Q: I use a liquid (or a liquid drip system). How is your product different or better?
A: The Bio-Snake Block (BSB) is a solid block that works 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Liquids, or a system that dispenses a liquid enzyme product, do not stay in the trap for long. (This is called “residence time.) A liquid gets washed out of the trap before it has a chance to be effective. In addition, since the bacteria do not stay in the trap for long, they do not have a chance to build up what is called a “bio film” or protective layer of bacteria which help counteract any new oils or grease deposits entering the trap.
The goal of an effective Grease Trap Maintenance Program is to build up such a film and allow the bacteria sufficient residence time in the trap. Once this is achieved the bacteria will begin to work “downstream” (that is to say in the pipes leading from the trap to the main city water pipes) consuming the grease and fats as they go. Liquids aren’t as effective because they don’t have the ability to multiply like a block. This is extremely important as this is what the city and EPA are watching, if those pipes are clogged due to grease from your restaurant, you can be held financially responsible for the repair or replacement of the pipes!
Q: How does the cost compare to liquids?
A: There truly is no comparison. Liquids are an inexact application. If your user does not know exactly how much to put in, they may believe that more is better. Our Bio-Snake Block, is pre-measured. No guessing. No waste. No doubt it’s working!
Q: How does it work? What happens to the grease?
A: The bacteria multiply and digest the grease They break it down into carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). It is environmentally safe, non-toxic and all natural. Good for the environment and good for your bottom-line!
The bacteria spores in the Bio-Snake Blocks are similar to seeds. They will remain dormant until they are introduced to water and organic maters. Unlike seeds, spores can return to a dormant state if the water and organic matter run out. This is unlikely to happen in a grease trap.
Bacteria then release specific enzymes to breakdown the organic material in the grease trap. Then the bacteria metabolize the enzymatic byproduct into CO2 and H2O. This process is similar to how the human stomach breaks down food into the useful components our body can use for energy. It is very important to note that the Bio-Snake blocks do NOT emulsify the grease as enzyme only products do. Our bacteria target the organic material in a natural manner and eliminate the grease by converting it to CO2 and H2O
Q: I pour other cleaning chemicals down the drain—will that affect the bacteria?
A: Yes and no. Harsh chemicals and other toxins that are poured down the drain will kill most of the bacteria found in the water. The bacteria making up the “bio film” on the walls of the trap will remain intact and unharmed. In addition, since the BSB is in solid form, the block will be unharmed by such chemicals. Once the water clears the hazardous chemicals, additional healthy bacteria will be released and continue the work. This isn’t the case with a liquid product. All bacteria are killed until the next application. It is recommended to try and avoid this practice if possible.
Q: Do I really need something for my trap?
A: Yes! Bacteria have proven to be the most effective, least expensive way of handling grease trap issues. With federal and local governments monitoring and fining non-compliant establishments it is better to be safe than sorry. Having a Grease Trap Maintenance Program in place and making the BSB part of that solution helps to avoid a possible run in with the EPA and face fines and possible closure.
Q: What is the optimum operating pH for the Bio-Snake Blocks?
A: 4 – 7
Q: What is the optimum temperature range for the Bio-Snake Blocks?
A: 80°F – 130°F
Although the block will perform in temperatures ranging from 35°F – 150°F, the optimum temperature range is 75°F – 130°F.
Q: Will the Bio-Snake block help me reduce my grease trap / plumbing maintenance costs?
A: Yes! What many users have found is that they have reduced their emergency plumbing calls as well as their general maintenance expenses. The BSB will not eliminate the need for pumping, but it will reduce the volume of grease that is pumped out and it will reduce the frequency of pumping. Typically, pumpings can be reduced 2-3 times.
*information provided by Fresh Products LLC / Bio-Snake 101
If you have additional questions please contact us.