Nothing messes up a nice shower like water not going down the drain. If you’re standing there with water pooling around your feet, chances are you have a slow or clogged shower drain. And let’s be honest—it’s not just annoying, it’s also kind of gross. If you ignore it, it could even cause bigger plumbing problems later on.

In Arizona, this happens a lot. Hair, soap, hard water buildup, and even sand from outside can clog your pipes. What used to be a quick-draining shower can turn into a slow, frustrating mess. If you’re reading this, maybe you’ve already tried some DIY fixes. Or maybe you’re wondering how bad it has to get before it’s time to call a plumber.

In this blog, we’ll go over the safest ways to unclog your drain, when it’s time to bring in a local Arizona pro, and how to keep your shower draining smoothly moving forward.

Shower Drain Clogged? How to Unblock a Clogged Shower Drain

Try a few proven, plumber-approved methods before you panic and reach for a harsh chemical drain cleaner. Many clogs are caused by hair, soap buildup, or small debris that can be removed without too much trouble.

  • Use a Drain Snake or Hair Removal Tool

You’ve probably seen them at the hardware store—they’re long, thin, and have little barbs along the sides. Nothing fancy, but they do the job. They’re made to grab hair and other gunk stuck in your drain so you can pull it out by hand. Not the prettiest job, but it works—and honestly, it’s pretty satisfying to see all that junk come out.

To start, you’ll need to remove the drain cover. Some pop off with a firm pull, but others might need a screwdriver. Once it’s off, slowly feed the plastic snake down into the drain. When you feel it hit something, that’s your clog. Give it a little twist, then pull it back out. Most of the time, you’ll pull up a wad of hair, soap scum, or something equally gross. It’s not fun to look at—but that’s what’s been blocking your water from draining.

Toss that mess in the trash, rinse off the snake, and run some hot water down the drain. With any luck, the water should flow much faster now. If it’s still a bit slow, you can try again or follow up with some baking soda and vinegar to clear out whatever’s left.

This quick fix is super affordable, doesn’t require any chemicals, and works more often than you’d think. It’s a great first step before calling in a plumber—and if you live with people who shed a lot of hair, it’s a tool worth keeping around.

  • Try a Baking Soda and Vinegar Flush

If you have a clogged shower drain, but it’s not completely blocked, a natural flush with baking soda and vinegar can break down soft clogs and deodorize your pipes. Start by pouring about half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by one cup of white vinegar. You’ll hear fizzing—this is the chemical reaction doing its job. Let the mixture sit for 15 to 30 minutes. During that time, it will work to loosen soap scum, grime, and organic material.

After the wait, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to flush everything away. This method is gentle on pipes and great for regular maintenance. But for stubborn or deep-set clogs, it may not be strong enough.

  • Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum

Set the vacuum to the wet setting. Then grab the hose and place it right over the drain. The key here is making a tight seal so the suction actually pulls something out. You can wrap a towel around the hose or even use duct tape to help seal it up.

Once everything’s in place, turn the vacuum on and let it run for a bit. You might hear a slurping sound—and if it works, you’ll probably suck up some hair, gunk, or even sand that’s been sitting in there. It’s a little gross, yeah, but it can make a big difference if your drain has been draining super slowly.

Afterward, make sure to clean out your vacuum. This is definitely one of those “not fun but worth it” kind of jobs.

When to Call an Arizona Plumber

  • When DIY Drain Cleaning Doesn’t Work

Some blockages are deeper in the plumbing system, especially if your home has older pipes or if you’ve been dealing with recurring issues.

If you’ve used a snake, flushed with vinegar, and even tried a wet/dry vacuum, and the shower drain is clogged still, it’s time for an expert diagnosis. A licensed Arizona plumber can use specialized tools like drain cameras and hydro-jetting machines to pinpoint and remove even the most stubborn clogs without damaging your pipes.

Don’t waste time guessing. If your shower drains slowly after multiple attempts, get help before the problem worsens.

  • When You Notice Water Backing Up in Multiple Drains

A single shower drain clog is frustrating, but if you notice water backing up in your sink, tub, or toilet, too, you may be dealing with a more significant issue in your main sewer line. This clog isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a serious plumbing emergency. Left untreated, it can lead to sewage backups and costly repairs.

