Grease traps are one of the most important components of a professional commercial kitchen. Not only do they keep your pipes clean, but they also keep the drainage system in your establishment running smoothly. Grease traps also protect your plumbing – and the environment. The installation of a grease trap is an important detail that needs to be dealt with right away, as there are many common issues that can arise when you neglect it!
The Importance Of Grease Traps
The importance of grease traps lies in their ability to prevent fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from entering the sewage system. FOG can cause blockages and backups in the sewage system, leading to costly repairs and potential health hazards. Grease traps work by intercepting FOG before it enters the sewage system and allowing it to separate and solidify, making it easier to remove and dispose of properly.
Grease traps also play an important role in protecting the environment by preventing FOG from entering waterways and potentially harming aquatic life. Additionally, they are important for protecting public health by preventing the buildup of FOG in the sewage system which can cause unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions. Overall, grease traps are essential for protecting both public health and the environment, and for preventing costly repairs to the sewage system.
Are Grease Traps Required by low for Food Service Establishments in Toronto?
According to the City of Toronto Sewers By-law, it is mandatory for all establishments that cook, heat, process, or prepare food on-site to have a grease trap (interceptor) installed, operated, and maintained on any pipe that connects directly or indirectly to the sanitary sewer system. This includes food service establishments such as restaurants, coffee shops, banquet halls, child care centers, and mobile food vendors. Failure to comply with this regulation can result in fines of up to $100,000. The Food Service Establishment (FSE) Environmental Code of Practice provides a comprehensive list of the requirements and regulations for grease traps in food service establishments in Toronto.
Problems that frequently encountered with grease traps
Crossover clog
A crossover clog in a grease trap occurs when grease, oil, and other materials build up and block the flow of water through the trap. This can cause the trap to become less effective and can lead to overflowing or backups. Crossover clogs can occur when grease and oil are not properly disposed of and instead are poured down the drain, causing a build-up in the trap. They can also occur when the trap is not cleaned and maintained regularly.
Crossover clogs can be prevented by properly disposing of grease and oil, and by regularly cleaning and maintaining the trap. If a crossover clog does occur, it will typically need to be removed by a professional plumber or grease trap cleaning service.
Clog in the incoming line
If your grease trap is clogged, it’s likely because of an incoming line. This line is responsible for bringing grease and oil into the trap, so if it’s blocked, the trap won’t be able to do its job properly. There are a few things you can do to clear a clogged incoming line:
- Use a plunger to try and dislodge the blockage.
- Pour hot water down the line to melt any grease that may be causing the problem.
- Use a plumber’s snake or auger to reach down into the line and clear the blockage.
If you’re unable to clear the blockage yourself, you’ll need to call a professional plumber to come and take care of it for you.
Clog in the outgoing line
If you notice that your grease trap is starting to back up, it’s likely because there is a clog in the outgoing line. This is usually caused by a buildup of grease and other debris in the line. To clear a clog in the outgoing line, you’ll need to snake the line with a drain auger. Start by snaking the auger into the clean-out port at the end of the line. Slowly feed the auger into the line until you reach the clog. Once you’ve located the clog, use the auger to break it up and clear it from the line.
Bad smell
If you notice a bad smell coming from your grease trap, it could be due to a number of factors. The most common cause of a bad smell is a build-up of grease and sludge in the trap. This can happen if the trap is not cleaned regularly, or if it is not sized properly for the amount of grease being produced.
Another possible cause of a bad smell is an issue with the baffles. Baffles are designed to keep grease and solids from flowing through the trap and into the sewer line. If the baffles are damaged or not installed properly, they can allow grease and solids to bypass the trap, which can lead to a bad smell.
If you notice a bad smell coming from your grease trap, it is important to take action right away. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse, and could eventually lead to backups and overflows. The best way to handle a smelly grease trap is to have it professionally cleaned by a company that specializes in this service.
Overflowing Grease Trap
One of the most common issues with grease traps is an overflowing trap. This can be caused by a variety of things, such as a clog in the trap, a build-up of grease and debris in the trap, or even a broken pipe leading to the trap. Whatever the cause, an overflowing grease trap can be a serious problem that needs to be fixed immediately.
The first thing you should do if your grease trap is overflowing is to check for any clogs or blockages. If there are any, try to remove them as best you can. If the clog is too big or difficult to remove, you may need to call a professional plumber. Once the clog is removed, you should also check for any leaks in the pipes leading to the grease trap. If there are any leaks, they will need to be repaired before the problem can be fully fixed.
If there are no clogs or leaks and your grease trap is still overflowing, it is likely that there is simply too much grease and debris in the trap. In this case, you will need to have the trap cleaned out by a professional. They will have the tools and expertise necessary to clean out your grease trap quickly and efficiently so that it is no longer a problem.
For Grease Trap Maintenance Get Help from a Professional
Your business’s grease trap is an essential component of your wastewater management system. A properly functioning grease trap intercepts Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) from entering the sewer system, and prevents costly blockages and backups. At Plumber To Your Door, we have the experience and expertise to keep your grease trap working properly.
We offer comprehensive grease trap services including:
Cleaning – We will clean your grease trap on a regular basis to ensure it is functioning properly.
Installation – If you don’t have a grease trap, we can install one for you. We will also install any necessary piping and connections.
Repair – If your grease trap is not working properly, we can troubleshoot the problem and make repairs as needed.