Abstract:
A commercial and institutional kitchen retrofit system for 1. the automatic daily cleaning of commercial kitchen exhaust hoods and flues, 2. a low pressure, low volume, recirculating cleaning system designed for the removal of oily residue from hard surfaces and the accelerated bioremediation of the resulting collective hydrocarbon waste, 3. the collection and elimination of roof-top grease accumulations, 4. the systematic on site incubation and enhanced propagation of cultured, hydrocarbon specific, bacterial microorganisms in an automatically mixed aqueous solution containing PH neutral oxidizers and hydrocarbon base emulsifiers altogether, producing a regenerative, recyclable cleaning solution specifically developed for use in 5. and the automatic daily introduction of an oxygen enriched, microbe charged solution into kitchen drain lines, thereby reducing the stoppage of drains caused by the solidification of grease and ultimately promoting the biodigestation and reduction of accumulated grease in the main grease trap integral to the sewer system.

Description:
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/678,104 filed Jul. 11, 1996, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,874,292. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     This invention relates to a comprehensive, uniform, retrofit, commercial and institutional kitchen grease removal and bio-remediation system. 
     2. Description of Prior Art 
     In as much as grease residue is a by-product of certain forms of cooking, it is naturally understandable that numerous attempts have been made to address the myriad of problems associated with the accumulation of grease in higher volume commercial kitchens: 
     One area where grease buildup and its removal is most problematic is the exhaust hood, flue, roof surface adjacent to and surrounding the flue, and the kitchen drain lines and grease trap. Grease buildup in these areas is particularly critical in as much as it undermines the sanitary environment of the kitchen, increases the hazard of uncontrollable fires, generates foul odors, promotes insect and rodent infestation and is ultimately the primary cause of sewer stoppage. The generally accepted procedure for dealing with the exhaust hood grease problem is by manual periodic cleaning of the exhaust system when grease accumulations reach unacceptable levels. Grease is removed either manually with scrapers by the kitchen staff or by professional companies using steam and/or power spray washing equipment. In either case, the cleaning is usually done during off hours as it is an incredibly filthy and disruptive process. Handling the waste is a subsequent problem. Invariably, a good portion of the oily effluent ends up in the grease trap via the floor drains. This sudden surge in the volume of grease being discharged into the trap creates additional problems. These will be addressed later. However, the additional volume of greasy sludge shortens the intervals in the pumping (emptying) schedule for the grease trap and increases the frequency of clogged waste lines. The balance of the residue, if properly collected and contained must be disposed of, which, even in the best case scenario remains waste that is hazardous to the environment. An additional problem associated with manual or high pressure cleaning is the increased risk of possible inadvertent contamination of foodstuffs, utensils, and food prep surface areas resulting from failure to contain contaminates being carried in high volumes of water, airborne under pressure. 
     To avoid the many complications associated with this unpleasant manual procedure, various attempts have been made to devise automatic or self-cleaning hoods, which utilize permanent or removable tortuous air path baffle filters of various designs to catch the grease for removal by water spray. These vent hood systems are expensive and, regardless of their effectiveness, do nothing for the existing facility that cannot justify the complete replacement of a sound, fully functioning, conventional exhaust hood. Other pipe systems utilize fixed or rotating nozzle apparatuses extending along the axis of the exhaust duct (flue) and rely on the impingement of water spray under high pressure to remove grease buildup. Yet other systems are designed with elaborate pipe spray manifolds on wheels that are raised and lowered through the exhaust duct by pulleys and cables and provide coverage to the inside surface of the duct at terrific pressure. The intent is obviously to remove thick encrusted grease and sludge. That these systems utilize a relatively high volume of water in their operation is undeniable. One system in particular uses hot water in the cleaning process. Couple the cost of the water with the energy cost of heating it and it would only seem prudent to activate the system as infrequently as possible. A protracted cleaning schedule allows the daily accumulation of grease to build into the encrusted sludge these systems are obviously designed to address. Furthermore, the infrequent cleaning cycle and high volume of water produces the same waste disposal problems to contend with as the manual method previously discussed. 
     As with the self-cleaning hoods, it is apparent that these mechanical spray systems would most likely operate at optimum levels when installed in an exhaust duct tailored to be specifically compatible with the washing fixture. Otherwise, the washing fixture would have to be custom designed for each individual duct size and configuration. There seems to be a limitation in their utility in retrofit installations as universality is not apparent. 
     A search of prior art reveals several power spray washing systems for use inside confined areas such as tanks, pipes and exhaust systems. However, no system is found that provides thorough coverage of solution to adjacent surfaces at pressures less than 20 PSI and volumes as little as one-third gallon per minute. Additionally, no system was discovered that could be installed easily in retrofit and function universally well in a broad array of enclosure configurations having varying dimensions. 
     Regardless of the effectiveness of the various exhaust system washing devices, they commonly have no impact whatsoever on the grease that collects in and on the inside and outside surfaces of the exhaust fan unit typically mounted at the top of the flue. These grease accumulations generally drain downward from the exhaust fan and pool on the surface of the roof. This condition is undesirable in that, in addition to the obvious fire hazard, it sustains and promotes foul odors and ultimately undermines the integrity of most roofing systems. Hydrocarbons dissolve asphaltic roofing compounds and dramatically shorten roof life. The aspect of preparing or replacing a costly 10-year roofing system in 2 to 5 years is a sobering consideration indeed. 
     As with the exhaust washing systems, there are most certainly various prior art attempts at a solution to this problem. The exhaust fans have been fitted with collection buckets located below drainage holes drilled in the low point of the fan shroud. The grease that collects in the fan shroud drains through the hole and collects in the bucket below. These buckets require emptying on a regular basis or the grease overflows right back on the roof. Also, this approach does nothing to stop grease from flowing out between the base of the exhaust fan and the top of the flue to join the other grease accumulated on the outside of the fan itself on its downward flow to the roof. 
