Grease Trap Calculator
Calculation Result
Grease Trap Calculator: The Ultimate Sizing and Maintenance Guide (2024)
What Is a Grease Trap Calculator?
A grease trap calculator is a tool used to determine the correct size of a grease interceptor needed for a commercial kitchen. Proper sizing ensures compliance with local plumbing codes, prevents clogs, and reduces maintenance costs.
At 907 Heating and Plumbing, we specialize in grease trap installation, maintenance, and compliance—helping businesses avoid costly fines and plumbing disasters.
Why Proper Grease Trap Sizing Matters
An undersized grease trap leads to:
- Frequent blockages in plumbing lines
- Increased maintenance costs
- Non-compliance fines from health departments
- Environmental hazards from grease discharge
An oversized trap wastes money and space. A grease trap calculator ensures the right balance.
Types of Grease Traps
1. Hydromechanical Grease Traps (HGT)
- Used indoors (under sinks, near dishwashers)
- Handles low to medium flow rates (up to 50 GPM)
- Requires frequent cleaning (weekly/monthly)
2. Gravity Grease Traps (GGT)
- Installed underground or outdoors
- Handles high-capacity kitchens (50+ GPM)
- Needs less frequent pumping (quarterly/annually)
At 907 Heating and Plumbing, we help businesses choose the right type based on kitchen size and local regulations.
How to Calculate Grease Trap Size
The most common method follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) formula:
Formula:
Size (Gallons) = (Flow Rate (GPM) × Retention Time (Minutes)) / 2
Step-by-Step Calculation Example
Scenario: A restaurant with:
- Peak flow rate: 30 gallons per minute (GPM)
- Required retention time: 2 minutes (per UPC)
Calculation:
(30 GPM × 2 minutes) / 2 = 30-gallon grease trap
Need help? Use our free grease trap sizing tool or call 907 Heating and Plumbing for expert assistance.
Grease Trap Maintenance Tips
To keep your grease trap functioning efficiently:
- Weekly Inspections – Check for buildup and odors.
- Regular Pumping – Every 1-3 months, depending on usage.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals – They disrupt bacterial breakdown.
- Train Staff – Prevent grease dumping in sinks.
*907 Heating and Plumbing offers scheduled grease trap cleaning to keep your kitchen compliant and clog-free.*
Common Grease Trap Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Ignoring Local Codes – Regulations vary by city/state.
- ❌ Wrong Placement – Too far from grease sources reduces efficiency.
- ❌ Skipping Maintenance – Leads to backups and fines.
- ❌ DIY Installation Errors – Improper slope or venting causes failure.
Our licensed plumbers ensure code-compliant installation and maintenance for hassle-free operations.
Grease Trap Calculator FAQs
1. How often should a grease trap be cleaned?
Most commercial kitchens require monthly cleaning, but high-volume restaurants may need it every 2-3 weeks.
2. What size grease trap do I need for a 50-seat restaurant?
A 20-30 gallon grease trap is typical, but exact sizing depends on flow rate and fixture count.
3. Can I use a grease trap calculator for home kitchens?
Residential kitchens usually don't need grease traps unless required by local codes.
4. What happens if my grease trap is too small?
It will clog frequently, cause sewer backups, and violate health codes—leading to fines or shutdowns.
Final Thoughts
Using a grease trap calculator ensures your commercial kitchen meets regulations and operates smoothly. Whether you need sizing help, installation, or maintenance, 907 Heating and Plumbing is your trusted expert.
For more plumbing tips, check out our blog or contact our team!