Ever wondered why a mysterious pit is being dug in front of certain retail properties? If you spot a commercial real estate broker like us smiling near a hole in a parking lot, there’s a good chance we know what’s going on. For those who aren’t in the know, that pit is where a Hydromechanical Grease Interceptor (HGI), also known as a grease trap, will be installed. These are a crucial component for any restaurant or food service tenant.
What Is a Grease Trap?
A grease interceptor is a plumbing device designed to intercept fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from wastewater before it enters the municipal sewer system. This is especially important in the restaurant industry, where significant amounts of grease are produced in daily operations. Without proper grease management, FOG can accumulate in the pipes, leading to costly clogs, sewer backups, and environmental harm.
Grease interceptors work by slowing the flow of wastewater from the kitchen. The reduction in flow allows the FOG to cool and float to the surface, while heavier solids settle at the bottom. Only the water, free from fats and oils, flows into the sewer system. Regular maintenance and cleaning of these interceptors are essential to prevent system overloads and to keep the wastewater flowing smoothly.
Types of Grease Interceptors
There are two primary types of grease interceptors:
- Hydromechanical Grease Interceptors (HGI) – These are typically smaller units installed close to the kitchen, making them ideal for locations with limited space.
- Gravity Grease Interceptors (GGI) – These are larger systems, often installed underground, and are more suitable for high-volume operations. They rely on gravity and longer retention times to separate FOG from wastewater.
For the new restaurant tenant at Rainbow Village, we’re installing an HGI, which is perfectly suited for their operational needs.
Why Grease Interceptors Matter in Commercial Real Estate
For commercial property owners and tenants, grease traps play a vital role in property management. By preventing costly plumbing issues, these interceptors help maintain the long-term value of a property. Landlords can avoid the headache of repeated maintenance calls, and tenants can operate without interruptions caused by clogged drains. Moreover, keeping fats and oils out of the sewer system contributes to a more environmentally friendly operation, aligning with local regulations.
The installation you see in the photo above is part of the preparation for a new restaurant coming soon to Rainbow Village. This property is strategically located on S Rainbow Blvd, with this grease trap installation being one of many steps to get the space ready for the new tenant. With every step, we ensure that both the tenant’s and the property’s needs are met.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
While grease interceptors are vital, they’re not a “set it and forget it” solution. Proper maintenance is key. FOG buildup can eventually block the interceptor, causing backups that may damage plumbing and lead to costly repairs. Typically, grease traps should be cleaned every 90 days or more frequently depending on the restaurant’s activity level. By keeping on top of maintenance, restaurant tenants can avoid plumbing disasters, hefty fines, and potential environmental violations.
Stay tuned for more updates as we prepare to welcome this exciting new tenant! In the meantime, can you guess what type of restaurant is on its way? Feel free to drop your guesses below!
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