Welcome to Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Page
Welcome to Southwaste Disposal’s Frequently Asked Questions. We understand that navigating the complexities of liquid waste disposal and management services can raise many questions. As a valued part of our commitment to providing unparalleled service, we have compiled this comprehensive FAQ page. Our goal is to offer you quick, accessible answers to your inquiries and share insights into our processes, services, and the values that drive our efforts in waste management.
If you’re looking for information about our specific waste disposal services, need guidance on managing your waste sustainably, or have questions about pricing and coverage areas, we’re here to help. We want you to know that we strive to meet and exceed your expectations, making sure that every interaction with Southwaste Disposal leaves you feeling informed and assured of your choice in us as your waste management partner.
Dive in to find answers, uncover valuable information, and learn more about how we can help you make the world a cleaner, greener place together. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly. Our team is always ready and eager to assist you.
Thank you for choosing Southwaste Disposal. Let’s embark on this journey of efficient and sustainable waste management together.
What Is A Grease Trap?
A grease trap, or grease interceptor, is a plumbing device. It is designed to capture and separate fats, oils, and grease, known as FOG, from wastewater. This happens before the wastewater enters a drainage or sewer system. These devices are widely used in restaurants, commercial kitchens, and any establishment where food preparation generates significant amounts of grease and oil. The purpose of a grease trap is to protect plumbing systems, prevent sewer blockages, and reduce the environmental impact of FOG on local wastewater treatment systems.
Origin and Concept
The original concept for a grease trap can be traced back to the early 19th century, when Nathaniel Whiting patented the device in California. The design of grease traps has not changed much over the years. They still use simple ideas like gravity. They also consider how fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are different in density from water. A baffle is also used to help separate these materials.
What size grease trap does my business need?
You may ask, “Is a bigger grease trap better?” Surprisingly, that answer is not always yes. Installing the right size grease trap is very important. If it is too big, it can harm your plumbing, interceptor, and drainage system.
We recommend contacting your local regulatory agency. They can help you verify the correct size needed for your location. This will ensure that all guidelines are met before you order a grease trap.
Where can I purchase a grease trap?
Southwaste can procure and install your grease trap. Call us or fill out our form for a free estimate.
Can I Perform Repairs on My Grease Trap Myself?
No, grease trap repair can be hazardous without the right equipment and safety knowledge. Our trap repair technicians are trained in confined space entry procedures by an OSHA-approved instructor. We have the tools to monitor gases during a confined space entry. We also have equipment to provide fresh air in that space.
Regardless of your choice for grease trap repair, ensure that the vendor you select has qualified technicians. They should also have the proper equipment for working in confined spaces. There have recently been fatalities from technicians entering traps without the proper training or equipment. Safety is of paramount importance when working inside of a grease trap.
Why Do Grease Traps Deteriorate and What Happens When They Do?
Grease trap deterioration does not happen overnight. It starts when microorganisms in your kitchen waste breed inside of the grease trap and digest the grease and food waste. This process causes the contents to turn acidic (lowering the pH). The longer you wait between cleanings, the more acidic the waste becomes. This acid environment erodes the concrete and metal that comprise the grease trap.
At first, the surface of the concrete erodes until you can visibly see the rebar that supports the concrete. When this happens, you can see a grid through the concrete surface. Eventually, the concrete erodes to the point that the rebar is exposed. The structural integrity of the walls and floor of the grease trap is compromised as the acid dissolves the metal rebar.
Eventually, a wall can collapse, which both makes the trap less effective and can lead to a collapse of the trap itself. A sinkhole may suddenly appear in your parking lot or drive-thru where your trap is located. This can put your customers and employees at risk.
Why Do Grease Traps Deteriorate and What Happens When They Do?
Grease trap deterioration does not happen overnight. It starts when microorganisms in your kitchen waste breed inside of the grease trap and digest the grease and food waste. This process causes the contents to turn acidic (lowering the pH). The longer you wait between cleanings, the more acidic the waste becomes. This acid environment erodes the concrete and metal that comprise the grease trap.
At first, the surface of the concrete erodes until you can visibly see the rebar that supports the concrete. When this happens, you can see a grid through the concrete surface. Eventually, the concrete erodes to the point that the rebar is exposed. The structural integrity of the walls and floor of the grease trap is compromised as the acid dissolves the metal rebar.
Eventually, a wall can collapse, which both makes the trap less effective and can lead to a collapse of the trap itself. A sinkhole may suddenly appear in your parking lot or drive-thru where your trap is located. This can put your customers and employees at risk.
What preventative maintenance is needed to maintain flow?
Proper grease trap maintenance is vital to maintain its efficiency. First, check with your city’s authority. Many have specific ordinances that outline your necessary pumping requirements and other vital information. Violating these ordinances may result in fines from the city or other law enforcement authorities. Additionally, regular maintenance helps prevent issues such as bad odors, backups, blockages, and overflows in sewer lines. These problems can lead to fines.
Can I check my lift station myself?
This is never recommended! In our experience, most customers who opt to check lift stations themselves end up paying more in the long run. Resolving lift station problems typically requires specialized equipment and a comprehensive understanding of how lift stations function. The skills needed to fix and maintain a lift station can only be acquired through time and experience.
Some common malfunctions in lift stations include control issues(bad floats or bad relays), clogged pumps/lines and/or broken check valves. You may have multiple problems occurring simultaneously and not know where to begin.
Many companies lack staff with the technical skills to check if the lift station is working correctly. This is a very narrow area of expertise that we have.
Even when our customers find a qualified staff member to monitor their lift stations, turnover can occur. This can lead to emergencies, overflows, and high repair costs. Short term, you may save some money, but you will likely pay much more in the long run if you don’t hire experts to check your lift station.
How Often Should I Hydro Jet My Lines?
An experienced account manager with Southwaste can best answer this question based on the following criteria:
- Type of food served
- Use of reusable or disposable
plates and serveware - Volume of customers
- Collections
- Kitchen waste management practices
We usually suggest hydro jetting the grease trap lines. These lines are also called trunk lines. It is best to do this twice a year. Hydro jetting of the incoming and outgoing lines can be done every year. This service can also include the inside lines, known as branch lines.
What do I do with my used cooking oil?
We encourage you to keep all used cooking oil in a specific container. Used cooking oil can be sold, so pouring it down the drain is a waste. Not only do you lose potential money, but you also risk spending more when that oil clogs your drain. While Southwaste primarily handles grease trap waste, we can help you find a company to dispose of your cooking oil properly. Call us today!
Why can’t I just use the garbage disposal to get rid of my waste?
Never use a garbage disposal in place of a grease trap. Using your garbage disposal can actually lead to more clogs in your drain lines.
This happens because the waste it creates has a “coleslaw” consistency. If you are unable to eliminate the use of garbage disposal, we recommend minimizing its use as much as possible.
Why do I need to keep my manifests in one place?
We highly recommend keeping a central file to store all of your grease trap cleaning manifests. If an enforcement officer visits your location, they will ask for your manifests. If you do not have them available, the enforcement officer will ask more questions. They may think you have not had your grease trap pumped. The enforcement officer may investigate your location more for other violations as you search for your manifests.
Southwaste leaves the “generator copy” at the store location when a service is complete. This is the copy that should be filed on-site for any inspector to review. The second, or “generator final copy,” is sent to the home office along with the invoice. This second copy can be filed at the home office. For added convenience, we also maintain all records electronically.