Grease Traps 101: A Quick Guide

A number of different kinds of substances are poured down the drains of typical commercial kitchens. Of course, not all of these are safe for the shared drainage system of the community, which is where they usually end up. Fortunately, grease traps can catch unsafe substances like oils, fats and grease and keep them out of the pipes.

Considering the essential function of grease traps, it’s very important to make sure they’re properly maintained. Grease traps are often hidden from plain sight, usually beneath kitchen sinks or outside underground. Their location can sometimes be the reason why they’re neglected. 

In this post, A-1 Comfort Care — a reputable provider of plumbing and residential HVAC services — further discusses the importance of grease traps in commercial kitchens. We also share a few tips on how to maintain them properly.

Why Do Commercial Kitchens Need Grease Traps?

Grease traps ensure that fats, oils and grease — which are also referred to as FOG — can’t reach the main sewage line. Without grease traps to prevent FOG from entering the sewer system, large quantities of these substances would accumulate and cause major plumbing woes for both residents and businesses.

Along with potentially damaging pipes and sewage systems, FOG can also be harmful to the environment if it finds its way into the waterways. If it’s released into rivers and streams, FOG can contaminate the water, which is dangerous for the animals living in these environments. Furthermore, if FOG were to reach water catchment areas, this would make it impossible for the water to be used.

What Are the Best Ways to Maintain Grease Traps?

Much like air conditioning repair services, proper maintenance of grease traps is crucial and must be done in all commercial kitchens. Here are some of the best ways to ensure grease traps function properly:

• Scrape any remaining food off of plates before washing them in the sink. This way, the amount of waste that the grease trap has to collect will be reduced.
• Recycle used cooking oil so that it can be turned into sustainable fuel. Never pour it down the drain, as this can damage your pipes.
• Monitor how quickly your grease trap fills up, and empty it when it’s one-fourth of the way full. In this way, you can prevent FOG buildup.

A-1 Comfort Care has been providing quality HVAC and plumbing services for over 20 years. We have some of the most reliable plumbing and HVAC installation contractors in the area, from whom you can expect superior workmanship and outstanding customer service. Call us at (732) 578-0379 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Freehold and Wall, NJ.