Tree roots, grease buildup, or collapsed pipes usually cause these deeper blockages. DIY tools won’t fix this. Call an Arizona plumber immediately if you notice multiple slow drains or hear gurgling sounds from your fixtures.

  • When You Smell Foul Odors Coming from the Drain

Your shower should smell clean, not like a sewer. If you detect foul, musty, or rotting odors from your shower drain, it could mean something nasty is stuck in your pipes. Decomposing hair, soap scum, or food particles (if your bathroom plumbing connects to a kitchen line) can release odors over time. Worse, foul smells might indicate mold growth or bacteria buildup inside the drain or p-trap.

If baking soda and vinegar don’t fix it, especially if the smell gets stronger when water runs, it’s time to call a plumber. A professional can sanitize the pipes and identify if something more serious is happening in your plumbing system.

  • What if My Shower Drain Smells But Is Not Clogged?

Sometimes, the smell has nothing to do with a clog at all. If your shower isn’t used frequently (like in a guest bathroom), the water in the p-trap may have evaporated. That little pool of water in the pipe is supposed to block sewer gases. When it dries up, odors seep through.

Try running hot water down the drain for a few minutes to refill the trap. If that doesn’t help, the smell could come from mold in the drain cover, biofilm buildup, or a venting issue in your plumbing system. These are solvable, but some require a trained eye and proper tools.

Even if the water flows fine, a persistent odor is a good reason to get an inspection, especially in Arizona’s dry climate, where p-traps dry out faster than in more humid regions.

Clogged Shower Drain Still Won’t Budge? Call Custom Plumbing of Arizona for Fast, Reliable Drain Help

At Custom Plumbing of Arizona, we’ve been clearing clogged shower drains across Phoenix, Glendale, and the surrounding communities since 2001. With decades of experience and the latest equipment, our team quickly handles everything from minor clogs to full-blown sewer issues.Call us today at 602-866-2665 to schedule your free inspection and get your shower running clean and clear again.

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Living in Arizona has its perks—dry heat, beautiful scenery, and winters that don’t feel like winter. But even though our climate is pretty warm, water heaters are still important for our comfort. So, gas vs. electric water heater: which is better? It’s a common question we hear from homeowners.

And it’s a good question—especially as energy prices continue to go up. The type of water heater you choose really does matter.

Even so, we’ve helped lots of homeowners across Arizona with all kinds of plumbing choices, and to be sure—there’s more to it than just saving on your energy bill. It depends on your home, your lifestyle, your budget, and even how long you plan to live in your house.

In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of gas vs electric water heaters, and help you figure out which one makes the most sense for your Arizona home.

What is an Electric Water Heater?

An electric water heater uses electricity to heat your water. Your home’s standard electrical system generally powers these units and is commonly found in tank-style and tankless models. They tend to have a smaller footprint and are often easier to install, especially in homes that don’t have access to a natural gas line.

Electric water heaters send electricity through metal heating elements, which warms the water to your preferred temperature. The system shuts off once that temperature is reached and turns on again as needed. Simple enough?

They’re ideal for smaller households or homes with lower hot water demand and tend to run quietly without venting. However, electricity costs can increase, especially during Arizona’s blazing hot summers when everyone’s energy use spikes.

What is a Gas Water Heater?

Gas water heaters use natural gas or propane to heat your water. In traditional models, there’s a burner at the bottom of the tank that warms the water sitting above it. Tankless gas heaters work a bit differently—they heat the water as it flows through, so you get hot water on demand.

These heaters are a popular choice in homes that already have a gas line. They usually heat water faster than electric ones and can be a great fit for bigger households that use a lot of hot water. Since natural gas is often cheaper than electricity in many parts of Arizona, gas water heaters can save you money in the long run.

That said, there are a few downsides. Gas systems need proper ventilation to safely release fumes, which can make installation a bit more complicated and costly. Also, they should be checked regularly to make sure there aren’t any gas leaks or other safety issues.

 

Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters: What Works Best in Arizona Homes?

