Which of the following is a function of grease traps?

A grease trap is specifically designed to capture and separate fats, oils, and grease (commonly referred to as FOGs) from wastewater before it enters the septic system or municipal sewer. One primary function of a grease trap is to slow the flow of wastewater, allowing these FOGs to rise to the surface and be contained within the trap.

By reducing the speed of the water flow, the grease trap gives FOGs sufficient time to float and accumulate, where they can be periodically removed, preventing clogs and potential damage to the septic system. This process is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of the waste management system and mitigating environmental impacts.

Understanding the specific mechanisms of grease traps is essential, as they do not eliminate all waste nor increase the temperature of the water. Instead, they focus on the effective separation of FOGs to ensure proper wastewater treatment and system flow.