Rhode Island Journeyman Plumber Practice Exam

How should a grease trap be sized for a commercial food waste grinder?

1. 3 feet underground

2. 4.5 feet underground

3. 5 feet underground

4. 6 feet underground

The correct answer is: 4.5 feet underground

The sizing of a grease trap is crucial for its effective performance in managing waste generated by commercial food operations, especially when food waste grinders are involved. A grease trap acts as a separator that retains grease and solid waste while allowing lighter wastewater to flow through. Selecting a size of 4.5 feet underground is supported by several factors, including the discharging capacity required to handle the volume of waste produced in a commercial kitchen with a food waste grinder. Sizing it appropriately ensures that the grease trap effectively limits the amount of grease that enters the wastewater treatment system, promoting compliance with local regulations and reducing the risk of clogs and backups. The depth of 4.5 feet strikes a balance between efficiency and practicality, allowing for effective collection without the risk of the grease trap being too shallow, which could lead to inadequate separation and ineffective waste management. Additionally, it helps maintain proper flow rates and velocity, essential for keeping the system operational. Overall, appropriate sizing like 4.5 feet underground is vital for ensuring that the grease trap can handle the high volume and density of waste efficiently while promoting optimal maintenance and functionality.