Initial Cost

If you’re looking at the upfront cost, electric water heaters are usually the cheaper option. They’re simpler, easier to install, and don’t need a gas line or a vent, which helps keep the cost down. But just because it costs less at first doesn’t mean it’ll stay that way. Electric water heaters can be more expensive to run, especially if your household uses a lot of hot water. Those energy bills can add up over time.

Gas water heaters, on the other hand, usually cost more to install. If your home doesn’t already have a gas line, that can make things more complicated. Plus, you’ll need proper ventilation. Still, gas tends to be cheaper than electricity in Arizona, so you might save money in the long run.

And if you’re thinking about going tankless—whether it’s electric or gas—keep in mind that these systems may need maintenance down the road, just like models that have a  tank. They’re energy-efficient, but like anything else, they can wear out and need repairs or replacement.

Energy Efficiency and Heating Capabilities

Gas water heaters heat water faster and do a better job keeping it hot—great for bigger households. If your family is often showering, doing laundry, and running the dishwasher at the same time, a gas heater could help keep energy bills lower. Electric water heaters can still be a good choice, especially for smaller homes. Some newer models even have features like energy-saving modes or smart thermostats to help cut down on power use.

Arizona’s warm climate also makes a difference. Since the groundwater here isn’t super cold, both types of heaters don’t have to work as hard to heat it up. That gives electric heaters a little boost they might not get in colder places. But if you’ve got a big household or need a lot of hot water often, gas is usually the more energy-efficient pick.

Safety Considerations

Like any home appliance, water heaters come with their own safety concerns—and knowing what to look out for can help you avoid serious problems.

Gas water heaters need regular check-ups to maintain safety. Since they run on gas, there’s always a small risk of gas leaks or carbon monoxide buildup if something isn’t working properly. You’ll also want to keep an eye on the pilot light and burner to make sure they’re functioning the way they should. These types of issues can be dangerous, which is why professional installation and regular inspections are so important. A licensed plumber will know how to install the unit safely and check for any warning signs during routine maintenance.

Electric water heaters might seem safer because they don’t burn fuel, so you won’t have to worry about gas leaks or carbon monoxide. But they still come with risks. If the wiring is done incorrectly, or if the unit is damaged during installation, it can lead to electrical shocks or even fires. Power surges from lightning or poor electrical setups can also cause problems if the system isn’t properly protected.

The good news is that both types of water heaters can be very safe—as long as they’re installed by a licensed professional and maintained regularly. Don’t skip routine check-ups, and make sure you’re working with someone who knows the ins and outs of the system you’re using. It’s a simple step that can give you peace of mind and keep your home safe.

Installation and Maintenance

Electric water heaters are usually easier to install. They don’t need a gas hookup or venting, which simplifies the process. That’s great news for homes that weren’t built with gas lines or don’t have much room to spare. Maintenance is pretty straightforward, too. Aside from occasionally flushing tank models to remove sediment, electric models don’t need much attention unless something breaks down.

Gas water heaters are a little more complex. Because of the combustion process, they require proper venting to eliminate gases like carbon monoxide. That adds to the installation time and cost. You’ll also need to monitor the pilot light and gas lines. Planning to switch to a tankless water heater? Installation becomes even more technical. Always consult a professional to ensure your new system is installed correctly and safely.

Space Requirements

Space matters, especially in Arizona homes where garages and utility closets often double storage areas. Electric water heaters are generally more compact and can be installed in tighter spaces, like under staircases or inside closets. This makes them ideal for townhomes, condos, or older homes with limited space.

Gas units, by contrast, need breathing room. You’ll need to allocate extra space because they require ventilation and often have a larger tank. In some cases, outdoor installation is possible, but you’ll still need to make sure venting and weatherproofing are handled correctly. If you’re renovating or building a new home, it’s worth factoring in these space requirements during the planning phase.

Ready to Install a Gas or Electric Water Heater? Call Custom Plumbing of Arizona Today

Still trying to decide between a gas vs electric water heater for your Arizona home? Let us help you decide! At Custom Plumbing of Arizona, we’ve been helping homeowners just like you make smart, confident plumbing decisions since 2001. If you live in 

Greater Phoenix, our licensed professionals are ready to guide you through the selection, installation, and maintenance process. Call us today at 602-866-2665 to schedule a free inspection. 

