Keep FOGs Out of Drains: How Grease Separator Alarms Are Transforming Waste Management

In the food production and hospitality sectors, managing waste responsibly isn’t just about compliance — it’s about efficiency, reputation, and sustainability. One of the most pressing issues faced by commercial kitchens and food facilities is the improper disposal of FOGs (fats, oils, and grease) into drainage systems. Left unchecked, these substances can cause significant damage, both operationally and environmentally.

The Fatberg Problem

FOGs solidify as they cool, sticking to pipework and contributing to the formation of “fatbergs”; those infamous, rock-like blockages that can weigh several tonnes and cost local authorities millions to remove. Not only are fatbergs a major environmental hazard, but they also risk backing up wastewater systems, creating operational disruptions and severe hygiene concerns for businesses.

One of the biggest fatbergs found was in Whitechapel, London. It was twice the length of two Wembley football pitches, weighed the same as 11 double-decker buses, and took a team of eight, working every day for several weeks, to break it down.

Why Prevention Is Better Than a Cure

The most effective way to tackle FOG-related issues is to prevent them from entering the drainage system in the first place. This is where grease separators (also known as grease traps) come into play. They capture grease before it reaches the pipes — but only if they’re monitored and maintained properly.

When grease separators become full or are not functioning correctly, FOGs can still escape into the drainage system, cancelling out their purpose. Regular manual checks are time-consuming and easy to overlook.

Smart technology to the rescue

This is where smart technology steps in to make a real difference.

Innovation From Aquasentry: Smart, Affordable, Effective

Aquasentry, a division of the Darcy Group, has brought to market a game-changing solution in the form of low-cost, easy-to-install grease separator alarms. These devices alert site managers the moment grease levels approach capacity, helping ensure separators are serviced at the right time — before problems occur.

Thanks to our innovative approach, there’s no longer any need for complex installations or expensive monitoring systems. Our compact alarms are designed for straightforward integration with existing grease separators, making them ideal for restaurants, food factories, and any premises dealing with high volumes of food waste.

We have recently developed new battery-powered grease separator alarms, which are now available to order. Battery-powered units do not require any electrical works to be completed, and the location of your grease separator tank compared to your mains supply is no longer an issue. This reduces installation costs even further.

Key Benefits of Grease Separator Alarms

• Prevent costly blockages
  Stop FOGs from entering drains and avoid costly callouts and emergency pipework repairs.

• Reduce waste management costs
  Timely maintenance means fewer emergency interventions and more efficient waste disposal scheduling. How much money are you spending on emptying your grease separator before it’s necessary?

• Maintain hygiene and odour control
  Properly functioning grease separators reduce foul smells and bacterial build-up in kitchens and food production areas.

• Environmental compliance
  Stay aligned with environmental regulations and contribute to a more sustainable waste system.

• A small investment with a big impact
  With grease separator alarms now more accessible than ever, there’s no reason not to take advantage of this smart technology. Aquasentry’s reliable, budget-friendly solutions help ensure peace of mind, giving facilities teams and business owners the confidence that their drainage systems are protected.

Protect Your Drains, Protect Your Business

Discover how Aquasentry’s grease separator alarms can help you take control of FOG management efficiently and affordably.

Get in touch today to enquire.