     Another prior art solution is to mount a gutter on the outside of the exhaust fan base skirt, which collects a portion of the grease in an integral box mounted on the gutter which is designed to separate grease and rainwater. Like the bucket solution, the collector box must be emptied manually or the grease overflows back onto the roof. Due to broad tolerances being acceptable in building practice, many exhaust flues are built to the exact size of the fan base, or out of square. Either situation leaves little or no free space between exhaust fan base skirts and flue housings for additional flashing components. For this reason, the gutter was designed to mount on the outside of the fan base skirt. Like other collectors, this design does not address the grease that flows outward between the top of the flue and the base of the exhaust fan. 
     Yet another attempt at addressing the problem has been to build a sand box on the roof surface surrounding the exhaust flue housing to collect the grease prior to its coming into contact with the roof. The ramifications of taking this approach are obvious in that oil and grease are lighter than water, therefore rain floats the grease out on the roof. 
     A more sophisticated prior art version of the sand box approach comprises an aluminum frame which lays on the roof surface and surrounds the flue housing containing a disposable fiber mesh trap type filter element which is intended to collect and retain the grease to the point of saturation and then be replaced. It would seem that a fiber filter saturated with flammable grease could be considered to have the properties of a wick waiting to be fired. This approach proves to be costly in as much as the filter elements and labor to replace them are not inexpensive. 
     The effectiveness of all prior art attempts reviewed that deal with the collection of grease is contingent on the timely emptying of the receptacle when full. Other than focusing primarily on keeping grease off the roof to some degree, these systems do little to address the other problems associated with rooftop grease including but not limited to fire hazards, rodent and insect infestation, foul odors associated with putrefying grease, and ultimately the final disposition of the grease itself. 
     Numerous prior art examples have been found that trap and treat grease with enzymes and/or bacterial spores. No doubt, various systems are effective to some extent in reducing the discharged volume of grease deposited in them. 
     Some prior art deals with the manual introduction of microbes into the sewer drain lines and grease traps of commercial kitchens. More specifically, floor drain covers are repaired to preclude foreign matter from entering the drain lines and microbes are introduced. However, this is a manual process which is obviously done on a periodic schedule. In as much as it is difficult to eliminate the use of cleaners and other chemicals including but not limited to chlorine, which is toxic to microbial life, in the day-to-day operation of a food service facility, the effectiveness of infrequent treatment is easily undermined. The only possible way of assuring enhanced bioremediation is through the daily metered injection of fresh, healthy hydrocarbon-specific microorganisms into the primary floor drain lines and grease trap. No known system exists specifically designed for this purpose. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     None of the prior art grease trap devices, being primarily of singular purpose in their design, offer an intentional multiplicity of functions beginning with A. A controlled environment designed specifically for the enhanced and sustained on-site (point of use) propagation of cultured hydrocarbon specific microflora. B. Capable of cycling large volumes of rainwater through the system without purging or flushing the high or low gravity liquid out of the system. C. Support an integral systematic recirculating pressure cleaning apparatus. Nor has any device been discovered that in addition to collectively integrating and providing all the systematic functions listed in A, B and C, also D. Acts as a cleaning solution reclaimer, rejuvenator and recycler and E. Systematically inoculates the sewer drain lines and primary grease trap automatically on a timed daily basis from a never ending perpetual supply of on-site propagated hydrocarbon-specific microorganisms to ultimately reduce the total volume of grease waste accumulated from cooking operations that is discharged into the sewer system. In as much as microbiological treatment of hydrocarbon waste has proven to be advantageous it has also been established that microorganic life itself is vulnerable to a broad spectrum of toxic chemicals and less than ideal environmental conditions. For this reason, the accepted practice for the food service industry is to manually charge grease traps and/or drain lines monthly to re-establish microbe colonies being killed daily by toxic chemicals being discharged into the grease traps via the sewer system usually stemming from mopping, dish-washing and other cleaning operations. The standard procedure involves culturing hydrocarbon specific microorganisms in a laboratory and then bringing the culture to the point of use for manual introduction into the target system, thereby replenishing the microflora periodically. However, microbes are quite prolific given an ideal environment conducive to enhanced propagation. Therefore, an on-site system that by design cannot be purged by large volumes of flowing water, is not subjected to contaminates by being located in line with sewer waste water and is climatically stable seems needed and at this point unavailable. 
     The object of this invention deals with a comprehensive process for the timed systematic collection and bioremediation of kitchen grease that begins with the retrofit installation in a commercial kitchen of an integrated system of technology that includes: 
     a. A bio-reactive fluid reclaim unit comprised of a series of tanks, pumps, filters, timer, solenoid valves, float valves, contactors, heat elements, T-stats and the necessary wiring harnesses and fluid connectors to facilitate its operation. 
     b. A universally adaptable low volume, low pressure spray boom assembly, comprising a piping system and rotary spray nozzles designed to operate at pressures of 20 PSI or less and volumes as low as one third gallon per minute. 
     c. A baffle system, for universal retrofit installation in commercial kitchen exhaust hoods that, in addition to allowing free air passage and collecting the fall back grease as traditional baffles do, also prohibits the passage of aqueous splatter as might result from the cleaning cycle. 
     d. A fluid return sump assembly, and optional universal hood gutter, to collect washing fluid and hydrolyzed grease residue resultant of a cleaning process. 
     e. An automatic fluid return sump assembly, and related piping system to return the washing fluid and hydrolyzed grease residue to the Bio-reactive fluid reclaim unit. 
     f. A makeup solution injector reservoir, containing a microbe reserve and supply of PH neutral surfactant/disbursant/oxidizing solution for timed and metered daily injection into the system via the fluid return sump assembly. 
     g. A fluid collector manifold/fan mount adaptor, that mounts on top of the flue above the roof line between the flue and the base of the exhaust fan. 
     h. A drain line, connecting the gutter/ manifold to the circulation/bioremediation unit. 
     i. A drain line, connecting the bio-reactive, fluid reclaim unit to the nearest plumbing waste vent or vents common to the kitchen floor drain system. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 is an elevational view of the system incorporating the present invention. 
