Grease Trap or Grease Interceptor: Which Grease Solution Fits Your Needs?

You are aware that fat and water do not mix when moving through the sewer lines. So, the most indispensable equipment for every commercial kitchen is the grease trap. The wastewater in restaurants is filled with oils, fats, and grease, so cleaning the trap is necessary. But you have also come across the term grease interceptor and wondered whether its function is similar to the former. Typically, both perform the same function and that is preventing the fats, oils, and grease from entering the kitchen sink. Allowing them to drain through the sink may spell disaster as the particles may stick to sewer pipes, causing damage and build-ups.

Getting an overview of the grease trap or grease interceptor will help you get a hang of the functionalities.

Grease trap and grease interceptor:

A trap is used for the removal of FOG and is designed for kitchens where the flow of water and oil is low. The equipment can be installed beneath the sink in any kitchen facility. The interceptor, on the other hand, is also used for the removal of FOG in large commercial kitchens. As the flow of oil and fat is higher in the large and commercial kitchens, you may need to hire a professional grease trap cleaning service for help.

• When wastewater flows through the kitchen sinks and the trap drains into the tank, the FOG tends to harden and eventually the solid particles settle down. The fat particles being lighter float on the water and allow the wastewater to move out easily.
• The interceptor installed below the large-scale kitchen sinks also performs the same function.

The primary difference between the two lies in the flow rate of the wastewater. While the trap is designed to handle a low volume of water, the interceptor is slated to handle a higher flow volume. For residences, the trap device is ideal but for large kitchens of restaurants and eateries, interceptors need to handle the separation of fats, oils, and greases.

Understanding the differences: Grease trap and interceptor

When dealing with oils and the fatty particles present in the wastewater and preventing them from entering the plumbing lines, you need both. But there are minor differences except that both are used to protect the plumbing system. Both reduce the risk of FOGs draining through the kitchen sink. Here are those minor differences you need to understand.

• Size: One of the differences is in the size. The traps are smaller and range up to 500 gallons. The interceptors can hold over 500 gallons. When choosing between the two, you need to evaluate the size of the facility and the rate of grease production.
• Flow rate: For facilities with low flow rates, the traps are ideal. But for the larger ones with a higher flow rate, the interceptors are equipped to handle high water pressure.
• Placement: Due to differences in sizes, you need to place them differently as far as the location of the plumbing system is concerned. You can place the traps below the kitchen sink and let the device trap FOG. The interceptors, on the other hand often stay outside the facility and are installed underground due to their large size. However, the exact location may be decided after studying the floor plan, layout, and the size of the facility.
• Maintenance requirements: Another major difference between the grease trap and interceptor is in the maintenance. The traps are smaller in size and the capacity is less. Therefore, you may need grease trap maintenance more frequently. On the other hand, the interceptors may be cleaned once every three months. But, if you need to know the precise needs, the size of the premises and the flow rate of the grease are a couple of factors to consider.
• Pressure: The grease traps are ideal for facilities where the water pressure is low whereas interceptors are ideal for places where the water pressure is higher. A grease trap cleaning service can best determine the correctness of the grease trap installation.

If you are looking forward to installing FOG-separator equipment in your commercial kitchen, make sure you ask for professional help. Experienced companies like Greaseco are to be relies on for grease traps Ireland.