Grease traps: those imperative kitchen devices that capture wastes and solids before they can enter the water system. Naturally, they are a necessity for any commercial kitchen, especially as they reduce the amount of fats, oils and greases (FOGs) that enter Aussie sewer systems.
That being said, there are a few things every bar, cafe and restaurant owner should know about their system to ensure that it’s not going rancid and causing all kinds of kitchen mayhem. Here, we are going to talk about some of the essential things to know about your system and why you need to properly maintain it:
- What are they, exactly?
When it comes to grease trap maintenance, it’s important to know that there are two different types:
- In-kitchen units that are typically located near the sink or dishwasher and are designed to collect FOGs before they can enter the wastewater system, and;
- Large, outdoor units that collect thousands of gallons and are designed to collect far more FOGs than the in-kitchen systems.
They are both designed to do one thing: keep FOGs out of the sewer system. Naturally, the system will always contain some FOGs, but having these essential devices in your kitchen (or just outside) is imperative for limiting that amount.
- You should have them regularly cleaned
A filthy system can cause serious problems for your business. Not only can it overflow and cause an expensive plumbing problem, but it can also create a gnarly odour that may even permeate into your dining area. Neither of these are problems you want for your business!
With this in mind, it’s necessary to have your system regularly cleaned. This will ensure that your business is free from these two unwanted risks and that you don’t have to worry about the system overflowing or creating a nasty odour any time soon.
- How often should you have your system cleaned
You want to maintain your system in a manner that keeps the FOGs down below a level of 25%. Therefore, this depends largely on the size of your system, as some systems may require one clean per quarter or even one clean per month. The last thing you want is to allow your system to become too full as this could cause one of those dreaded plumbing problems or overflows. As such, you should take note of the levels in your system and have it cleaned accordingly.
- What happens if you don’t clean the system?
A lot can happen if you don’t clean your system. We’ve already mentioned plumbing problems, overflow and foul odours, but FOGs can actually harden within your system and make cleaning it that much harder. Your system might even experience a clog that makes cleaning it that much harder (and therefore more expensive!). Therefore, one of the best things you can do for your system is to have it regularly cleaned and avoid these unwanted expenses.
- How are they cleaned?
Your technician will come out to your bar, cafe or restaurant and provide a full cleaning service. This includes pumping the system to ensure any of those unwanted FOGs are cleared from the system. They will also measure if your FOGs are accumulating too high and perhaps request that you increase your cleaning frequency if levels are getting too high.
So, these are five imperatives to be aware of when it comes to your grease trap and ensuring that it is properly maintained!