Grease traps, also known as interceptors or recovery systems, are devices that collect animal fats and vegetable oils (a.k.a. grease) from kitchen wastewater before it flows into the sewer lines. Oil is less dense than water, so as wastewater flows through the trap, grease rises to the top and is intercepted by a series of baffles. The remaining water is then pushed through the sewer lines.
Why are grease traps important?
As fats, oils, and greases (FOG) cool, they congeal and coat the inside of your pipes. By decreasing the amount of FOG entering your plumbing system, grease traps lessen the risk of clogs and foul odors. In addition, FOG can overwhelm municipal sewer systems, creating public health risks from sanitary sewer overflows (SSO). Excess FOG can also have an environmental impact as it flows into large bodies of water.
Choosing the correct grease trap and properly installing it requires an understanding of:
- the best location (inside or outside your facility)
- the right materials for your application (plastic, fiberglass, or concrete)
- the most effective type of trap for your situation (hydromechanical, gravity, or automatic grease removal unit)
- the amount of FOG likely to pass through your system
- the flow rate, measured in gallons per minute, of all sinks draining into the trap
- local plumbing codes
Did You Know: Grease traps are not “set it and forget it” plumbing fixtures. They require ongoing maintenance and regular cleaning.
Maplewood Plumbing and Sewer has been installing grease traps in St. Louis restaurants for more than 30 years. Contact us today at 314-645-6350 or here for more information or to request a bid.
We offer a one-year warranty on all parts and labor excluding washers.
We are also experts in hot water heater installation, tankless water heater installation, garbage disposal repair and replacement, bathroom plumbing and residential plumbing. Give us a call at 314-645-6350 or fill out the contact form here for more information or to request a bid.