It’s no secret that fats, oils and greases can have an adverse effect on sewer and septic systems. That’s where grease interceptors come in handy, reducing the level of grease and oils in wastewater. The first grease trap was patented in the late 1880’s, but these systems have come a long way since those days.
Hydromechanical grease interceptors collect fats, oils and grease discharged from high-volume kitchens by controlling the flow of water and allowing hot water to cool. Fats, oils and grease settle out of the water and are then caught by a baffle to keep it from flowing out of the grease interceptor. These models are typically installed beneath sinks, and must be cleaned manually to ensure peak performance. They’re sized by gallons per minute flow and poundage, and use simple principles to keep harmful grease out of a sewer system.
Gravity grease interceptors are comprised of two or more compartments. The larger amount of water slows down the water inside the interceptor, allowing grease to separate. Buoyancy plays a major role in the way gravity traps work, and they’re much larger than hydromechanical grease interceptors. They’re also more efficient, collecting up to ninety percent of fats, oils and grease as they travel through the system.
If you’re planning to build a restaurant or other high-volume kitchen, local ordinances probably require you to have some sort of grease interceptor installed for the health of the municipal sewer system. Working closely with a licensed sewer and septic professional will ensure that you not only stay within the bounds of local law, but also that you find the most effective and efficient system for your needs.
Posted on behalf of Shawn Bynum, Bynum Plumbing