     FIG. 2 is a top view of the bioremediation unit. 
     FIG. 3 is an elevational view of the bioremediation unit. 
     FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the fluid collector/fan mount adaptor. 
     FIG. 5 is an elevational view of the fluid return sump assembly. 
     FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the rotary spray nozzle. 
     FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the bearing for the rotary spray nozzle. 
     FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the baffle filter system. 
     FIG. 9 is an elevational view of vent hood, fluid return sump assembly and make up solution injector reservoir. 
     FIG. 10 is an elevational view similar to FIG. 1 but showing components of the control/monitoring system. 
     FIG. 11 is a flow diagram pertaining to the control/monitoring system. 
     FIG. 12 is an elevational view of the control/monitoring system control pad. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The complete bio-mechanical system is generally comprised of eleven major interrelated (integral) components including: A. a bio-reactive fluid reclaim unit  200 , FIG. 1,  2 , and  3 , B. a fluid collector/fan mount adaptor manifold  36 , FIG. 4, C. a universal low volume/low pressure spray boom assembly  23 , FIG. 1, D. low volume rotary spray nozzles  24 , FIGS. 1,  4  and  6 , utilizing E. self-centering thrust-bearing  26 , FIGS. 6 and 7, F. mist-blocking baffle filter system  600 , FIGS. 1,  8  and  9 , G. universal hood gutter system  700 , FIGS. 1 and 9, H. a fluid return sump assembly  28 , FIGS. 1,  5  and  9 , I. a makeup solution injector reservoir  40 , FIGS. 1 and 9, J. a wash fluid return-piping system  32 , FIGS. 1,  5  and  9 , K. and a bioremediation fluid discharge line  38 , FIG.  1 . 
     More specifically, bio-reactive fluid reclaim unit  200 , as depicted in top view, FIG.  2  and end view FIG. 3 (electric control box omitted from FIG. 3 for clarity) is comprised of: 
     A common base plate  201  which serves as a mounting surface for circulation chamber or tank  202 , receiver chamber or tank  203 , discharge chamber or tank  204 , electrical component control box  205 , the main system pressure pump  226 , fluid reclaim cycle suction solenoid valve  230 , optional heat kit fan unit  199 , and the primary common support and bottom attachment point for side cover panels  291 ,  292 ,  293 , and  294 . 
     Circulation tank or chamber  202  is fitted with fluid equalization port  212  common to receiver tank  203 . Circulating tank  202  is also fitted with a first directional fluid flow discharge fitting  210 , centrifuge fluid flow stratifier  208 , cleaning cycle suction port  216 , grease transfer wier or channel  206   a  common to discharge tank  204 , a heat element receptacle  207   a , a heat element  262   a  (to prevent freezing), and an air line inlet port (grommet)  266   a.    
     Receiver tank or chamber  203  is likewise fitted with fluid equalization port  212  common to Circulation tank  202 , the main system inlet port  213 , a second directional fluid flow discharge fitting  211 , centrifuge fluid flow stratifier  209 , timed equalization port  218 , grease transfer weir  206   b  common to discharge tank  204 , a heat element receptacle  207   b , a heat element  262   b , and an air line inlet port (grommet)  266   b.    
     Discharge tank or chamber  204  is fitted with 2 grease transfer weirs  206   a  and  206   b  common to tanks  202  and  203  respectively, fluid reclaim cycle suction port  215 , timed equalization port  217 , fluid agitation inlet port  219 , spindown filter sediment discharge port  220 , a heat element receptacle  207   c , a heat element  262   c , a thermostat mounting bracket  264 , an airline inlet port (grommet)  266   c , and the main system bio-remediation fluid discharge port  214 . 
     Electrical component control box  205  is configured to accept wiring grommets  275 ,  276 ,  277 ,  278 , and  280  respectively to facilitate installation of heat element, solenoid valve, pressure pump, air pump, and low voltage contactor wiring. Control box  205  internally houses control wiring distribution terminal block  272 , a 24 hr. timer  273 , a sub-process timer  274 , and optional “fan kit” component/low-voltage transformer  279 , heat element contactor  263   c  and optional heat kit fan contactor  285   b . The exterior of control box  205  serves as a mounting surface for air-pump  265 , air valve manifold  269 , sediment discharge solenoid valve  254 , wafer bi-metal snap disk thermostat  285   c  to control optional heat kit  285 , spin down filter mounting bracket  221 , main power inlet  270 , and corresponding main power disconnect  271 . 
     Other components in bio-reactive fluid reclaim unit  200  include those relative to fluid flow beginning with primary suction line  227   a  connecting main system pump  226  by way of vertical fluid reclaim cycle suction line “T”  228  to two separate fluid reservoirs, tank  202  and tank  204 . Vertical fluid reclaim cycle suction line  229  connects fluid reclaim cycle suction solenoid control valve  230  to fluid reclaim cycle suction line  231  which terminates at tank  204  fluid reclaim cycle suction port  215 . 
     Secondary suction line  227  connects suction line “T”  228  to cleaning cycle suction solenoid control valve  232  which transitions vertically to cleaning cycle suction line assembly  233   a,    b  and  c , terminating at tank  202 , cleaning cycle suction port  216 , which extends within tank  202  by way of suction strainer tube  257  to ultimately connect the cleaning cycle suction line to a bleed filtration system assembly  258  located in the center of circulation tank  202 , comprised of a suction strainer center tube receptacle  258   a , a perforated stainless steel suction strainer center tube  258   b , extending vertically in the center area of a mesh suction strainer filter housing  258   c  containing bulk polyester fiber filter media  258   d.    
     Pressure and flow developed by main system pump  226  is produced through two separate ports. The first, located on the top of main system pump  226 , is fitted with fluid reclaim cycle pressure solenoid valve  234  which connects to fluid reclaim cycle flow valve  235 . A ¾″ nipple  235   a  connects flow valve  235  to fluid reclaim cycle pressure line assembly  236  which is comprised of a 90° FNPT “L”  236   a , a short pipe nipple in the vertical position  236   b , a FNPT HB INSERT 90° “L”  236   c , a preformed hose  236   d , a hose insert “T”  236   e , and termination hose  236   f  terminating in connection to first directional fluid flow discharge fitting  210 , and termination hose  236   g  terminating in connection to second directional fluid flow discharge fitting  211 . 
