Both grease traps and grease interceptors keep fats, oil, and grease (FOG) from entering the sewage system, but how are they different? Here’s a refresher on what grease traps and grease interceptors are, how they differ, and why they’re essential.
What is a grease trap?
Grease traps are compact devices typically tucked away beneath sinks and dishwashers in commercial kitchens. These contraptions are designed to capture fats, oils, and grease before they wreak havoc in your plumbing. Here’s how grease traps work:
Inlet: The wastewater from sinks and dishwashers flows directly into the grease trap.
Separation: Within the trap, the wastewater undergoes a crucial transformation as it cools down, causing FOG to separate and float to the surface.
Collection: The separated grease accumulates at the top of the trap, while cleaner water exits through an outlet.
Maintenance: Grease traps require regular TLC in the form of grease removal to maintain efficiency and prevent pesky clogs.
What is a grease interceptor?
Grease interceptors are built to manage heavier-duty FOG output. They’re common for larger commercial kitchens and are typically found outside the building. Here’s how grease interceptors work:
Inlet: Wastewater from various kitchen sources enters the grease interceptor.
Settling: Inside the grease interceptor, the water slows down, allowing solids to settle at the bottom.
Separation: FOG, being lighter, rises to the top of the interceptor, creating a distinct layer.
Retention: The separated FOG and solids are retained within the interceptor, while the comparatively cleaner water is discharged into the sewer system.
Maintenance: Grease interceptors are equipped with larger storage capacities, which means they require less frequent maintenance than their smaller counterparts.
The primary advantage of grease interceptors is their capacity to effectively manage large amounts of fats, oils, and grease (FOG). Local regulations for larger-scale food establishments such as hotels, industrial kitchens, and cafeterias often mandate them.
Key Differences
The most notable difference between grease traps and grease interceptors is size and capacity. Grease traps are compact and well-suited for smaller kitchens whereas grease interceptors are bulkier and built to handle much larger FOG volumes.
A second difference is the location of these two units. Grease traps reside inside kitchens whereas grease interceptors are typically located outside/next to the building.
Frequency of maintenance is another key difference. Grease trap cleaning service should happen on a regular basis to align with grease trap requirements. Grease interceptors require less-frequent attention, but should still be evaluated every so often.
Finally, there are different mandates related to grease traps vs. grease interceptors. Check with your local municipality to determine the specific requirements in your area. Avoid hefty fines and keep people safe.
Benefits of Using Grease Traps and Grease Interceptors
While there are key differences, grease traps and grease interceptors both accomplish the same thing, they filter FOG from the wastewater which protects the sewer system and the natural environment. The following are the benefits of having well-maintained grease traps and grease interceptors in your commercial kitchen:
While there are key differences, grease traps and grease interceptors both accomplish the same thing, they filter FOG from the wastewater which protects the sewer system and the natural environment. The following are the benefits of having well maintained grease traps and grease interceptors in your commercial kitchen:
Grease traps and grease interceptors are durable and can last for many years with proper maintenance. Grease traps are made from stainless steel and grease interceptors are made from cement, PVC, or fiberglass materials for excellent durability in outdoor conditions.
Grease traps and grease interceptors help extend the life of septic tanks by filtering the FOG.
Keeping grease traps and grease interceptors clean and maintained allows them to efficiently filter FOG which protects the natural environment. Taking steps to protect the environment can improve the public image of your business.
Grease traps and grease interceptors reduce the risk of backflows that can flood your kitchen and cost your business time and money.
Your business can help protect your local environment, including rivers and streams, by effectively filtering FOG from your wastewater with functional grease traps and grease interceptors.
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