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Grease traps and inspections
An inoperable or clogged grease trap can cause serious problems not only for the commercial establishment, but also for neighbors and even the entire local community. Therefore, it is important for our commercial customers to understand grease traps, and the purpose of grease trap inspections, so that the maintenance of them is not neglected.
What is a grease trap?
Grease traps are plumbing devices designed to intercept fats, oils and grease — collectively known as FOG — before they enter a wastewater disposal system. FOG originates from the cleaning process of pots, pans, plates and silverware that contain food products such as deep-fried foods, meats, sauces, gravy, dressings, baked goods, cheese and butter.
Pouring chemicals like bleach or other harsh cleaning agents into a grease trap can significantly affect its system negatively, as they can kill the natural bacteria that break down grease, potentially leading to clogs, damage to the trap itself, and environmental concerns. Therefore, it is strongly advised to avoid using chemicals in a grease trap and to only use professional cleaning methods.
The terms “grease traps” and “grease interceptors” are often used interchangeably, but they are distinctly different technologies. While they both remove grease from water and operate by similar principles, here are some of their differences:
- Grease traps have a small capacity and are installed indoors and near the location where the grease is generated. They can be monitored and cleaned by restaurant employees and require no special equipment to clean.
- Grease interceptors are large, underground units (some having a capacity of several thousand gallons) that typically serve high-flow applications, such as larger restaurants, factories and grocery stores. To install a grease interceptor, a large trench must first be excavated and a cement footing built for support. The interceptor is placed into the trench where gravel is then poured to fill the space between the interceptor and the earth. An extension collar connects the buried interceptor with a manhole cover at ground level, approximately 30 inches above. Grease interceptors must be cleaned by licensed grease haulers who use specialized pumps and hoses.
How often should a grease trap be cleaned?
Grease traps should be cleaned and inspected at least once every 180 days. A monthly inspection will determine how often a grease trap needs to be cleaned. You can tell it’s time to clean your grease trap if:
- Drainage is slow
- There are foul smells
- Grease is 25% of the total liquid depth
- Grease is leaking, or
- It’s been more than three months since the last cleaning
What is a manifest?
- When to get a manifest: In Texas, a manifest is required for every pump-out of a grease trap or interceptor.
- What to include in the manifest: The manifest must include:
- The transporter’s name, address, phone number, and commission registration number
- The generator’s name, signature, address, and phone number, and the date collected
- The type and amount of waste collected or transported
- The names and signatures of the people responsible for collecting, transporting, and depositing the waste
- The date and place where the waste was deposited
- Who to provide the manifest to: The transporter must provide the generator with the first copy of the trip ticket. After delivery, the transporter must provide the generator with the completed fourth copy.