     The second and main pressure port is located on the side of main system pump  226  opposite the suction port and is fitted with cleaning cycle pressure solenoid control valve  242  which connects to cleaning cycle internal pressure line assembly  243  comprised of FNPT/Insert 90° “L”  243   a  first internal pressure hose  243   b , fluid agitation insert “T”  243   c  (see next par), second internal pressure hose  243   d , which connects to 90° spin down filter intake fitting  208  which, in passing through spin down filter mounting grommet  249   a , both supports and pressurizes spin down filter  250  at its inlet. Straight spin-down filter discharge fitting  251  passing through spin-down filter mounting grommet  249   b  supports the spin-down filter at its discharge side and connects to and pressurizes exterior pressure line  21  (FIGS. 1 and 4) which passes through a grommet at the top of right side back cover  294  and out of the unit to pressurize the spray boom assembly  23 . 
     Fluid agitation insert “T”  243 -C diverts excess pressure from cleaning cycle internal pressure line assembly  243  through fluid agitation flow valve  245  (approximately 4 gpm), which connects to fluid agitation pressure line assembly  246  comprised of MNPT insert 90° “L”  246   a  and fluid agitation hose  246   b , terminating with attachment to fluid agitation inlet port  219  and a fan spray nozzle (not shown) in tank  204 . A perforated plate (not shown) with one-sixteenth inch diameter holes may be placed mid-level and horizontaly across tank  204  to bi-sect tank  204  such that only the region above the perforated plate will be subjected to the agitation or turbulence caused by the fan spray. 
     The time-controlled equalization of fluid levels between common tanks  202 ,  203 , and discharge chamber tank  204  is achieved by connecting fluid equalization line  241  to equalization port  217  on the one end and fluid equalization solenoid control valve  239  on the other, then connecting solenoid control valve  239  to timed equalization port  218 , utilizing fluid equalization line  240 . 
     Sediment is flushed automatically from spin-down filter  250  by way of spin-down filter sediment flush assembly  252  comprised of spin-down filter sediment flush fitting  252   a  which is a 90° FNPT/insert fitting attached to the bottom discharge port of the spin-down filter sediment bowl  250   b , facilitating the connection of primary sediment flush line  252   b , which connects to sediment flush solenoid control valve  252   c . Sediment is then carried in flow under pressure upward through sediment flush control valve riser-subassembly  252   d , comprised of a FNPT coupling  252   e , a short pipe nipple  252 - f , and a FNPT/insert 90° “L” fitting  252   g , which connects to secondary sediment flush line  252   h , which terminates in connection with spin-down filter sediment flush discharge port  220  in tank  204 . 
     Compressed air is generated internally by air pump  265  and is injected into each of the three tanks  202 ,  203 ,  204 . Air pump  265  is connected to air valve manifold  269 . It then passes through air line  267   a  to Tank  202 . Air line  267   b  to Tank  203  and air line  267   c  to Tank  204  where it is disbursed in the fluid by submerged air stones  268   a, b  and  c  ( b  and  c  not shown). 
     The bio-reactive/fluid reclaim unit  200  is fully housed (enclosed) by outer cabinet assembly  290 , comprised of electrical component control box front cover  291 , electrical component control box left side cover  292 , left side/front cover  263 , right side back cover  294 , and top cover  296 . All side covers are insulated against temperature extremes with ¾″ styrofoam HDIB (high density insulation board)  298  laminated to the inside surfaces. The top cover supports 1″ styrofoam HDIB  299  laminated to its inside surface which in addition to its insulation properties provides a common top seal for tanks  202 ,  203 , and  204  by compression seal of the inner surface of the HDIB to the top rim of the tanks when fully assembled and secured in place. 
     Electrical component control box  205  being slightly taller than tanks  202 ,  203 , and  204  interfaces with and projects into a corresponding groove in the top cover HDIB inner surface to provide a natural seal against water being introduced into the electrical component control box resulting from inadvertent movement of the unit or failure of certain internal pressure system components. 
     One inch styrofoam HDIB  299  is laminated to the under side of system base plate  201  and, in addition to its insulation properties, provides a suitable surface to be placed in contact with roofing surfaces  1 , evenly distributing the full operating weight of unit  200  over the entire bottom area, eliminating the need for roof penetrations, mounting frames, etc., for most rooftop installations. 
     The outer cabinet assembly is attached and secured by a combination of interlocking sheet metal connections and PEM fasteners (pressed in place nuts)  300  in a manner easily understandable by those skilled in the art. 
     Referring to FIG. 4, fluid collector/fan mount adapter  36  includes, in its unitary section modulous, two distinct shapes, each functionally independent of the other and although joined are referred to separately herein as fluid collector  36   a  and fan mount riser adapter flange  36   b . Fluid collector  36   a  receives fluid from flush nozzle  35 . Flush nozzle  35  receives fluid from return pipe  32 . Fluid collector flush nozzle mounting bracket  36   d  provides a means for rigid attachment of fluid collector flush nozzle  35  at the overall end of and in a downward angle over and directionally in line with the center flow line of fluid collector  36   a . Said configuration results in the recirculating washing solution being discharged under pressure by fluid collector flush nozzle  35  during daily cleaning cycles being directed into the center flow line of fluid collector  36   a  where it flows in a forced counter clockwise rotation throughout fluid collector  36   a , thereby emulsifying, collecting, and transporting daily oil and grease accumulations (grease inside exhaust fan  8  and mounting base  9  will seep down and collect in fluid collector  36   a ) to bio-reactive/fluid reclaim unit  200  by way of collector drain neck  36   c , which provides the means for the attachment of fluid collector drain line  37 , ultimately directing fluid from collector  36   a  to bio-reactive fluid reclaim unit  200 . 
