Does a New Brunswick home kitchen with a garbage disposal require a grease trap, and what does one cost to install in Miramichi?

Residential kitchens in New Brunswick do not require grease traps, even with garbage disposals. Grease traps are only mandated for commercial food service establishments under the New Brunswick Plumbing Code.

However, installing a grease trap in your Miramichi kitchen can prevent costly plumbing problems caused by fats, oils, and grease (FOG) buildup in your home's drain lines. Many NB homeowners, especially those who cook frequently or have garbage disposals, choose to install small residential grease interceptors as preventive maintenance.

Residential grease trap options range from simple under-sink units ($150-$400) to larger outdoor interceptors ($800-$2,000). Under-sink models are most common for Miramichi homes — they install between your kitchen sink drain and the main waste line. These compact units capture grease before it enters your plumbing system, requiring cleaning every 2-4 weeks depending on cooking habits.

Installation costs in Miramichi typically run $300-$800 for an under-sink grease trap, including the unit and plumber's labour. The total depends on your existing plumbing configuration and accessibility. If your kitchen drain line needs modification or the installation requires crawling under a cramped house (common in older Miramichi homes), expect costs toward the higher end.

Why consider a grease trap in NB? Our Maritime climate means many homes rely on septic systems rather than municipal sewer connections. Grease buildup can clog septic systems and require expensive pumping or repairs ($500-$2,000). Even homes connected to municipal sewer can experience drain blockages from accumulated FOG, especially in older cast iron or galvanized pipes common in Miramichi's housing stock.

Garbage disposals and grease concerns are particularly relevant because grinding food waste doesn't eliminate grease — it just sends smaller particles down the drain where they can still accumulate. Foods like bacon grease, butter, and cooking oils solidify in pipes, creating stubborn blockages.

Practical alternatives include wiping greasy pans with paper towels before washing, collecting cooking oil in containers for disposal, and running hot water during and after dishwashing to help flush any remaining grease through the system.

When to hire a professional: Any grease trap installation requires connecting to your drain line, which should be done by a licensed plumber to ensure proper slope, venting, and code compliance. DIY installation risks improper drainage that could cause backups or odors.

Need help finding a qualified plumber for grease trap installation? New Brunswick Kitchens can connect you with local professionals through the New Brunswick Construction Network for free estimates on your Miramichi kitchen project.