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Water heaters last an average of 8 to 12 years, but their lifespan can vary significantly depending on maintenance. Keeping your water heater in top shape prevents surprise breakdowns, boosts efficiency, reduces energy costs, and extends the system’s life. Simple, routine care can save you thousands in repairs or replacements down the road. 

In this blog, we’ll share five water heater maintenance tips that can help extend the life of your unit while improving its performance.

5 Water Heater Maintenance Tips to Extend Its Lifespan

  • Flush the Tank Annually to Remove Sediment Buildup

One of the most important aspects of water heater maintenance is ensuring that sediment doesn’t build up inside the tank. Over time, minerals from the water—like calcium and magnesium—can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, especially if you have hard water. This sediment buildup can lead to inefficient heating, causing the heater to work harder and use more energy to heat the water.

Flushing the tank annually is an easy way to remove this buildup. It helps maintain water heater efficiency by ensuring the heating elements are not covered in sediment. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Turn off the power to your water heater. If it’s electric, shut off the power at the breaker box. For gas heaters, turn off the gas valve.
  2. Shut off the water supply to the heater.
  3. Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and direct it to a suitable drainage area.
  4. Open the drain valve and allow the water to flow out until it runs clear.
  5. Close the valve and refill the tank before turning the power back on.

By flushing your tank once a year, you help avoid overheating, increase the life of your water heater, and keep your water clean!

  • Check and Replace the Anode Rod When Needed

The anode rod plays a critical role in preventing corrosion inside your water heater tank. It attracts the corrosive minerals in the water, preventing the tank from rusting and significantly extending its lifespan. However, the anode rod wears out over time, and once it’s gone, the tank becomes susceptible to rust and deterioration.

If this is the only issue, you don’t need to replace the entire water heater. However, inspecting the anode rod regularly (every 2–3 years) is crucial to maintaining a healthy tank. If the rod is worn down or coated in calcium, it’s time for a replacement. The process typically involves removing the old rod and installing a new one, which a professional plumber can do if you’re unsure how to handle it yourself.

A healthy anode rod can help prevent foundation water damage and costly repairs, saving you the expense of replacing the entire unit prematurely.

  • Inspect the Pressure Relief Valve for Proper Function

The pressure relief valve (PRV) is one of your water heater’s most important safety features. It relieves excess pressure that builds up inside the tank. Without it, your water heater could overheat or, in extreme cases, explode!

To keep it functioning correctly, inspecting the pressure relief valve regularly is important. To test it, follow these steps:

  1. Locate the valve on the side of your water heater.
  2. Lift the lever on the valve (be prepared for a small amount of water to come out).
  3. If water flows out when you lift the lever, the valve is working fine. If no water comes out or the lever feels stuck, the valve may need to be replaced.

A well-maintained pressure relief valve prevents safety hazards and ensures your water heater runs safely and efficiently.

  • Adjust the Thermostat to Prevent Overheating

Many people don’t realize that the thermostat on their water heater plays a crucial role in efficiency and safety. Setting the temperature too high can lead to overheating, which can shorten the lifespan of your unit and raise your energy bills.

The recommended setting for most water heaters is around 120°F (49°C). This temperature is hot enough for most household needs but not so hot that it stresses the system. It’s also the ideal setting to help you save on energy costs, as every 10-degree increase can increase energy consumption by 3–5%.

If you have a smart thermostat for your water heater, ensure it’s calibrated correctly. Checking and adjusting the temperature as needed will help prevent overheating and improve water heater efficiency. Regular thermostat adjustments will keep your unit running smoothly, saving both energy and money.

  • Schedule Professional Water Heater Maintenance Annually

While DIY water heater maintenance is a great way to maintain your water heater, it’s also important to call in the professionals for an annual plumbing inspection. A plumber can assess the overall condition of your water heater, identify potential issues before they become serious problems, and offer expert advice on keeping your system in top shape.

During a professional maintenance visit, the plumber will inspect all the essential components, including the anode rod, thermostat, pressure relief valve, and heating elements. They’ll also check for leaks and any signs of wear or damage. Regular professional inspections help identify problems early, saving you from costly repairs or replacements.

If you’re unsure when your water heater was last serviced or need help with any of the maintenance tasks mentioned above, contact Custom Plumbing of Arizona at 602-866-2665 today to schedule a professional inspection and keep your water heater in top condition!

