I get where you’re coming from—out of sight, out of mind can be a real headache when it comes to plumbing. But I’ve also heard folks complain about the smell and mess of in-kitchen traps, especially if you’re not on top of cleaning them. I’m curious, though: has anyone actually run the numbers on maintenance costs over a few years? Is one really cheaper in the long run, or is it just a trade-off between hassle and upfront cost?
I’ve also heard folks complain about the smell and mess of in-kitchen traps, especially if you’re not on top of cleaning them.
You’re not wrong—those in-kitchen traps can get pretty gross if you don’t stay on top of ‘em. I’ve had tenants who just ignored them until the whole kitchen started smelling like a swamp. Not fun for anyone.
Here’s how I break it down: upfront, in-kitchen traps are cheaper and easier to install. But you’re trading that for more frequent cleaning (sometimes every week or two, depending on use). If you’re paying someone to do it, those costs add up fast. Plus, if someone skips a cleaning, you risk backups or even fines if you’re in a regulated area.
Underground traps cost more to put in, but they usually only need pumping every few months. The service is pricier each time, but less frequent. Over five years, I’ve found the costs end up pretty close—maybe a bit more for underground, but way less hassle and complaints.
If you’ve got reliable folks who’ll keep up with cleaning, in-kitchen might save a bit. Otherwise, I’d pay extra for underground and sleep better at night.
I keep going back and forth on this. The idea of having to clean out a trap every week sounds like a chore I’d definitely forget about, but the upfront cost of underground is a bit intimidating. Is the smell from in-kitchen traps really that bad, or is it just if you totally neglect them? I’m not super squeamish, but I also don’t want my kitchen to smell like a science experiment gone wrong.
I’ve dealt with both setups in a few properties, and honestly, the in-kitchen traps can be a headache if you’re not on top of them. The smell isn’t immediate, but if you miss a week or two, it creeps up fast—especially in warmer months. It’s not just neglect; even with regular cleaning, there’s always a bit of funk that lingers. Some folks get used to it, but I wouldn’t call it pleasant.
The underground ones are pricey up front, no doubt about it. But long-term, they’re much less hassle. You don’t have to worry about tenants forgetting to clean them out or dealing with complaints about odors. Maintenance is less frequent and usually handled by professionals.
If you’re the type who might forget or just doesn’t want to deal with the mess, I’d seriously consider biting the bullet and going underground. It’s one of those things where paying more now saves you headaches (and nose-pinching) later.
I hear you on the in-kitchen traps—those things are a pain if you’re not super diligent. I’ve had one go sour on me during a heatwave, and it was brutal. One thing I’d add: with underground traps, make sure you’ve got clear access for maintenance. Sometimes folks forget about that part and it turns into a whole ordeal when it’s time to pump them out. If you’re safety-minded (like me), the fewer chances for spills and slips in the kitchen, the better. The upfront cost stings, but I’d rather deal with that than mystery odors sneaking up on me every month.
