WHY DO I NEED A GREASE TRAP?
Grease traps are required for every foodservice facility in order to prevent clogs, slow running drains, and blockages in sewer systems. As FOG (Fat, Oil, Grease) will coagulate when cooled, it will build up in the sewer lines. Depending upon where the clog occurs, it can cause a backup into your facility or, if farther down the line, it can cause overflows onto parking lots and streets which violates the Clean Water Act of 1972 (33 USC 1251). As such, Jefferson County implemented a Grease Control Program in October 2006. Non-compliance with this program may result in fines. More details of the Jefferson County grease control program can be found at the link below.
http://www.jeffcoes.org/Default.asp?ID=34
HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO CLEAN MY TRAP?
All interceptors (indoor grease traps of less than 50 gallons) must be cleaned every 14 days. Typically, a small deli, snack bar or convenience store can use an interceptor. Outdoor grease traps, usually 1000 gallons, must be cleaned every 3 months. A family restaurant, bakery or cafeteria will require a grease trap. Exceptions to this schedule can be made, but must be in writing from the Jefferson County Grease Control Program. Failure to comply can result in a fine in Jefferson County.
HOW DOES A GREASE INTERCEPTOR WORK?
As FOG enters the traps, it floats, and the clear water exits to the sewer system from an outlet that pulls water from near the bottom of the tank.
HOW DOES A GREASE TRAP WORK?
Grease traps work similarly to a septic tank. Jefferson County requires all grease traps installed after 2006 to have a sample vault on the outlet.
WHAT ABOUT COOKING OIL?
A grease trap is for FOG only! Cooking oil from fryers is typically collected in outdoor, above ground bins that can vary from 55 gallons to hundreds of gallons. They must be vacuumed out when full. Cooking oil is typically recycled and used in industries outside of food service.
WHEN SHOULD I HAVE MY TRAP CLEANED?
Since grease traps have a very strong obnoxious odor when opened, we typically recommend having them cleaned in the early morning, preferably before the facility opens to the public.
HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN IT IS TIME TO CLEAN MY TRAP?
We keep permanent records and would be happy to set you up on a recurring basis so you don’t have to keep up with anything. We will call you the day before and let you know that we are coming.