Grease washed off your dishes can clog your septic system.
Kitchen wastewater contains contaminants that the plumbing industry refers to as FOG (fats, oils and grease). FOG does not break down as readily as normal household wastewater from showers and toilets. Fat and grease will disrupt the normal flow and digestion of a septic system. Grease traps, also called grease interceptors, separate FOG from wastewater before it enters the septic system. To perform the task of separation properly, a grease trap is the first tank that kitchen wastewater flows into before moving on to the septic system.
Instructions
1. Locate the wastewater drain line where it exits the house. The line normally runs 6 to 12 inches underground. Probe the ground with the sharpened steel rod to find the line.
2. Measure the outside dimensions of the grease trap tank.
3. Dig a hole around the wastewater line. Excavate the hole so it's slightly larger than the grease trap on all sides, to facilitate installation. Dig deep enough so the tank's inlet and outlet will fit into the wastewater line.
4. Turn on the water in the house. Allow it to run for 10 to 15 minutes so fresh water will flush out the line. Turn off the water. Don't operate any water-consuming appliances, including sinks or toilets, while you are installing the grease trap.
5. Cut the wastewater line with a hacksaw. Remove a section that's slightly longer than the distance between the inlet and outlet of the grease trap.
6. Slide a rubber boot coupler over each end of the exposed wastewater pipe.
7. Set the grease trap into the hole. Ensure that the direction of flow, as indicated on the tank with an arrow, is pointing away from the house. The grease trap will not operate if installed backward.
8. Line up the wastewater line sections with the inlet and outlet of the grease trap. Slide the rubber boot couplers over the grease trap connections. Tighten the two clamps with a screwdriver.
9. Fill the grease trap with water through the access cover in the top of the tank. Check the connections for any sign of leaks when the tank is full. Make any necessary adjustments.
10. Refill the hole around the grease trap with dirt. Tamp it down with a shovel.
Tips Warnings
Ensure the bottom of the grease trap sits on level ground to support its weight.
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