Where and How to Use a Grease Trap

 

Every once in a while, there is a problem with a local sewer system that can be traced back to a restaurant that failed to make use of commercial waste oil disposal methods. What they may not realise is that there are steep fines for the culprits once water companies have determined which institutions are responsible and the quantities of fats, oils, grease (FOG) that they have permitted to enter the drainage system. This can also have a negative impact on a restaurant’s reputation. A grease trap may be the solution for your dining establishment. In this article, we will look at what it is and how it works, as well as general tips on managing sewage.

How a Grease Trap Works

To understand the problem, it is necessary to note that vegetable oil and animal fats (FOG elements) do not mix with water. Because the former is less dense than water, it tends to float on top of it. Restaurants dispose of larger quantities of FOG.

A commercial grease trap can be either manual or automatic. It works by trapping the FOG elements before they get to the drains. A grease trap decreases the water flow, allowing items to separate. The FOGs rise harmlessly to the top. Solid waste falls to the bottom layer and wastewater remains in the middle. Manual grease traps need to be cleaned by a qualified commercial waste company. Automatic traps dispose of FOG automatically and work on a preset schedule.

Why Get a Grease Trap?

There is no shortage of information on FOG disposal. Following the relevant legislation, such as Building Regulations, Document H, section 2.21, will prevent fines being imposed on the institution. The latter legislation states that if your premises connect to the main drainage system and you provide hot meals, you are required to install some means of separating FOG elements before they get into the drainage. While there are alternatives to a grease trap, this is a cost-effective and efficient way to deal with your FOG remnants. What is vital is that you comply with the regulations and do not permit FOG elements to enter the main drainage system. Here are a few more reasons for getting a grease trap.

Managing Sewage

As can be seen by looking at the need for grease traps, many restaurants and other organizations fail to comply with the requirements for safe sewage disposal. More and more companies are hiring a waste management service to cope with their sewage disposal needs, for example, Anderson's Waste Management deals with commercial waste collection Bristol and commercial waste disposal.

Commercial waste costs a business in the UK around £300 or more per annum. These expenses are made up of bin hire costs, landfill costs, and admin fees. The admin fee component is broken down into gate fees, charges for congestion, and a waste transfer licence. However, this is small compared to the fines charged for non-compliance. Adhere to the legislation and keep your restaurant on the right side of the law regarding waste disposal.