GREASE TRAP SERVICE FAQ’S
What is a grease trap and why do I need one at my facility?
A grease trap (or grease interceptor) is a containment area, generally placed underground, that is required in commercial kitchens to collect the fats, oils and greases (FOG) that inadvertently run through water drains. Because trap water enters a city water treatment system, grease traps are closely monitored and regulated by city and state environmental agencies. Grease traps are NOT intended for grease disposal - do not empty your fryer grease into a grease trap as this could cause major problems and possible fines for your business. EcoOil Recycling’s service technicians stay informed of the various municipal codes to ensure all service visits comply with current local, state and federal ordinances.
How often should I have my grease trap cleaned or serviced?
A service schedule is dependent on the volume of grease produced and the size of your trap. EcoOil Recycling can work with your business to create a service schedule compliant with applicable city and town regulations.
Why can’t I pour grease down the drain?
Grease traps are intended to capture residual grease from cleaning and thus large volumes of grease should never be poured down a drain. Grease will solidify while traveling through the pipe and can cause clogging, backups and overflow. If the these issues affect your city’s sewage system it may result in fines for the business owner.
Do you repair grease traps?
As part of our consulting and service process, we will analyze and monitor the condition of your trap and can make recommendations, should repairs be needed. However, repair service is not currently offered by EcoOil Recycling.
Can trap grease be recycled and how is that done?
Yes, there are a growing number of regional processing plants that recycle food waste, including grease trap waste into energy through anaerobic digestion. EcoOil Recycling partners with several of these companies, including Agri-Cycle. Anaerobic digestion is better for the environment than traditional composting of food waste, since it prevents 100% of harmful greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere.
How does a grease trap work?
A grease trap is part of the drain system in your facility. It separates grease and oils from the wastewater produced from sinks, floor drains and dishwashers. The fixture slows down the flow of the greasy water heading into the drains and allows it to cool. The grease, fat and oil separate from the water and float to the top of the grease trap, and the remaining displaced grey water is allowed to flow through a drain near the bottom of the grease trap then down the drainpipe into the sewer. The grease remaining behind and floating on top of the grease trap, solidifies and requires a certified company to pump out the grease.
How can I maintain my grease trap?
Preventive maintenance will help you avoid costly backups and overflows, it is recommended and often required by city ordinances to have your grease trap serviced regularly by a certified service provider, such as EcoOil Recycling.
The trap should be examined periodically for wear or damage by a certified service provider.
If smells are emanating from the grease trap itself the gasket sealing the grease trap lid most likely needs replacement.
Use drain covers in sinks to capture debris and avoid washing food waste into your trap.
NEVER pour grease down the drain.
Can you help if my grease trap overflows?
If a clog is the source of the overflow, a plumber will need to address the issue for the grease trap to function properly. Yet, we are more than happy to remove the contents of the trap and inspect the grease trap prior to calling a plumber to determine if there actually is a clog. With regularly scheduled maintenance, clogs and disruptions will most likely be avoided.