According to the EPA, there are between 23,000 and 75,000 sanitary sewer overflows each year (not including back-ups into buildings), with grease being a major contributor. This is because a well-planned grease maintenance program is essential for keeping things running smoothly. It’s also important to follow your state’s Fats, Oils, and Grease regulations. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to manage grease in restaurants and comply with FOG regulations with some planning. Continue reading to find out more.

Grease Trap 101

Let’s begin with the basics. What is a grease trap exactly? Grease traps are devices through which your kitchen wastewater flows on its way to the sewer. These devices separate grease from other fat waste before the water can reach the sewer. Grease traps are also known as grease interceptors. They do the same job, but they are different.

The size of your business and the amount of grease and fat waste that you produce will determine whether you require a grease trap or a grease interceptor. While there are many types of grease traps/interceptors available, the standard trap only has two chambers. The first chamber captures grease as your kitchen waste flows through it. It will solidify and float to the top, allowing clean water to flow to the second chamber.

Why Do Businesses Need a Grease Trap?

• Any take-out or restaurant
• Cafes and bakeries that make their goods on-site
• Shopping centers with food outlets
• Mobile food outlets
• Schools and colleges
• Catering companies
• Food production facilities
• Convenience shops
• Kitchens for nursing homes and hospitals

The list shows that almost any business that uses fats, oils and greases in large quantities should have a grease trap. Grease interceptors are required for high volume grease producers like hospitals and hotels. A grease trap is needed for low volume foodservice establishments, such as mobile take-out or fast food outlets.

How Many Times Do You Need To Empty Your Grease Traps?

Grease traps can quickly fill up so it is important to have a routine cleaning and maintenance. The grease trap’s effectiveness at keeping grease out of your pipes decreases as it fills up. It is recommended that grease traps be cleaned every 1-3 months.

It is important to remember that grease can harden over time and make it more difficult to remove. This will increase the cost of the service and the time needed. As the grease builds up, the effectiveness of your trap will decrease. Regular cleaning will ensure that your grease trap is working efficiently and prevent costly blockages.

This post was written by Tanner Brown. Tanner is the Owner and operator of Greenbar Excavation. Greenbar Excavation is a fully licensed, insured, and accredited Excavation company based in Prineville Oregon. Greenbar Excavation is one of the top Site Grading companies in Central Oregon. Don’t look further, go with the company with your best interest in mind!