Grease collection is vital for maintaining commercial kitchens and preventing fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from entering the drains. It keeps systems functional, eco-friendly, and compliant with regulations.
This article covers the process, disposal methods, and how to manage and recycle grease using systems like grease traps and grease recovery units such as the Filta Cyclone.
The Process of Grease Collection
Grease traps are installed in commercial kitchens to separate fats, oils, and grease from wastewater before they enter the sewage system. Over time, these traps accumulate grease, which needs to be collected and disposed of regularly. The key to effective grease collection is knowing when it’s time for emptying.
Grease can also be collected in Grease Recovery Units, a more advanced type of grease trap that separates fats, oils, and grease from the water, and uses technology with the unit to capture the oil for recycled use.
Grease Collection using a Grease Trap:
When is the Right Time for Grease Collection?
One of the first signs that your grease trap needs emptying is when you notice slow drainage or unpleasant odours emanating from sinks or drains. Additionally, when the trap becomes full, it can no longer function properly, which could lead to clogs and back-ups in the system
Can Grease be Stored and How Often Should it be Collected?
Grease is not meant to be stored for long periods, as it can quickly begin to decompose and produce harmful bacteria or odours. In commercial kitchens, grease collection should be carried out regularly to prevent overflow and ensure the trap continues to work efficiently. It’s advisable to have your grease traps emptied every 1-3 months, depending on the volume of grease your kitchen produces. High-volume kitchens may require more frequent servicing.
How is Grease Disposed Of?
The disposal of grease depends largely on its type. There are two main categories of grease: yellow grease and brown grease.
Yellow grease is typically cleaner and comes from grease recovery units (GRUs) or waste cooking oils from restaurants. It’s much easier to recycle, often being converted into biodiesel, an eco-friendly alternative fuel. On the other hand, brown grease from commercial grease traps is contaminated and must never be poured down drains.
Filta is fully licensed by the Environment Agency to collect waste responsibly, helping businesses remain compliant and protect the environment. Once collected, the waste is transported to a licensed waste management site. We then provide customers with a waste transfer note, which should be retained for two years and made available for inspection under Section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
The Don’ts of Grease Disposal
Grease should never be disposed of by dumping it down the drain or in the general waste. Doing so can lead to significant blockages in the drainage system and contribute to water pollution. It’s essential that businesses adhere to proper grease disposal guidelines and always use professional services to manage grease collection and disposal.
Grease Collection using Grease Recovery Units:
The Filta Cyclone is an advanced grease recovery unit (GRU) that efficiently removes grease directly from sinks, unlike traditional grease traps that passively collect FOG. While grease traps require frequent cleaning to prevent blockages, the Filta Cyclone continuously extracts grease, reducing maintenance and improving sustainability.
What is Collected Grease Recycled Into?
One of the most common uses of recycled grease is as biodiesel. This biofuel is an environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based diesel, which contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, grease can be processed into animal feed or used as an ingredient in industrial lubricants.
Using the Filta Cyclone helps businesses meet FOG regulations, protecting water systems and avoiding fines. For more on compliance, visit Filta’s news section.