Grease Trap Pumping Phippsburg, Maine
Grease Interceptor and Grease Trap Pumping Phippsburg, Maine
We offer one-time and regularly scheduled grease interceptor pump outs
Grease interceptors or “grease traps” are a treatment device installed in the plumbing line within a commercial food services business to control the flow of wastewater to allow fats, oils and grease to float to the top and the solids to settle to the bottom. This simple system is very effective at removing FOG (fats, oils and grease) before they can reach the city sewer system.
C&C Construction and Septic Services is a vacuum truck company that specializes in pumping out septic tanks of all sizes. We are based out of Phippsburg, Maine and serving Sagadahoc County and the surrounding area. Whether you need a septic tank pumped as part of your regular system maintenance, or because of a septic system emergency, C&C Construction and Septic Services can help!
In the state of Maine, grease trap pumping regulations are overseen by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and local municipalities. The regulations pertaining to grease traps can vary depending on the specific city or town, so it's important to consult with your local authorities to determine the precise requirements for your area.
Some common requirements for grease trap pumping in the state of Maine include:
- Regular inspection and maintenance of grease traps and interceptors, with pumping intervals typically based on the 25% rule (i.e., the trap should be pumped when 25% of its capacity is filled with FOG and settled solids).
- Proper disposal of pumped grease and solids at a licensed disposal facility, in compliance with local regulations.
- Maintaining records of grease trap and interceptor pumping, including dates of service, the volume of grease removed, and the disposal facility used.
- Compliance with local building codes and plumbing requirements, which may include specifications for grease trap size, design, and installation.
The exact regulations can vary in different municipalities. Working with an experienced company like C&C Construction and Septic Services can ensure your facility remains compliant with local ordinances.
Facilities We Offer Grease Trap Pumping To:
- Restaurants and food services
- Hotel kitchens
- Cafeterias
- Industrial
- Manufacturing
There are thousands of businesses in throughout the state of Maine that identify as food services operations that discharge wastewater containing F.O.G (fat, oil and grease). These facilities must install and maintain a grease trap/interceptor in accordance with local codes. If you own a busy restaurant or commercial food services facility you already know the importance of having your grease traps or grease interceptors pumped out regularly.
Fixtures Required To Be Connected To Grease Traps Are:
- Sinks used for washing pots, pans, dishes, cutlery and kitchen utensils, including pre-rinse sinks.
- Self-cleaning exhaust hoods installed over commercial cooking equipment.
- Commercial cooking equipment, such as tilt kettles, designed to discharge to a sewer or drain.
- Any fixtures that discharge wastewater that contains FOG (fats, oils or grease).
As an operator of a food services operation, it is your responsibility to pump out your grease interceptor when the oil and grease inside is in excess of the lesser of six inches or 25% of the wetted height of the grease interceptor. A record of all grease interceptor inspection and maintenance activities must be kept at your facility and be available for on site inspection by a health officer.
The size of your establishment, the size of your grease interceptor and the amount of FOG contaminated waste water you send down the drain will determine the frequency of your required pump outs. Waiting too long could result in clogs, foul odors, fines and other maintenance issues, so it’s recommended that busy facilities have their grease interceptors pumped out and rinsed every 1-3 months. Your specific situation may vary.
If you need to have your grease trap pumped please call (207) 751-3715 or fill out our online contact form and we will get back to you promptly to schedule a time to provide services.
Commonly Asked Questions About Grease Trap Pumping
A grease trap or grease interceptor is a plumbing device designed to capture and prevent fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from entering the public sewer system. These devices are typically installed in commercial establishments, such as restaurants and cafeterias, where large amounts of grease are generated during food preparation.
Regular pumping and maintenance of grease traps and interceptors are essential to ensure their proper functioning. Over time, FOG accumulates within the trap or interceptor and can lead to blockages, foul odors, and even the risk of backups. Pumping out the accumulated grease ensures that the device continues to effectively prevent FOG from entering the sewer system, thereby protecting the environment and reducing the risk of costly plumbing issues.
The frequency of grease trap and interceptor pumping varies depending on the size of the device, the volume of grease generated, and local regulations. In general, grease traps should be pumped when 25% of the trap's capacity is filled with FOG and settled solids. For most commercial establishments, this typically translates to pumping intervals of every one to three months. However, it's essential to consult with a professional and comply with local regulations to determine the appropriate pumping schedule for your specific situation.
Grease trap and interceptor pumping typically involves the following steps:
- We will arrive at the site and assess the access points for the grease trap or interceptor.
- Our technician removes any covers or lids to access the device.
- The accumulated FOG and solids are vacuumed out of the trap or interceptor using a hose connected to our vacuum truck.
- The device's interior is inspected for signs of damage, wear, or other issues that may require repair or maintenance.
- Our technician replaces the covers or lids and ensures that the grease trap or interceptor is secure and functioning properly.
The grease and solids removed from the trap or interceptor are typically transported to a licensed disposal facility, where they are processed and disposed of according to local regulations. In some cases, the collected grease may be recycled into useful products, such as biodiesel or animal feed.
The cost of grease trap and interceptor pumping varies based on factors such as the size of the device, the amount of grease to be removed, and the distance to the disposal station. Keep in mind that regular pumping and maintenance of your grease trap can help prevent costly plumbing issues and environmental fines, making it a worthwhile investment for your business.