What is a Grease Trap and why Every Commercial Kitchen Should Have it?

Cooking oil is one of such things you should never put down the drain, but if you operate a commercial kitchen, this is bound to happen! 

Cleaning the big cauldron, the dishes, and other things result in oil flowing through the sink and entering the main sewer line causing blockages, and other problems.

However, there is one amazing solution to this problem, and we plumbers call it the “grea1000se trap”. It is exactly what it sounds, and the primary purpose of this device is to filter the grease. 

Here’s what a grease trap is and why every commercial kitchen should have one.

What is a Grease Trap?

Grease traps have been in existence for more than 100 years, and almost 90% of commercial kitchens use them. Some people even call it grease converter, catcher, or FOG traps. 

The grease trap is a metal box device with an inlet and outlet. The inlet allows the wastewater from the sink and filters it. The grease and oil-free water then escape through the outlet, and you get all the grease collected into the trap.

This device is ideal for a wide range of environments, including:

• Bakeries
• Restaurants
• Cafes
• Takeaways 
• Hotels
• Bars, pubs, and inns 
• Colleges and schools 

Type of Grease Traps 

There are different types of grease traps available, and a reliable commercial plumber in Sydney can install them for you. Choose the type of grease catcher that fits your budget and fulfils the requirements.

Gravity Grease Traps 

Gravity grease catchers don’t need power to work, as they work using gravitational force. These massive tanks installed under the ground are good for big commercial kitchens like hotels, colleges, and more.

Automatic Grease Traps 

The automatic grease traps require power to work. These units have specialized filters that check the grease levels automatically and start cleaning the water. 

You get complete control over the filtering levels, and there is a dedicated controller. Available in a range of sizes, these automatic devices are ideal for bakeries, hotels, pubs, restaurants, and small eateries. 

Passive Grease Traps 

The traditional passive grease interceptors are the cheapest of all and are used widely across commercial kitchens. Just like the gravity grease traps, these devices also don’t need any power or electricity. 

There is a removable filter that filters the grease, and you can clean it easily whenever required.

Top Benefits of Using a Grease Trap 

There are plenty of reasons why every commercial kitchen should have one or two grease catchers. This is an essential device that keeps the pipes clean and prevents several sewer-related issues.

Here are some advantages you need to know:

It Prevents Clogging 

Unclogging a commercial kitchen sink is challenging and requires a certified commercial plumber. But a grease catcher reduces the risks of clogging, as the major cause behind blocked pipes is grease.

The catcher also traps other elements such as big chunks of food and other contaminants that can harm the pipelines.

Lesser Chances of Pipe Damages 

Pipe damages can turn out to be an expensive deal for any commercial kitchen. Not just the damaged pipe hinders the kitchen operations, but repairing it may take many days. 

In severe cases, pipe relining is the only solution. But using a grease trap device helps reduce these risks. 

As there is no clogging inside the pipes, there are fewer or no chances of any severe damages. However, one should invest in regular maintenance and cleaning. Look for a local plumber in your area, and hire them for the regular maintenance job.

It Keeps the Sewers Clean 

Even if the oil and grease flow through the kitchen pipes, it can cause harm to the main sewer system, which will result in sewage backup, and your kitchen may smell bad.

Using a grease catcher is the best solution to prevent grease from entering the sewer lines. 

Maintenance Tips to Follow When Using a Grease Trap in the Kitchen 

So, you have decided to get a grease trap installed? Great, here are some important maintenance tips you should know to prolong the lifespan of the device.

Scrape Off the Leftover Food from the Plate 

After getting the grease catcher installed, you should be extra cautious when cleaning the dishes and cauldron. Before putting the dishes into the cleaning sink, remove the chunks of food. 

Recycle the Cooking Oil 

Cooking oil can be recycled and turned into biofuel, which is the new fuel for our vehicles. However, pouring it down the drain is not a good practice, as it can block the pipes.

Yes, the grease catcher will filter the oil, but you may need to clean it frequently, so it is better to use it for other purposes.

Clean the Trap Filter Regularly 

As per expert plumbers, you should clean the filter when it is one-fourth of the way full. The cleaning period of the trap depends on how busy the kitchen is. 

Monitor the trap’s filter, and empty it properly to prolong its life while keeping the pipes clean.

How Do I Get a Grease Trap Installed?

Getting a grease trap installed in your Sydney’s kitchen is easy. All you need to do is contact the trap manufacturer and get the right type of trap designed for your kitchen.

Furthermore, contact a reliable plumber, and get the grease catcher installed inside the kitchen. 

Final Thoughts 

There are numerous benefits of using a grease trap, so you should get one for your commercial kitchen. At Sydney Plumbers, we have a team of dedicated technicians that can install any type of grease catcher at reasonable rates.

Moreover, we offer regular maintenance and cleanings services for commercial kitchens. Click on the contact us button to hire our experts today or to know more about grease trap installation.