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Trees add beauty, shade, and character to any property. However, they can also wreak havoc beneath the surface, especially on your sewer lines. A recent study found that tree roots are responsible for nearly 50% of sewer blockages in older neighborhoods. That’s a staggering figure, highlighting how quickly things can spiral out of control when root growth meets aging infrastructure. Tree roots don’t just cause clogs; they can lead to cracks, breakages, and even total pipe failure, turning a simple plumbing issue into a costly nightmare.

In this blog post, we will explore the impact of tree roots in sewer lines and offer practical solutions to protect your plumbing system while maintaining the trees you love.

How Tree Roots Can Damage Your Sewer Lines

Tree roots are uniquely designed to seek water and nutrients, making your sewer lines an ideal target. Attracted by the moisture and organic material flowing inside, they can penetrate the tiniest cracks or weak joints in your pipes. Once inside, roots proliferate, forming dense tangles that obstruct water and waste flow.

As roots expand, they exert pressure on the pipes, which can cause them to crack, burst, or even collapse entirely. Over time, the damage escalates, leading to problems like slow drains, foul odors, and recurring blockages. Root intrusion can create severe plumbing issues that require extensive repair work, such as complete pipe replacement or structural rehabilitation of your sewer system.

Top 3 Tips to Prevent Tree Roots in Sewer Lines

Preventing tree root issues requires a combination of proactive planning and ongoing maintenance. These strategies can help you protect your sewer lines without sacrificing the beauty of your landscape.

  • Install Root Barriers

Installing barriers is one of the most effective ways to prevent tree roots from reaching your sewer lines. Root barriers are physical structures made from wood planks, metal sheets, or heavy-duty plastics placed in the ground between your trees and sewer pipes. They block root growth in that direction by extending at least 6 to 12 inches deeper than the pipe.

Another option is chemical barriers, which involve slow-release compounds like cupric carbonate or trifluralin. These chemicals curb root growth without harming your trees, creating a protective zone around your sewer lines. Root traps or woven screens can also encase root tips for more control, restricting their growth toward vulnerable plumbing. Installing these barriers early ensures that your pipes stay safe from the start.

  • Plant Trees Away from Sewer Lines

Thoughtful tree placement is one of the simplest ways to avoid root-related plumbing issues. Before planting new trees or shrubs, consider their growth patterns and root systems. Some species, such as willows, oaks, and poplars, are known for their aggressive roots, which seek moisture in sewer lines.

Choose trees with less invasive root systems, and always locate your sewer lines before planting. When planting, maintain a distance of at least 10 to 20 feet between trees and sewer lines to minimize the risk of future root intrusion.

  • Schedule Regular Sewer Line Inspections

Even with precautions, sewer lines remain vulnerable to tree roots over time, making regular inspections essential to plumbing maintenance. A professional plumber can assess your system using specialized equipment, such as camera inspections, to detect early signs of root infiltration.

These inspections reveal cracks, blockages, and other potential weak points before they become significant problems. If roots are already present, hydrojetting can effectively remove them without damaging the pipes. Regular maintenance ensures that minor issues don’t snowball into costly repairs and extends the overall life of your sewer system.

Call Custom Plumbing of Arizona for Tree Root Sewer Line Solutions

Tree roots don’t have to spell disaster for your plumbing. Custom Plumbing of Arizona specializes in resolving tree-root-related sewer issues with precision and care. Our experts use cutting-edge tools to identify the problem, whether a small blockage or severe damage, and offer tailored solutions to restore your sewer system to optimal performance.

From hydrojetting to root barrier installation and advanced trenchless repair, we provide comprehensive services that protect your pipes without damaging your landscape. Our proactive approach helps homeowners and businesses avoid tree root problems, saving them time and money in the long run. Don’t wait until tree roots disrupt your plumbing. Call Custom Plumbing of Arizona today at 602-866-2665 to schedule an inspection or service.

