintenance plans to provide routine cleanings and diagnostics. This upkeep will keep your plumbing in top shape and help avoid emergencies.

Effective drain maintenance in a restaurant setting is not just about responding to blockages but preventing them. Incorporating these best practices into your staff training creates a proactive environment that prioritizes cleanliness and efficiency and scheduling routine maintenance through experts like Zoom Drain, who also can help in emergency situations, is paramount.