What is the primary function of a grease trap?

The primary function of a grease trap is to intercept grease and other food products before they enter the main waste disposal system, such as a septic tank or sewer line. Grease traps are designed to capture fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from wastewater, which can accumulate and cause blockages in plumbing systems. By preventing these substances from entering the drainage system, grease traps help reduce the risk of clogs and backups, promote proper wastewater treatment, and protect the environment by minimizing pollution.

Grease traps function by allowing wastewater to cool and separate, enabling the lighter grease to float to the surface, where it can be retained while allowing cleaner water to exit the trap. This process is crucial in commercial kitchens, restaurants, and food processing facilities, where large amounts of grease are produced during food preparation and cleaning.

In contrast, options such as processing human waste, containing rainwater, or serving as a primary septic tank do not accurately describe the specific role of a grease trap. While septic tanks handle human waste and treat sewage, grease traps focus exclusively on managing grease and food-related waste, making their purpose distinct and very specialized.