Choosing the right grease interceptor for a three-compartment sink is essential for effective wastewater management in commercial kitchens. This guide highlights five top options, focusing on capacity, durability, installation ease, and compliance. Each item is framed to help facility managers, restaurateurs, and plumbing pros compare performance and value. Read on to understand how these interceptors handle kitchen oils, greases, and solids while fitting under sinks and in limited spaces.
Summary table of selected products:
- Beseder Commercial Grease Interceptor Trap 20 lb — 10 GPM, under-sink, plastic walls
- Zurn GT2701-20-3NH Lo-Profile Steel Grease Interceptor — 20 GPM, under-sink, steel
- MEIWAIZX Commercial Grease Interceptor — 50 GPM, three-filter zones, carbon steel with coating
- Wentworth WP-GT-35 (70 lb) — 35 GPM, heavy-duty carbon steel, under-sink
- Zurn GT2700-35-3NH — 35 GPM, steel, corrosion-resistant with odor control
Beseder Commercial Grease Interceptor Trap — Under Sink 10 GPM
The Beseder grease interceptor is designed for under-sink installation with a compact footprint that suits 3-compartment sink configurations in cafes or small restaurants. It features thick 1/4″ plastic walls that resist rust and corrosion, ensuring longevity in harsh kitchen environments. At 19.3 by 17.3 by 16.1 inches, it fits beneath most sinks while providing a practical 10 GPM flow rate for steady wastewater processing. Its multi-stage cleaning system targets mineral, animal, vegetable, and emulsified oils, helping reduce clogs and odors in the drain line.
Key considerations: plastic construction prevents rust in damp kitchens, but users should confirm compatibility with local codes. The unit’s weight and dimensions support straightforward under-sink placement. Routine maintenance, including cleaning the multistage system, keeps performance consistent. This model is well-suited for smaller kitchens with moderate grease loads and limited space.
Zurn GT2701-20-3NH Lo-Profile Steel Grease Interceptor
This lo-profile steel interceptor from Zurn is designed for tight spaces under the sink, offering 20 GPM capacity and a compact footprint. The durable steel construction is designed to withstand demanding kitchen environments where heavy use is common. The unit is aimed at restaurants and food preparation areas where grease removal from wastewater is critical, providing reliable performance while fitting into restricted spaces.
Considerations include installation location and access for servicing. The steel body provides robust protection against corrosion when paired with appropriate coatings and regular maintenance. This interceptor is a solid choice for kitchens that require higher flow but limited installation depth, balancing capacity with space constraints.
MEIWAIZX Commercial Grease Interceptor — 50 GPM
The MEIWAIZX interceptor emphasizes fractional filtration, dividing the interior into three filter zones to enhance solids and grease separation before discharge. Constructed from coated carbon steel, it combines durability with easier cleaning, and a surface coating adds resistance to wear and corrosion. The unit is designed for larger commercial kitchens, supporting a substantial 50 LBS capacity and 50 GPM flow, which helps sustain high-volume operations.
User notes include the need for separate components like inlet and outlet pipes for full assembly. The product is well-suited for kitchens with heavy grease loads and longer wastewater run lengths, where consistent separation is essential to protect downstream plumbing and pretreatment systems.
Wentworth WP-GT-35 — 70 Pound Grease Trap
The Wentworth WP-GT-35 is a heavy-duty option rated at 35 GPM, designed for larger or busier kitchens. It employs a substantial 11-gauge carbon steel body with an anti-corrosion powder coating, delivering long-term protection in demanding conditions. Its dimensions (approximately 30.5 inches long, 17.9 inches wide, 19.3 inches high) accommodate under-sink installations in environments with ample space, making it a feasible upgrade for medium-to-large operations that require greater grease handling capacity.
Prospective buyers should assess available under-sink clearance and the need for professional installation due to the larger footprint. The combination of robust construction and high flow rate makes this model suitable for high-volume restaurants and facilities with significant grease generation, ensuring reliable performance over time.
Zurn GT2700-35-3NH — 35 GPM, 3 Inch No-Hub Connection
This Zurn model emphasizes durability with a Dura-coated fabricated steel construction designed to resist corrosion in high-demand kitchens. It includes a secure, slip-resistant cover and a center tie-down to help prevent odors from escaping, which is important in maintaining a clean and compliant kitchen environment. The 3-inch no-hub connections and 35 GPM capacity align with mid-to-large restaurant needs where robust grease separation is vital.
Key considerations include ensuring compatibility with existing drainage piping and confirming local code requirements for no-hub connections. The combination of corrosion-resistant coating and odor-control features positions this interceptor as a strong option for busy kitchens seeking reliable, long-term performance and easier maintenance.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations For Grease Interceptors
- Flow rate and capacity: Match the unit’s GPM rating to your kitchen’s grease load and wastewater volume. Higher capacity helps during peak hours but requires more space and proper venting.
- Material and durability: Plastic walls resist rust; carbon steel with coatings offers rugged durability. Consider local water chemistry and cleaning routines when selecting materials.
- Footprint and installation space: Under-sink installations vary; verify dimensions and accessibility for cleaning and servicing. Lo-profile designs are ideal for tight areas.
- Filtration stages and maintenance: Multi-stage or fractional filtration improves grease separation and reduces clogs. Plan for routine cleaning intervals and replacement of internal baffles or screens.
- Installation and compatibility: Check inlet/outlet sizes, piping connections (NPT or no-hub), and whether a professional plumber is needed for proper seal and venting.
- Code compliance and environmental factors: Ensure the unit meets local codes for grease interceptors, drainage, and odor control. Consider units with non-corrosive coatings for longevity.
- Maintenance impact: Larger interceptors require greater maintenance effort but may reduce downstream clogging and sewer backups, especially in high-volume kitchens.
- Cost versus lifecycle value: Initial cost is important, but evaluate expected service life, maintenance costs, and potential downtime in busy operations.
In practice, the best choice often balances capacity and space. For smaller cafes or compact kitchens, a 10 GPM or 20 GPM unit with a compact footprint can meet daily needs while simplifying installation. For larger establishments with heavy grease production, a 35–50 GPM model with robust materials and odor control features provides reliable long-term performance. Consider mixing a high-capacity interceptor with modular filtration to optimize efficiency, while ensuring compliance with regional plumbing codes.