By its very name, we already know the function of a grease trap. However, like a septic tank, a grease trap also separates water from the grease when it solidifies as it cools. The water then can pass through a regular drain as normal but the solid grease remains. Trapping the grease helps to prevent sewer blockages that could result in sewage overflows, damage and extensive repairs. It should go without saying that, given the nature of accumulating grease, this system needs to be maintained (cleaned or pumped) in order to continue working effectively. For the best results, it is recommended that your grease trap be thoroughly cleaned about every 90 days, in order to minimize odors and prevent overflow.
While this is certainly something that can be done by the business owner, it can be messy and time consuming. Furthermore, government and environmental regulations for the disposal of wastewater are stringent. EPA requires that grease traps remain clutter-free and functional; failure to comply with EPA standards in this regard can be a criminal offense. Given these requirements, grease trap cleaning should be a regular part of a facility’s maintenance routine and is probably best done by pumping professionals.
In staying abreast of current regulations, your local grease pumping professional can ensure your compliance, avoiding potentially costly fines or penalties for illegal dumping or groundwater contamination. Additionally, most commercial grease pumping service companies have disposal alternatives that effectively recycle the waste into usable bio fuel. Your grease pumping professional will also record, according to EPA standards, the result of fatty oils and grease (FOG) pumped out. In fact, most companies will keep documentation of the complete history of your trap grease to ensure that its disposal is handled properly and according to acceptable regulatory standards.