     Integral fan mount riser adapter flange  36   b  provides a 6″ vertical extension wall  36   e  of the exhaust fan  8  mounting base  9 . This feature facilitates the introduction of spray boom supply line  21  and fluid return line  34  through grommet or bulkhead fitting S 22  installed in spray boom supply port  36   f  and fluid return port  36   g , eliminating any need for penetrating the flue  3  or exhaust fan  8  components. 
     Fluid collector/fan mount adapter  36  is constructed of heavy gauge aluminum sheet, providing the rigidity to support moderate to heavy compressive loads when formed. Horizontal mounting leg  36   h  provides sufficient surface area to bear on the top outside rim of exhaust flue structures  3   b  and is intended to be permanently attached, utilizing a continuous generous bead of urethane adhesive/sealant, again eliminating penetrations in flue components. Standard sheet metal overlapping joints are utilized in the assembly of fluid collector/fan mount adapter  36 ; however, tolerances between components, when assembled, is considerable to allow ample free void area for a continuous bed of urethane adhesive sealant utilized both to permanently bond the components and provide a liquid tight sealed condition without soldering, welding, or utilizing penetrating fasteners. 
     The horizontal fan mount flange  36   i , projects outward at a 90° angle from fan mount riser  36   e  to provide a bearing surface for the exhaust fan base  9 . However, the overall projection of  36   i  is ⅛″ less than the inside overall bearing surface of horizontal mounting leg  36   h , assuring an acceptable overall finished dimension slightly smaller than that of the exhaust flue housing  2  that previously supported exhaust fan base  9 . This condition provides the added clearance necessary to facilitate the re-installation of exhaust fan  8  in a hinged connection with top horizontal fan mount flange  36   i . This is accomplished by utilizing one pair of strip hinges,  36 -J, permanently attached to each end of horizontal fan mount flange  36   i  (welded) and subsequently bonded to the underside of exhaust fan base  9 , utilizing a full bed of urethane adhesive/sealant over the entire surface of each hinge leaf and two  8  machine screws, nuts and washers with each hinge. 
     Hinging the exhaust fan allows servicing of the interior of the exhaust flue  3  and related components and the underside of the exhaust fan  10  without totally removing and handling the full weight of the exhaust fan unit  8 . 
     Exhaust fan unit  8  is mechanically supported in the up or open position by a sliding fan support stay  36   k  attached to the top of the exhaust flue  3   b  at the one end and the underside of the exhaust fan base  9  at the other end, utilizing two stainless steel self-drilling screws at the exhaust flue  3   b  connection and two machine screws, nuts, and washers at the base  9  connection. 
     The exhaust fan  8  is secured in the down/operating position by an exhaust fan spring latch mechanism  36   l  attached to the underside of top horizontal fan mount flange  36   l  opposite the hinged side with the vertical downward flange of the exhaust fan base  9  bored to interface with  36   l  as exhaust fan spring latch strike hole  36   m.    
     Low volume spray boom assembly  23 , FIG. 1 and 4, is comprised of an SS braided pressure hose  23   a , which connects one end to spray boom supply line  21  at bulkhead fitting  22  integral with fan mount riser  36   e , and the other end to FNPT 90° “L”  23   c  which transitions the pressure hose to connect vertically with first boom section  23   b  which is the uppermost short section of pipe (galvanized steel) (length varies 6- to 18″) in spray boom assembly  23 . The vertical and center horizontal sections of spray boom assembly  23  are suspended within the exhaust flue  3  by spray boom top support bracket  25   a , which is comprised of a stainless steel clip  25   a  field-formed on one end,  25   b , to a 90° angle to be attached to fan mount riser  36   e  utilizing SS self-drilling screws, leaving sufficient horizontal length (length varies) to allow the clamp end,  25   c  of  25   a  to extend slightly over the inside edge of the top inside vertical surface of exhaust flue  3 . The pipe clamp  25   d  encircles and secures spray boom section  23   b  in the vertical position. 
     First vertical spray boom section  23   b , having a length not greater than twenty four inches (length varies) from the underside of exhaust fan unit  10  extending downward connects to galvanized “T”  23   e  facilitating the installation of a short galvanized nipple  23   f  which mounts and pressurizes rotary spray nozzle  24   a . An additional three foot section of galvanized pipe for second spray boom section  23   g  extends downward from “T”  23   e  and in flues five foot or less will transition directly into the horizontal spray boom  23   i  with connection to horizontal spray boom “T”  23   h , FIG.  1 . In the case of long vertical flues, additional “T”  23   e , nipples  23   f , and spray nozzle  24   a  assemblies may be connected to extend the vertical boom sections  23   b  and  g  as required with spacing of rotary spray nozzles  24  preferrably not exceeding three feet. 
     First horizontal spray boom sections  23   i  and  j , (FIG.  1 ), are galvanized pipe sections connected to horizontal spray boom “T”  23   h  extending in either or opposite directions to connect to and be supported by rotary spray nozzle  24   b , (FIG.  1 ). Rotary spray nozzle  24   b  interlocks with a short stainless steel clip and spray nozzle mounting bracket (not shown buy similar to clip  25   a , FIG. 4) which attaches to the inner top surface  5   a  of the exhaust hood  5 , FIG. 1, and interlocks with an outside snap ring groove  24   d  in rotary spray nozzle housings  24   b  and  24   c  ( 24   b  not shown). Rotary spray nozzle  24   b , having one side hole, is installed at the termination of the horizontal spray boom and serves as an end cap and boom support in addition to being a nozzle. Rotary spray nozzle  24   c , having two side holes, is also utilized as a boom coupling and hanging device. 
     The design of the spray nozzle housing  24   b  and  24   c  when interlocked with spray nozzle mounting bracket (not shown) holds the horizontal spray boom in place both vertically and laterally. The longitudinal axis of the boom assembly is then secured by two cotter pins (not shown) installed in each end of bracket (not shown) on either side of the nozzles. Spray nozzle mounting bracket is attached to the inner surface of the exhaust hood  5 , utilizing one # 8  stainless steel self-drilling screw (not shown) in the center of each bracket. 
