Everything You Need to Know About Drain Interceptors
Are you interested in learning more about drain interceptors? In this article, we will cover a complete overview and explore what drain interceptors are, who needs them, why they’re needed, how they work and everything else you need to know.
What is a Drain Interceptor?
A drain interceptor is a device that’s used in different commercial and industrial sites to capture contaminants and separate them from the water before entering the drainage system. Drain interceptors are required where contaminants such as oil, grease and petrol commonly enter drains and need to be separated to avoid contaminating water sources like the sea, lakes and streams. Let’s explore further where drain interceptors are required, why you may need one, how they work and more.
Where are Drain Interceptors Required?
Interceptors are a requirement where contamination will likely occur without one, such as industrial estates, car parks, hospitals, lorry parks, car washes, pubs and more. For example, a car spills oil within a car park and later on that day it starts to rain. The oil and rainwater will then enter the drain together but then they will be separated by the interceptor as it traps the oil. The wastewater will then run through the drainage system separately and the interceptor will hold the contaminant until it’s emptied.
Why are Drain Interceptors Needed?
Drain interceptors are needed as they capture oils, grease, chemicals and petrol that enter the drainage system. If there was no interceptor in place, water would be contaminated which may harm humans, animals and the environment. Interceptors are also needed when contaminated water cannot be effectively treated at sewage treatment works or when it may cause other issues at the sewage treatment plants such as blockages.
How do Drainage Interceptors Work?
Drain interceptors work with either tanks or chambers which will store and separate contaminants with two methods. Solid contaminants which may enter the drain will sink to the bottom whereas lighter contaminants such as oil, grease or petrol will float to the top of the water as their density is lower. A pipe in the tank or chamber then allows the water to flow into the second chamber without the contaminants. This is typically repeated more than once with either two or three-stage interceptors. The wastewater can then exit to arrive at its designated sewer system.
What are the Consequences of Not Emptying a Drain Interceptor?
If your drain interceptor isn’t emptied at the recommended frequency, once the capacity becomes full it won’t work effectively in separating the contaminants from the water. There are various issues that you will face if you fail to empty it. Firstly, the drain will become blocked up and clogged which would result in costly repairs and disrupt your site, alongside a foul odour which will follow.
If the interceptor isn’t working correctly because it hasn’t been emptied, it will fail to separate contaminants effectively. This will likely contaminate water sources which may harm people, animals and the environment. Not only that, but you may face serious legal issues if you fail to comply with the obligations required. These consequences can be an unlimited fine or face up to 5 years in prison, or even both.
Due to the seriousness of failing to comply with your legal obligations when it comes to emptying the drain interceptor, it makes sense to use a local drainage company that has experience in drain interceptors. The consequences of site disruption, costly repairs, and facing legal trouble, including imprisonment and fines, make this an important task which should be dealt with correctly.
How Can Trent’s Drains Help?
Trent’s Drains provides drain interceptor installation and maintenance so that your business complies with environmental regulations to avoid legal trouble and environmental contamination. For more information, you can contact us at 0117 949 0155 and speak with our specialists who can answer any queries you may have and provide you with a free, no-obligation quote for either drain interceptor installation or maintenance.
