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Why Every Restaurant Needs a Grease Trap
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Wastewater from restaurants differs from residential wastewater. Every day, restaurants produce higher volumes of wastewater contaminated with fats, oil, and grease (FOG). High levels of FOG cause a higher biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), resulting in problems with in site sewage disposal and public sewage systems. As a restaurant owner, you need to observe strict local government regulations. The City of Toronto mandates establishments that prepare, cook, heat, and process food on-site must install and maintain grease traps on pipes that are connected to the sanitary sewer system.

Grease Traps

Restaurants are accountable for proper FOG disposal. A grease trap, also known as a grease interceptor, is a plumbing device used to catch FOG before it enters the waste disposal system. When FOG enters the sewer treatment facility, it forms a floating layer of debris, which later cools and solidifies and causes blockage in pipes.

Why Every Restaurant Needs a Grease Trap

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How It Works

Grease traps capture FOG by slowing the flow of greasy water. Once cooled, the water flows down the pipe into the sewer, leaving the grease trapped by the baffles covering the inlet and outlet of the device. The tank requires pumping at least once a year to avoid potential plumbing issues (e.g. grease buildup, clogging, and backup). This also prevents unpleasant smells in the kitchen.

Keeping Them Clean

Grease traps are an important component of your plumbing system. Although they effectively trap grease in the tank, they eventually require cleaning. The benefits of regular pumping and cleaning of the tank include:

 

*Maximizing Efficiency – When the grease trap becomes clogged, it loses its ability to trap grease and oil from wastewater. Your kitchen sink and dishwasher require adequate drainage to work properly.

 

*Preventing Pollution – Poorly maintained grease traps can cause pollution. Without regular pumping and cleaning, water can spill and grease can run off and contaminate the restaurant’s surrounding areas. This can create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.

 

*Preventive maintenance – Cleaning the grease trap is the best prevention for clogged drains, backups, costly downtime, and negative publicity for your restaurant.

 

*Health and Safety – A clogged grease trap can lead to messy backup, which attracts insects and rodents that feed on food waste, grease, and oil. Cleaning the grease trap regularly keeps pests at bay.

 

Although grease traps are effective FOG catchers, it is still possible that sludge accumulation can occur in your septic tank. Call Plumbing Authority Inc. for emergency plumbing services in Vaughan: (647) 992-7473. Our team of professional plumbers are here to handle your plumbing needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week.