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What Is A Grease Trap And How Does A Grease Trap Work

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    An Essential Guide

    Grease traps are one of those overlooked but critically important components of modern drainage systems, especially for commercial kitchens and restaurants. These devices are designed to intercept grease and other fatty substances, preventing them from entering public sewer systems or wastewater treatment facilities. This ensures efficient drainage and mitigates the risk of blockages and contamination. Pro Drainage Group, a leading drainage solutions provider in the UK, sheds light on what a grease trap is and how it functions.

    What is a Grease Trap?

    A grease trap, sometimes referred to as a grease interceptor, is a plumbing device specifically designed to trap most greases and solids before they enter a wastewater disposal system. Traditional grease traps may range in size from smaller under-the-sink models to larger multi-gallon units for extensive commercial use.

    How Does a Grease Trap Work?

    The Mechanism

    Grease traps operate on the basic principles of gravity and separation. The grease trap is connected to the drainage system from the sink or dishwasher. As wastewater flows into the trap, it is temporarily held in a containment area. Since grease and oil are lighter than water, they float to the top, while solids settle at the bottom.

    1. Inlet: Wastewater containing grease enters the trap.
    2. Separation: The water cools down, and grease and oil float to the top, separating from the water.
    3. Collection: The solids settle at the bottom, and the grease accumulates at the top.
    4. Outlet: The relatively clean water is then allowed to flow through an outlet pipe into the sewage system.

    Types of Grease Traps

    1. Passive Grease Traps: These are smaller units often found in smaller food establishments. They are generally located indoors, under sinks.
    2. Hydromechanical Grease Interceptors (HGI): These are larger than passive traps and use mechanical means to assist in grease separation.
    3. Gravity Grease Interceptors (GGI): These are often located outdoors and use gravity alone to separate grease.

    Maintenance: A Crucial Step

    Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the effective operation of grease traps. The accumulated grease and solids need to be removed and disposed of properly. It is generally recommended to clean smaller traps every week and larger traps monthly. Pro Drainage Group offers expert grease trap maintenance services to ensure your systems are running efficiently and compliantly.

    Legal Regulations in the UK

    In the UK, there are strict regulations governing the disposal of FOG. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines or even imprisonment. Grease traps must meet British Standard BS EN 1825-1:2004 for grease separators. Failing to comply can have severe repercussions for your business.

    Conclusion

    Grease traps play a vital role in preventing drain blockages and sewer issues, contributing to a more efficient and eco-friendly waste management system. Understanding how they work helps businesses make informed decisions on proper installation, maintenance, and compliance with legal standards.

    For professional grease trap solutions across the UK, trust Pro Drainage Group. With years of experience and a commitment to quality service, we are your go-to experts in all things drainage.