What is a grease trap and how necessary is it according to Thai law?

 
     Nowadays, the problem of wastewater and clogged drains is a problem that many houses and businesses have to face, especially restaurants and hotels that release household wastewater. Grease traps have become essential equipment to help separate fat from wastewater before releasing it into the drainage system. But grease traps are not just an option for cleanliness. Because according to Thai law, there are also regulations regarding the installation of this equipment. 

     Grease traps are important in filtering and separating grease from water before releasing it into the public drainage system.  If grease traps are not installed or are not properly maintained,  which results in the release of grease or wastewater into the drain, it may be considered an offense under Section 18 or 19 of this Act.

     Today, Horecaware would like to introduce external grease traps and the working process of grease traps, which are popular among merchants who want to install them in their shops. They are convenient to use and easy to understand.
 

Grease trap capture process

1. Food strainer

When we connect water to the grease trap, the first stage is a screen that filters food scraps. It has small holes for water to flow through and release into the grease trap.

2. Separation of fat in the tank

All wastewater will enter the grease separator, where the grease will float on the surface of the water because grease is less dense than water, making the water cleaner.

3. Grease discharge channel

When the fat floats, there will be a drain pipe next to the water outlet. It is recommended to drain the fat for 7-10 days or if you notice that there is a lot of fat, you should put a bucket of water under it. After draining the fat, store the drain pipe neatly.

4. Drainage hole in the tank

You can release the remaining water in the tank for cleaning by removing the screw cap at the bottom of the tank and spraying it with water. This should be done every 6 months or more often.

5. Maintenance of grease traps

     Grease traps are important devices that help prevent grease and food waste from flowing into the drain, which can cause blockages and odors. If not properly maintained, it can reduce efficiency and cause problems in the drain system.

Grease trap maintenance steps

1. Clean up

• Grease traps should be cleaned regularly every 6 weeks, depending on usage.

• If it is a restaurant or business with a lot of accumulated fat, cleaning may be required more frequently.

2. Remove the fat from the container.

• Remove the fat from the tank every 7-10 days.

• If it is a restaurant, it should be checked more often in 1-2 days.

3. Eliminate food scraps

• Scoop out any food scraps and sediment that remain at the bottom of the tank.

• Rinse with clean water and use a brush to scrub off any stuck dirt.

4. Clean the tank and remove odor.

• Use an environmentally friendly cleaner, such as vinegar or baking soda mixed with warm water, to help reduce unpleasant odors.

• Do not use strong corrosive chemicals as this may cause the tank to deteriorate faster.

5. Check the grease trap.

• Check that the tank is free of cracks or leaks.
• Check the inlet and outlet pipes for blockage.
• If the tank is damaged or severely clogged, a professional technician should be called in to repair it.

Benefits of installing a grease trap

1. Grease traps help separate grease and food particles from wastewater before it enters the sewage system.

2. Reduces clogged pipes, which may be caused by the accumulation of hardened fat that sticks inside the pipes.

3. Helps reduce the decay of fat and food scraps that may accumulate in the drain.

4. Make the kitchen area and surrounding area smell clean, without any bad smell from wastewater.

5. Grease traps help filter grease waste before releasing water into the wastewater treatment system.

6. Reduce the amount of fat in wastewater, allowing wastewater treatment plants to operate more efficiently.

7. Reduce the release of fat and food waste into rivers and canals, which may cause wastewater problems and destroy the ecosystem.

8. Helps reduce water pollution, makes water sources clean and does not affect aquatic animals.

9. Without a grease trap, pipes can get clogged more often and require more expensive pipe cleaning or drainage repairs.

10. Prevents the accumulation of germs and bacteria caused by fat and spoiled food scraps.

11. The separated fat can be recycled, such as to produce biodiesel, or used in other industries.

Article Summary: Grease Trap and Its Benefits

     Grease traps are devices that help separate fat and food scraps from wastewater before they enter the drainage system. They help prevent clogged pipes, reduce odors, and reduce the burden of wastewater treatment. They also help preserve the environment by reducing the release of fat into water sources, reducing pipe repair costs, and promoting hygiene. If properly installed and maintained, the drainage system will work more efficiently.