     Low volume rotary spray nozzles  24 , appear in three configurations  24   a ,  24   b  and  24   c  ( 24   c  shown in FIG.  6 ), each having a functionally unique nozzle housing constructed of machined or molded NORYL plastic, a free machining, non-flammable synthetic compound produced by G.E. Plastics Division. Nozzle housing  24   a  exhibits one hole threaded FNPT in one end and no outside snap-ring groove. Nozzle Housing  24   b  also exhibits a FNPT threaded hole in one end and one additional side hole along with an outside snap-ring groove  24   d  at one end. Nozzle housing  24   c  exhibits three FNPT holes, one in the end and two additional holes, one in each side, and the same outside snap-ring groove  24   d  at one end. The outside snap-ring groove  24   d  is intended to interface with spray nozzle mounting bracket (not shown) and support the low volume spray boom assembly  23  (see previous section). Otherwise, all features of the three nozzles are identical. Nozzles  24  commonly exhibit a rotor (stainless steel)  24   e , a rotor arm (aluminum)  24   f , low volume spray emitters— 2  each,  24   g  and  24   h , an o-ring gland  24   i  and an o-ring  24   j , an ID snap ring groove  24   k  and an ID snap ring  24   l , a self-centering, thrust-bearing  26 , a bearing seat  24   m , and thrust bearing chamber  24   n , a fluid chamber  240 , and in the case of nozzles  24   b  and  24   c , a MNPT plug  24   p  which seals the end hole subsequent to assembly and insertion of O-ring  24   j  in O-ring gland  24   i . However, the end holes and MNPT plugs in nozzle housings  24   b  and  24   c  are optional and intended only to facilitate the ease of installation of O-ring  24 j, and may be eliminated as a design feature if desired. 
     In assembly, rotor  24   e  is pressed into the center bore of self-centering, thrust-bearing  26  and bears compressive loading under pressure by rotor bearing seat flange,  24   q  being seated against thrust-bearing  26 . Accidental disassembly of rotor  24   e  from thrust-bearing  26  is avoided by mating thrust-bearing detent  24   r  with rotor detent  26   g . Rotor  24   e  in assembly with thrust-bearing  26  is inserted in rotor housing  24  with rotor tail shaft  24   s  extending into fluid chamber  24 O by passing through O-ring  24   j  previously inserted in O-ring gland  24   i . O-ring  24   j  seals thrust-bearing chamber  24   n  separate from fluid chamber  24   o  with minimal restriction to the friction-free rotation of rotor  24   e  provided by thrust-bearing  26 . The rotor  24   e  thrust-bearing  26  assembly is held over its center rotational axis by the inherent design of self-centering, thrust-bearing  26 , shown in FIG.  7 . The larger diameter self-centering flange  26   a  of thrust bearing  26 , top race  26   b , is seated in nozzle housing thrust bearing seat  24   m  and retained against pressure by snap ring  24   l  inserted in snap ring groove  24   k . The close tolerances of thrust-bearing seat  24   m  relative to thrust bearing, self-centering flange  26   a  horizontally and snap-ring  24   l  vertically assure a securely centered rotor assembly, minimizing any tendency to bind, resulting in friction-free rotation. Rotor arm  24   f  is attached at its center by threaded connection perpendicular to rotor stem  24   v  and provides the means for extending the rotor fluid canal  24   t  carrying fluid under pressure from fluid pressure chamber  24   o  through rotor arm fluid canal  24   u  to low volume spray emitters  24   g  and  24   h  installed in each end of rotor arm  24   f  by threaded connection and reactively transfers the light thrust energy produced by the volume spray emitters  24   g  and  24   h  in operation under pressure back to rotor  24   e  which provides the motive force that achieves reactive rotation. 
     The low volume rotary spray nozzles  24  are easily reconfigured to provide high or low volumes of fluid in a wide array of spray patterns by simply changing the spray emitters  24   g  (right angle, 180 degree, low-volume emitters such as commonly used in drip irrigation may be used) and  24   h  to produce the desired result. The overall size of rotary spray nozzles  24  may be altered to any desired dimension as required. Operating pressure is virtually unrestricted from less than 5 PSI up to 100 PSI and above, depending on materials used to construct the various nozzle components. As configured, low volume rotary spray nozzle  24  produces a totally diffused, non-directional spherical spray pattern, providing complete coverage in both the vertical and horizontal plane, at a very low volume of less than 0.4 gallons per minute at design operating pressure ranges between 20 and 40 PSI. It is easily understandable that a low volume of washing solution being evenly sprayed in close proximity with all interior vent hood surfaces under pressure to obtain full coverage will mildly impinge upon these surfaces and remove daily accumulations of oily residue from cooking, without copious amounts of solution flooding the interior of the vent hood  5 . 
     Self-centering, thrust- bearing  26  is comprised of four primary components, including self-centering top race  26   b  and interlocking bottom race  26   c , which are machined or molded of DELRIN, a free machining synthetic material exhibiting good dimensional stability and low moisture absorbency, DELRIN ball bearings  26   d  and glass ball bearings  26   e . Top race  26   b  defines female interlocking detent  26   f  in its bore to interface with male interlocking detent  26   g , on O.D. profile of bottom race  26   c  which, when engaged with  26   f , unitizes the two races to cage and retain ball bearings  26   d  and  26   e . Minimum but adequate clearance in the detent area minimizes frictional resistance between the races in rotation, particularly under loaded conditions. Increase in load compresses the two races slightly which increases the clearance in the detent area, transferring one hundred percent of the load, friction free, to the bearings  26   d  and  e . Glass ball bearings  26   e , which may also be stainless steel or other material, resist compression and hold their shape. However, glass will abrade itself, therefore, DELRIN ball bearings  26   d  are utilized alternately to isolate glass bearings  26   e , further minimizing friction. 
