A Brief Guide on Grease Traps

by Kevin Smith Author

Waste disposal systems may not be the first thing on your mind when starting a business, but they're essential in keeping things running smoothly and efficiently. And, they're especially important in the food service industry, which requires high standards for hygiene and cleanliness.

A grease trap is one device used to ensure hassle-free waste disposal. Here's a brief guide on it:

What It Is

It's a plumbing tool that intercepts various oils and solid objects before they enter wastewater disposal systems. Businesses in the food industry, such as restaurants, cafes, bars, and bakeries, have one. Schools and hotels use it, as well.

Grease traps come in various shapes and sizes, meaning it's not difficult to find one that'll fit your needs. It also protects business owners from foul odors, blocked drainpipes, and restricted wastewater flow. Health inspectors typically require large establishments to have the device installed within their premises.

How It Works

The device cools the hot wastewater that passes through it. Once this happens, it settles into different layers, ready to be filtered out and led to the appropriate disposal system.

Fats, oils, and grease, for example, float to the surface, where they're caught in a filter. Then, it's led into a container that needs to be emptied regularly to keep it functioning well. But, this only applies to smaller types. If you're using an industrial device, there may be other systems in place to create a more efficient and streamlined process.

Types

There are 3 main types of grease traps. To figure out which one can cater to your needs best, here's a brief guide:

Manual

This is one of the most popular types and is commonly used by smaller establishments. It comes in various sizes, is easy to install, and inexpensive. This device is created with plastic and stainless steel. They have to be cleaned manually and regularly.

Automatic

This kind utilizes the same principles as the manual type, but the fat, oil, and grease are skimmed out automatically, depending on the schedule you set. The waste will be put into a bin, where it can be easily removed and recycled.

Gravity

This kind is usually meant for bigger establishments, such as restaurants and hospitals. It's comprised of a large in-ground tank made from concrete, fiberglass, or steel. It can accommodate 500-2000 gallons of wastewater and has greater grease and solid storage capacity.

Maintenance

Try not to clean it on your own. Something may go wrong without you noticing, which will just cause you more trouble. For example, you may damage the mechanism or utilize a product that corrodes the machine.

Instead, hire an expert. There are various companies that provide grease trap cleaning services in Decatur, IL, out there. They have the appropriate skills, training, and tools to get the job done without any problems.