FOG is not a modern byproduct – it has posed a risk to sewer systems for as long as they’ve been in use. Before modern FOG management equipment and techniques, it was necessary to send individuals to the sewers to manually scoop out blockages by hand. Even to this day, FOG blockages in sewers require manual removal by city workers. Although the equipment is newer, it’s still a highly unpleasant exercise.

Grease traps have improved significantly since their invention in 1884, and can effectively keep fats, grease and oils (FOGs) from hindering wastewater treatment as long as they are properly cleaned and maintained. One of the more recent grease trap improvements has been the incorporation of smart technology, which makes monitoring FOG levels far easier and less intensive.

How Smart Grease Traps Work

Smart grease trap systems are equipped with sensors that alert commercial kitchens when cleaning is necessary well before they run the risk of violating local ordinances regarding FOG volume in the grease trap.

There are also smart fryer oil systems that can determine the purity of the oil and when it should be disposed of.

Smart Grease Trap System Features

Real-Time Monitoring

Smart grease traps are equipped with monitors that gauge the level of grease, oil and food solids within your system in real time. These monitors provide timely alerts that notify commercial kitchen staff when the FOGs in your trap nears the 25 percent limit[1] , drastically reducing your risk of being in violation of regulations if a surprise inspection occurs.

Data Analytics and Reporting

Smart systems provide continuous data collection to facilitate seamless kitchen operations, alerting business owners when maintenance is required based on actual need instead of on a fixed schedule. This can enhance cleaning efficiency, reduce your cleaning costs if you had previously scheduled cleanings more often than was really necessary and preserve the health standards of your kitchen.

Automated Dosing and Biological Treatment

Some advanced smart grease traps incorporate automated dosing mechanisms that introduce enzymes into the trap to help break down FOG and solids. The problem is grease can potentially re-coagulate further down the sewer system and defeat the purpose of having the grease trap in the first place.

Atlanta and other Georgia municipalities typically advise against the use of enzymes in grease traps, which is why you should always consult with your local watershed regulators prior to adopting any new grease trap management techniques.

Benefits of Smart Grease Trap Systems

• Less Pumping: Because smart systems offer continuous monitoring, they can save businesses money on pumping and cleaning, although businesses will still need to adhere to the minimal time intervals required by local regulators.

• Remote Management: The monitors on smart grease traps can alert facility managers remotely, allowing them to view data and address rising levels promptly even if your business spans multiple locations.

• Prevent Emergency Services: A smart grease trap system can limit the need for emergency services in cases of FOG exceeding the maximum limit, minimizing disruptions to your kitchen operations.

• Extended Lifespan: Because smart systems provide timely alerts for cleaning and maintenance, they can extend the lifespan of your business’s grease trap, maintaining optimal functionality for longer and potentially delaying the need for replacement.

• Cost Savings: Although smart grease trap systems can be an expensive investment, they have the potential to save you a substantial amount in the long term on maintenance and limit emergency interventions and regulatory fines.

• Environmental Benefits: Smart grease trap systems can help prevent FOG from entering the wastewater system, reducing the risk of blockages as well as violations of state environmental regulations.

Is Buying a Smart Grease Trap System Worth It?

You don’t necessarily have to get a new grease trap installed to make use of FOG monitoring systems. They can be installed into pre-existing grease traps.

Replacing a grease trap can be a significant expense for businesses. Making them last as long as possible is almost always preferable. You likely won’t have to replace your current grease trap to leverage new smart technologies to make grease trap cleaning more efficient. 

Georgia Businesses Have Relied on Us for Prompt and Professional Grease Trap Maintenance and Fryer Oil Recycling Services for Over 15 Years

If you want to keep your current systems but are concerned about FOG overflow or plumbing seepage, the team at Southern Green Industries can help. We provide reliable grease trap cleaning and fryer oil services that will ensure your business remains safe, efficient and compliant with state regulations.

Call (404) 419-6887 to receive a free service quote for your business today.