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Grease buildup is one of the most common—and costly—problems commercial kitchens face. According to the EPA, improperly maintained grease traps are a leading cause of sewer overflows in restaurants, often resulting in hefty fines and extensive cleanup costs. Grease pit cleaning isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s about protecting your business, maintaining a safe environment, and ensuring smooth operations in your kitchen. As a restaurant owner, you juggle countless responsibilities daily. The last thing you need is a grease trap emergency disrupting your service.

In this blog post, we will explore what every restaurant owner should know about grease pit cleaning.

What is Grease Pit Cleaning?

Cleaning your grease pit is crucial for keeping your kitchen running smoothly and hygienic. Over time, fats, oils, and grease (known as FOG) build up in grease traps or interceptors designed to keep grease out of your plumbing system. This buildup can cause clogs, backups, unpleasant smells, or even environmental harm without proper maintenance. If left unchecked, grease traps can overflow, causing health hazards and potentially forcing operations to shut down. Regular cleaning ensures your kitchen stays safe, functional, and compliant with health codes.

What to Do if the Grease Trap Overflows

Grease trap overflows are messy and stressful, and they can bring your operations to a screeching halt. The good news is that knowing what to do can minimize the damage and help you recover quickly. Here’s what you should do if your grease trap overflows:

Stop Additional Water from Entering the Drains

Turn off any appliances, sinks, or dishwashers connected to the grease trap. This prevents more water from flowing into the system and worsening the backup.

Stay Calm and Call a Professional

Contact a licensed plumber immediately to inspect your grease trap and drainage system. They have the tools and expertise to safely resolve the issue without causing further damage.

Don’t Hose Down the Mess

Grabbing a hose and washing the grease away may be tempting, but this can lead to more significant problems. Spraying grease into storm drains or sewer systems violates environmental regulations and could lead to hefty fines.

Use Cat Litter to Absorb Grease

Believe it or not, cat litter works wonders in soaking up spilled grease. Spread it over the affected area to make cleanup easier and prevent the grease from spreading further.

Let the Professionals Handle the Cleanup

A professional plumber will use advanced equipment, such as cameras and hydro-jetting systems, to inspect and clean your plumbing. They’ll ensure your system is fully operational and guide you on avoiding future overflows.

How Can You Prevent Grease Trap Overflows?

Preventing grease trap problems starts with good maintenance and proactive steps. Regular care keeps your grease trap working correctly and ensures your kitchen stays up and running without interruptions. Here are some practical ways to avoid grease trap overflows:

Schedule Regular Cleanings and Inspections

Routine grease pit cleanings are the most effective way to prevent backups. Work with a trusted professional to set a schedule based on your kitchen’s grease output. Depending on their size and the grease your kitchen produces, most grease traps need servicing every 1-3 months.

Connect All Food Prep Sinks to a Grease Trap

Every sink used in food preparation should be connected to a grease trap. This setup ensures grease and waste are captured before they can clog the plumbing system.

Train Your Team on Proper Waste Disposal

Your staff plays a huge role in preventing grease buildup. Teach them to scrape leftover food from pots and pans into the trash, not the sink. Even small bits of food can accumulate and lead to clogs over time.

Make Sure Your Grease Trap is the Right Size

A grease trap that’s too small won’t keep up with your kitchen’s needs, especially during busy times. Check with a professional to confirm your trap is the right size for your restaurant’s operation.

Never Pour Grease Down the Drain

This one seems obvious, but it’s worth repeating: grease should never go down the drain. Even small amounts can stick to your pipes, build up over time, and cause significant blockages. By following these steps, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of grease trap overflows and keep your kitchen running smoothly daily.

Grease Clogging your Drain? Contact Custom Plumbing of Arizona

A clean drain keeps your kitchen running smoothly and avoids costly repairs or fines. At Custom Plumbing of Arizona, we specialize in drain cleaning and maintenance to help restaurants like yours stay compliant and operational. With 24/7 emergency service, we’re here to assist whenever you need help. Whether it’s routine cleaning or a sudden overflow, our team has the expertise to handle it.

Call us today at 602-866-2665 to schedule your drain cleaning. Protect your restaurant, customers, and peace of mind with reliable service from trustworthy professionals. Keeping your grease trap clean isn’t just about compliance but protecting your business, staff, and customers. With the proper maintenance routine and expert help, you can avoid grease-related disasters and keep your kitchen running like a well-oiled machine. 

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