A grease trap is a plumbing device used to intercept greases and any solids before they are disposed of down a wastewater disposal system. Wastewater contains small amounts of oils, which enter into septic tanks, forming a floating scum layer. This layer is digested and broken down by microorganisms. However, when large amounts of oil are produced, maybe from food production in restaurants, they overwhelm the septic tanks. This causes untreated sewage to be released into the environment, making the environment an uncomfortable place to stay. Here is what you need to know about grease traps:
How Grease Traps Work
The main purpose of a grease trap is to prevent grease and food solids from entering the sewer system where it can lead to clogging. A grease trap traps grease and other oils and separates them from water. This is done by the grease trap capturing all the waste deposited in the drain. From the drain, it captures water that contains grease, other solid food wastes and oil. This is then deposited into the grease trap tank. This tank holds the wastewater and food that passes through the grease trap. Solid food wastes then drop to the bottom as they are the heaviest. The greasy substances then harden and float to the top of the tank, hence displacing the liquid that is at the middle. The liquid is allowed to flow into the sewer system through a tube that is attached to the tank. Moreover, some grease traps have two tanks. The second tank is designed to trap additional grease that may have accidentally escaped through the first tank.
The Importance of Installing Grease Traps
People involved in food businesses such as restaurants should be aware of the fact that they have to prevent grease and other food wastes from entering the sewer system after exiting their sinks and drainage. They can prevent this by having grease traps installed. Once you have grease traps installed, you can rest assured that even your plumbing system will always work properly. This is because without grease traps, grease, solid food wastes and oily substances form a solid mass. High viscous fats also solidify when cooled. Once they combine with other disposed solids, they block drain pipes. This can later lead to your pipes bursting. The damages that are caused by grease blockage can lead to very costly repairs, hence costing your business a lot.
Therefore, installing a grease trap is the best decision one can make if they are running an establishment where large amounts of grease are used.