     Self-centering top race  26   b  exhibits an outside diameter larger than the outside diameter of bottom race  26   c . This extension of top race  26   b  is referred to as an integral top race self-centering flange  26   a  and serves to center thrust-bearing  26  and whatever shaft or component (rotor stem  24   v  shown in FIG. 6) which may be co-axial with its rotational axis or integral to its bore  26   h  (FIG. 7) when mounted in a comparable fixture (nozzle housing  24   c  shown) having an inside diameter only several thousandths larger to accommodate top race self-centering flange  26   a . Thrust bearing bore  26   h  may be threaded or, as with top race  26   b , may be detailed with an integral shaft female detent referred to here as rotor detent  26   i  to facilitate the installation of rotor  24   e , providing an interface with a thrust-bearing detent  24   r.    
     In as much as self-centering, thrust-bearing  26  is self-centering, a mounting fixture for shafted components, and a unitized thrust bearing, it eliminates the need for the more conventional type of assemblies where shafts are supported rotationally by ball, roller, needle bearings or bushings, longitudinally by pins, nuts, keepers, etc., and thrust bearings usually centered between thrust washers to reduce longitudinal compressive friction loads. 
     Universal retrofit mist-blocking baffle filter system  600 , FIGS. 1,  8  and  9  are comprised of baffle filter units  601 , header block  602 , termination block  603 , top splash guard  604 , and bottom splash guard  605  all produced in various sizes to achieve universality in retrofit applications with any existing standard exhaust hoods. 
     Baffle filter unit  601  comprises five components in its assembly; intermediate channel sections  610  ( a-d  referenced), male side channel  612  ( a  and  b  shown), female side channel  614  ( a  and  b  shown), top channel stringer  616  ( a  and  b  shown) and bottom channel stringer  618  ( a  and  b  shown). 
     Top channel stringers  616  and bottom channel stringers  618  are identical with the exception that bottom channel stringers  618  are perforated or have openings  619  ( a-c  referenced) to facilitate fluid drainage during the washing cycle. Top channel stringers  616  and bottom channel stringers  618  are attached in parallel to male side channel  612  and female side channel  614  at opposite ends. They form the outer frame of baffle filter unit  601 . Intermediate channel sections  610  are arranged in an evenly spaced, interlocking configuration along and perpendicular to top  616  and bottom channel stringers  618  between and parallel to male and female side channels  612  and  614 . The horizontal return legs  620  ( a-f  referenced) common to male and female side channels  612  and  614  and intermediate channel  610  are oriented in assembly in pairs overlapping, opposed and spaced from each other (e.g. in relation to each other return leg  620   a  and return leg  620   b  are overlapping, opposed and spaced from each other) to provide the means for blocking the transmission of airborne washing solution into the kitchen environment. Each return leg  620  lies in a plane which is approximately parallel to the plane which contains the respective intermediate channel section  610 . Two angled walls  624 ,  626  create the transition from intermediate section  610  to return leg  620 . The complete “S” track achieved by the overlapping, opposed and spaced interlocking horizontal return legs  620  adequately contains any splatter or spray resulting from or during the washing cycle within the confines of the exhaust hood  5  duct area while providing a tortuous air path for exhaust air flow with minimal static restriction. The design of male and female side channels  612  and  614  in modular sections incorporates an overlapping flange  622  with male side channel  612  which, when coupled in place parallel to female side channel  614  of the next baffle filter unit  601   b , provides a flashed connection between baffle filter units  601   a  and  b  installed in series to further prevent the passage of spray or splashed washing solution beyond the baffle filter units  601 . 
     During operation of the exhaust hood, the baffle filter system  600  will collect grease as the air entrained with grease is pulled through the baffle filter system  600 . The exhaust will be “off” when it is time to spray and clean the exhaust hood  4 . Ordinary baffle filter systems (not shown) allow spray wash to deflect through the filter system. However, in the present invention, the paired overlapping, opposed and spaced return legs  620  will not allow spray wash to deflect through the baffle filter system  600  regardless of the angle of impingement of the spray (i.e. it will contain the washing fluid). 
     Universal hood gutter system  700 , FIGS. 1 and 9, is designed to collect the washing fluid that drains out of the exhaust hood  5  via draining down the baffle system  600  during the cleaning process. Most conventional exhaust hoods are equipped with an integral grease collection gutter which usually suffices for this purpose. However, in instances where the usual grease gutter is too shallow to handle the volume of the cleaning solution or other fault is found, universal hood gutter system  700  may be utilized in retrofit. 
     Universal hood gutter system  700 , FIG. 9, may be of any length when assembled and is constructed of stainless steel members break-formed in three foot sections, joined by male/female overlapping connections considered standard in the sheet metal industry. These overlapping connections are intended to be joined and permanently sealed utilizing urethane adhesive sealant and pop rivets eliminating the need for welding, soldering, or penetrating fasteners. Horizontal flange  701  provides the means for attachment by interlocking with gutter system clip  702  which is permanently attached to the underside of exhaust hood  5  at three foot on center at each gutter lap connection. Gutter system  700  end blocks  703  close each end of the gutter system  700  and are permanently installed utilizing urethane adhesive to provide a liquid-tight connection. A large (two inch diameter) drain hole  704  is provided in one section of the gutter system  700  as a means for draining the washing fluid from the gutter system  700  into fluid return sump assembly  28 . 
     Fluid return sump assembly  28 , as seen in FIGS. 1,  5  and  9  is attached to either end or the center of the exhaust hood grease gutter  7  or universal hood gutter system  700 . It is comprised of return sump mounting plate  46 , sump assembly control box  48 , control box cover  50 , sump box  52 , sump pump  54 , liquid switch  56 , and sump pump spacer block  58 . Return sump mounting plate  46  has a two inch diameter hole  47  which mates with a corresponding hole in the exhaust hood grease gutter  7  or universal hood gutter system  700  which facilitates drainage into the fluid return sump assembly  28 . Sump pump  54  is top mounted in suspension below return sump mounting plate  46 . Sump pump spacer block  58  provides the means for routing the pump and liquid switch power cords  57   a  and  57   b  respectively over the top of sump pump  54  for internal connection to the power supply within control box  48 . 
