Grease Trap Code Issues in Virginia

Let's break down the requirements and compare them with the grease interceptor language in Virginia Plumbing Code 2021:

Grease Interceptor Language Summary

1. Installation: Must follow manufacturer's instructions.

2. Emergency Floor Drain: Required downstream of the interceptor connection.

3. Specific Connections:

   1. The vertical distance from the sink outlet to the interceptor inlet is ≤ 30 inches.

   2. The total length of waste pipe from the furthest sink outlet to interceptor inlet ≤ 60 inches.

   3. Direct connection for sinks for food utensils, dishes, pots, and pans.

Section 802.1 Summary

1. Indirect Waste Pipe Requirement: Food-handling equipment and related sinks must discharge through an indirect waste pipe.

2. Specific Fixtures:

   1. Food Handling Equipment: Discharge through an indirect waste pipe with an air gap.

   2. Food Utensils, Dishes, Pots, and Pans Sinks: Indirect discharge through an air gap or air break.

Comparison and Contradictions

1. Direct vs. Indirect Connection:

   1. Grease Interceptor: Requires a direct connection for sinks used for washing food utensils, dishes, and pots and pans.

   2. Section 802.1: Requires an indirect connection with an air gap or air break for the same types of sinks.

2. Emergency Floor Drain:

   1. Grease Interceptor: Requires an emergency floor drain downstream of the interceptor.

   2. Section 802.1: Does not explicitly mention emergency floor drains.

3. Compliance with Air Gap/Air Break:

   1. Grease Interceptor: No mention of air gaps or air breaks.

   2. Section 802.1: Specifically requires air gaps or air breaks for indirect connections to the drainage system.

Potential Conflicts

• Direct vs. Indirect Connection: The grease interceptor language requires direct connection, which contradicts the requirement in Section 802.1.7 for sinks to discharge indirectly through an air gap or air break.

• Air Gap/Air Break Requirement: The grease interceptor section does not address air gaps or air breaks, while Section 802.1 mandates them.

Resolution Approach

• Consult with local code authorities.
  

• Verify if there are any amendments or exceptions specific to the local jurisdiction that might resolve these conflicts.

• Request the AHJ to give official direction for your project (and ideally publish their recommendations for compliance on their website).