The Ultimate Grease Trap Buying Guide for Commercial Kitchens (UK)
Stainless steel manual grease traps are a smart, durable and cost-effective solution for commercial kitchens that need to manage fats, oils and grease (FOG) in wastewater. Choosing the right trap protects your drains, supports UK regulatory compliance and helps avoid costly blockages.
What Is a Grease Trap and How Does It Work?
Grease traps intercept FOG from sink and dishwasher wastewater before it enters your drainage system. They slow wastewater flow so:
- Grease and oils float to the top
- Heavier solids settle to the bottom
- Cleaner water exits to the sewer
This simple gravity separation process is reliable and effective when properly sized and maintained — which is why manual units remain a popular choice in UK commercial kitchens.
Why Stainless Steel Manual Grease Traps Are the Smart Choice
While there are various grease management systems on the market, stainless steel manual grease traps offer an excellent balance of performance, durability and cost.
Built for commercial use
- Corrosion resistant and hygienic
- Strong, heat-tolerant construction
- Easy-clean internal surfaces
- Long service life in busy kitchens
Simple, reliable operation
Gravity separation means no motors, no electrical components, and no moving parts to fail.
That translates into consistent performance and lower risk of downtime.
Lower upfront cost
- No power supply required
- Straightforward installation
- Minimal mechanical servicing
- Great value for most kitchens
Manual Stainless Steel Grease Traps We Sell
Below are stainless steel manual grease traps from our range — ideal for commercial kitchens of all sizes.
Featured sizes (quick guide)
- 16L / 5kg – Compact, ideal for lower-output wash stations and small kitchens
- 36L / 9kg – Great middle ground for many cafés and restaurants
- 105L / 20kg – Suited to higher throughput kitchens
- 110L / 26kg – High capacity option for busy commercial sites
Compare Our Stainless Steel Grease Traps
Not sure which size is right for your kitchen? Compare capacities below and choose the correct stainless steel grease trap for your daily output.
| Model | Recommended Covers | Grease Capacity | Flow Rate | Best For | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 Litre | 10–15 Covers | 5kg | 16L/min | Small cafés & low-output kitchens | Buy Here |
| 36 Litre | 50–100 Covers | 9kg | 36L/min | Mid-size venues & pubs | Buy Here |
| 105 Litre | Up to 150 Covers | 20kg | 100L/min | Busy commercial kitchens | Buy Here |
| 110 Litre | 150–200 Covers | 26kg | 110L/min | High-output catering sites | Buy Here |
Give us a call on 0330 055 0049 or email sales@cateringtaps.com for expert grease trap advice!
View Our Grease Trap RangeHow to Choose the Right Size
Sizing is the most important decision. Too small and grease passes through; too large and you overpay.
- Number of sinks served
- Peak flow rate (installers often estimate around ~27 L/min per standard sink)
- Volume of daily food preparation and washing
Installation & Compliance Checklist
- Confirm local water authority expectations for FOG control
- Measure available under-sink space and confirm access for cleaning
- Check pipe connections and flow direction
- Choose a unit with an accessible lid and removable internals (where applicable)
- Set a regular cleaning schedule based on usage
Maintenance & Cleaning
Even the best grease trap will fail if it’s not maintained. Manual stainless steel units are straightforward:
- Open the lid and remove accumulated grease from the surface
- Empty settled solids from the base
- Wipe down internal surfaces and refit the lid securely
Regular cleaning prevents odours, keeps separation efficient and helps protect your drainage system.
Ready to Choose Yours?
For most UK commercial kitchens, stainless steel manual grease traps are the practical choice — durable, reliable and cost-effective. Browse the range and select the right capacity for your setup: