Commercial plumbing in Phoenix ranges from restroom and water heater repairs to grease interceptor work and the yearly backflow tests the City requires. Restaurants and similar businesses also answer to the City's interceptor maintenance rules, which set cleaning intervals and record-keeping. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Phoenix who handles commercial and multifamily work.
Grease, lint and sand interceptors
The City of Phoenix requires grease, oil or sand interceptors at businesses such as restaurants, laundries, service stations, auto repair shops and carwashes. Private homes are exempt. Phoenix City Code sets minimum cleaning intervals and allows variances only from the Director:
| Device | Code minimum |
|---|---|
| Hydromechanical interceptor (grease trap) | At least every 30 days, never more than 90 days without maintenance |
| Gravity interceptor at a food service establishment | At least every three months |
| Other gravity interceptors | At least every 12 months |
The City's maintenance brochure adds that pumping is normally due once solids and grease reach 25% of the device's capacity, and some kitchens will need it sooner. Pump records must stay on site for at least three years. The brochure is blunt that the business, not the pumping company, is responsible for repairs and upkeep, and it prohibits additives such as enzymes, bacteria or detergents meant to keep grease liquid. Replacing an interceptor takes a permit from Planning and Development.
Backflow on commercial services
Commercial buildings commonly have one or more backflow assemblies. Under the City's backflow prevention program, each is tested at installation, repair or relocation and at least yearly by a certified tester on the City's list, with the original report filed on a City form. Lining up all of a property's assemblies on one schedule keeps work orders from slipping.
Other frequent calls
- Main line stoppages that back up several suites or units.
- Flushometer valves, urinals and high-use restroom fixtures.
- Commercial and recirculating water heaters fighting hard water scale.
- Leaks above drop ceilings or inside walls in multi-story buildings.
- Hot water from exposed roof and outdoor lines during the summer.
When the problem is the City's
A broken water main, hydrant or sewer emergency in the street goes to the City at 602-261-8000. Lines on the property up to the City main are the owner's to repair. For a gas odor, leave the building and call 911 and Southwest Gas at 877-860-6020 from a safe spot.
What affects commercial pricing
Cost depends on the building type, after-hours scheduling, pipe and equipment size, ceiling and chase access, permits, and whether work must be phased around tenants or trading hours.
Commercial Plumbing questions from Phoenix homeowners
How often does a Phoenix restaurant need its grease trap cleaned?
How long do I keep interceptor pumping records?
Can I use enzymes to keep grease moving?
Who do I call about a water main break outside my business?
Related plumbing services in Phoenix
Helpful guides
Commercial Plumbing in nearby cities and towns
Maricopa County
Pinal County
Sources
- City of Phoenix Water Services: Commercial inspection program FAQs (interceptors)
- City of Phoenix Water Services: Interceptor maintenance brochure
- Phoenix City Code Sec. 28-15 (interceptor maintenance and records)
- City of Phoenix Planning and Development: Backflow prevention program
- City of Phoenix: Emergency contacts (water and sewer emergencies 602-261-8000)
- Southwest Gas: Contact us (gas leak and emergency line)
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