Preventing Drain Clogs in Commercial Kitchen Sinks

Running a commercial kitchen? Then you know every second counts — and drain clogs can bring your operations to a standstill. Recently, our plumbers were called to a restaurant in Oakville where a steel wool scrubber had completely blocked the sink drain, halting kitchen flow during lunch rush.

kitchen sink clogged

Common Causes of Commercial Sink Blockages:

  • Steel wool pads
  • Grease buildup
  • Food debris
  • Broken drain components

Preventive Tips:

✅ Use drain baskets to catch solids
✅ Avoid flushing steel scrubbers or packaging
✅ Implement weekly drain flushing
✅ Schedule camera inspections for high-traffic kitchens


When in doubt, call a licensed plumber familiar with commercial kitchens. At 17 Plumbing & Construction Design Ltd, we specialize in drain cleaning, hydro-jetting, and emergency plumbing for restaurants and cafés across Oakville and the GTA.

Learn more : Commercial Kitchen Plumbing | Floor Drains, Grease Traps


Commercial Kitchen Sink Maintenance Tips

  1. Install a Drain Basket or Strainer
    Prevent food waste, scrubbers, and debris from entering the drain by using a commercial-grade strainer.
  2. Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Sink
    Grease solidifies in pipes. Always use a grease trap and clean it regularly to avoid blockages.
  3. Use Enzyme Drain Cleaners Weekly
    Safe biological enzymes can help break down organic buildup without damaging your pipes.
  4. Flush the Sink with Boiling Water
    At the end of each shift, flushing the drain with hot water helps remove soap scum and grease residue.
  5. Train Staff on Proper Waste Disposal
    Many clogs come from improper sink use. A quick training can save major plumbing issues.


When in doubt, call a licensed plumber familiar with commercial kitchens. At 17 Plumbing & Construction Design Ltd, we specialize in drain cleaning, hydro-jetting, and emergency plumbing for restaurants and cafés across Oakville and the GTA.

You can read more about our "Clogged Drain Services" here: Drain Cleaning Services Oakville | 24/7 Clogged Drain Repair


Contact us for more info:

Contact 17 Plumbing | Oakville 24/7 Emergency Licensed Plumber



Q&A for Commercial Kitchen Sinks

Q: What causes frequent clogs in commercial kitchen sinks?
A: The main culprits are grease buildup, food debris, and items like steel wool scrubbers. Regular drain cleaning helps prevent this.

Q: Do I need a grease trap for my restaurant sink?
A: Yes, local plumbing codes often require grease traps. They prevent grease from entering sewer lines and causing blockages.

Q: How often should I clean my commercial sink drain?
A: We recommend professional cleaning every 3–6 months, depending on usage and volume.

Q: Can I use regular drain cleaners in a commercial sink?
A: No. Most chemical cleaners are too harsh and can damage your plumbing. Use enzyme-based cleaners or schedule professional service.

Q: How do I know if my commercial sink is clogged?
A: Slow draining, bad odors, or water backing up are signs of a clog. Contact a licensed plumber before it worsens.

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