Grease Interceptors
Grease Interceptors | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | Monteagle
When busy Monteagle kitchens are turning out plate after plate of Southern favorites, the last thing chefs want is a grease-clogged drain shutting down service. HEP keeps restaurants, hotels, and institutional kitchens humming with fast, code-compliant installation, repair, and pumping of grease interceptors—the unsung heroes of commercial plumbing systems. Our licensed technicians map out flow rates, size the right interceptor, and handle every permit so you stay focused on food, not fines.
From 24/7 emergency backups to scheduled maintenance that fits your off-hours, we arrive stocked with industrial jetters, vacuum rigs, and replacement parts to finish the job on the first visit. Clear communication, upfront pricing, and a spotless workspace when we leave are standard. Trust HEP to protect your lines, your reputation, and Monteagle’s environment—because the only thing that should linger from your kitchen is the aroma of great food, never grease.
FAQs
What is a grease interceptor and why is it required for commercial kitchens in Monteagle?
A grease interceptor—also called a grease trap—is a plumbing device installed on the drain line to capture fats, oils, and grease (FOG) before they enter the sanitary sewer. Monteagle follows Tennessee Plumbing Code §1003.3, which mandates grease interceptors for food-service establishments to prevent sewer clogs, backups, and costly municipal fines. By separating heavier food solids and lighter grease from wastewater, the device protects both your facility’s plumbing and the town’s treatment plant.
How often should a grease interceptor be pumped or serviced?
Industry best practice and Monteagle’s municipal guidelines recommend servicing when the interceptor reaches 25 % of its liquid capacity in combined FOG and solids—typically every 30–90 days for busy restaurants. High-volume fry kitchens may need monthly pumping, while low-volume cafeterias can often stretch to quarterly service. A certified plumber will gauge the build-up, document the cleaning in your maintenance log, and provide a manifest you can show local inspectors.
What local codes and permits apply to grease interceptor installation in Monteagle, TN?
New or replacement units must comply with Tennessee Plumbing Code Chapters 10 & 11, A.S.M.E. A112.14.3/4 performance standards, and Monteagle Utility Department discharge limits (<100 mg/L FOG). Before work starts, you’ll need: (1) a plumbing permit from the Town of Monteagle Building & Codes Office, (2) an interceptor sizing calculation approved by the utility department, and (3) a final inspection verifying proper location, venting, sample port, and access covers. Failure to secure permits can lead to fines or rejection of your food-service license.
What size grease interceptor does my business need?
Sizing is based on the combined flow rate of sinks, dishwashers, floor drains, and mop basins that handle food waste. Using the 2021 IPC formula—tank volume = (total fixture flow rate × drainage factor) × retention time—most fast-food venues require 25–50 gpm/50-100-gal units, while full-service restaurants may need 75–100 gpm/150-250-gal models. Our licensed plumbers perform on-site fixture counts, peak-flow calculations, and allow future growth so you comply with code and avoid frequent pump-outs.
What warning signs indicate my grease interceptor needs maintenance or replacement?
• Slow floor drains or sink backups. • Persistent kitchen odors near the interceptor lid. • Grease slicks in the parking lot clean-out or downstream manholes—evidence FOG is bypassing the trap. • Rusted, cracked, or missing access lids that pose safety hazards. • Frequent pump-outs (less than 30 days between services) indicating an undersized or deteriorated unit. If you notice any of these issues, schedule an inspection; neglect can lead to emergency closures and health department citations.
Why choose our Monteagle commercial plumbing team for grease interceptor services?
We are licensed Tennessee master plumbers specializing in food-service facilities. Our services include turnkey design, CAD drawings for permit submission, Code-compliant concrete or HDPE units, same-day emergency pump-outs, and 24/7 backup support. We use hydro-jetting and enzyme treatments to restore line flow without harsh chemicals, and we file all service manifests directly with the Monteagle Utility Department to keep you inspection-ready. Local ownership means faster response times and familiarity with city inspectors—saving you downtime and fines.