     Sump box  52  is removably top-mounted to and in suspension below return sump mounting plate  46  at the one end by engaging sump box mounting flange  52   a  in a corresponding sump box mounting recess  52   b  perpendicular and along the top of control box  48  and at the other end by sump box draw catch  52   c . The bottom of sump box  52  is positioned ⅛ inches below the overall bottom of sump pump  54 . As liquid from the cleaning process collects in the sump box  52 , liquid switch  56  automatically senses the moisture and energizes sump pump  54  which discharges the contents by way of primary return pipe  32 . Fluid return sump assembly  28  also includes an overflow drain line  59 . 
     To compensate for solution lost during the cleaning cycle to surface retention, evaporation and fluid degradation, make-up solution comprised of clean water, fresh oxidizer, and microbes is automatically injected into the system on a daily basis via make-up line  41 . This solution is maintained in make-up solution injector reservoir  40 , FIGS. 1 and 9, which comprises a polypropylene reservoir tank  42  and an injector pump  44 . Injector pump  44  is activated during the timed cleaning by a one-shot delay timer located in sump assembly control box  48 . 
     The system is designed to operate as follows: Referring to FIG. 1, the bio-remediation unit  200  located on the roof systematically supports integrated naturally passive and active mechanical processes which utilizes gravity and centrifuge to reclaim washing fluid for recirculation by allowing standing unagitated grease laden solution to separate by specific gravity. More specifically, during a 23-hour, 50-minute inactive period, oil and grease hydrolyzed into highly diluted molecular suspension resultant of the cleaning process, and being of lower specific gravity than water, separates and rises to the surface of the tanks  202 ,  203  and  204 . The underlying remediated water can then be isolated and reused. 
     At the beginning of the cleaning cycle, a 24-hour timer energizes a subprocess timer having six separate cam actuated contacts, the first of which energizes and opens a normally closed low voltage contactor disabling the exhaust fan  8 . The second contact closes 30 seconds later energizing a pressure pump  226  within the unit which is connected to two separate sources of suction, controlled independently by solenoid valves  230 ,  234 . The first cycle has a duration of approximately 15 seconds and is referred to as the fluid reclaim cycle. A solenoid valve  230  located in a suction line connected to the lower portion of the discharge chamber  204  opens. The fluid from the lower strata of the discharge chamber  204  is then pumped under pressure to be discharged horizontally and parallel or tangential to the sides of both the receiver  203  and circulation  202  chambers which communicate commonly. The discharge chamber  24  is connected with the receiver  203  by way of an equalization line  241 . However, during the fluid reclaim cycle, the equalization line  241  is closed by a solenoid valve  239  isolating the discharge chamber  204 , as the sole source of supply for said fluid reclaim cycle. Fluid flow is stratified and directed to the center or mid level of the tanks by short horizontal channel sections  208 ,  209  to eliminate disturbance of the heavier solids settled at the bottom of the tanks  202 ,  203  and likewise allows the oil and grease to remain undisturbed at the top of the tanks. In this mode, the level of the discharge chamber  204  is lowered and the levels of the receiver and circulation chambers  202 ,  203  rise in a circular rotation. This rotation effects centrifuge to purge lighter solids out of suspension. Additionally, wier channels  206   a ,  206   b  at the top of both the receiver  203  and circulation chambers  202  communicate commonly with the discharge chamber  204 . The lip of the openings to wier channels  206   a ,  206   b  are perpendicular to the direction of the rotating fluid providing a means for controlled discharge of the lower gravity oil and grease isolated at the top of the solution once the level in the receiver and circulation tanks  202 ,  203  sufficiently raises the oil and grease to be force spilled over into and trapped in the discharge chamber  204  to remain isolated there during the subsequent cleaning cycle. The fluid contained in the receiver and circulating chambers  202 ,  203  is thereby reclaimed free of oil and grease and particulate matter ready to be recirculated through the spray boom  23  in the subsequent cleaning cycle. To complete the fluid reclaim cycle, fluid equalization solenoid control valve  239  opens to allow the fluid levels of the three tanks  202 ,  203 ,  204  to equalize and remains open during the cleaning cycle. 
     The oil and grease transferred to and trapped in the discharge chamber  204  resultant of the fluid reclaim cycle is re-hydrolyzed into molecular suspension with the microbe-rich emulsifier in the discharge chamber  204 . This is accomplished by diverting part of the excess volume of solution generated by the pressure pump  226  during the cleaning cycle by way of a “T”  243   c  in the primary pressure line  243 . The diverted volume is controlled by a flow valve  245  which limits a specific amount of reclaimed washing fluid to be discharged by way of a fan spray nozzle (not shown) positioned over and directed at a downward angle into the surface of the oil and grease floating in the discharge chamber  204  to agitate the fluid above the perforated plate (not shown). 
     When the fluid has been reclaimed, a timer located in the bioremediation unit  200  located on the roof  1  is set to activate a short, ten minute cleaning cycle during off or slow times. When the system is energized: 1. A normally closed contactor opens and disables the exhaust fan  8  to prohibit the fan from exhausting atomized cleaning solution into the atmosphere. 2. A pressure pump  226  draws suction from one of three tanks in the bioremediation unit (the circulation chamber  202 ) and pressurizes a low volume, low pressure spray boom assembly  23 . Said assembly  23  is comprised of rotary nozzles  24  connected by pipe sections  23   b ,  23   g , etc. (FIG. 4) and mounted vertically inside an exhaust flue  2  and horizontally along the length of any existing conventional commercial or institutional kitchen exhaust hood  5  above and behind the baffle filter bank  601 . A solution of fresh water automatically mixed with a specific amount of non-toxic PH neutral surfactant/disbursant oxidizer specifically designed to promote and enhance the propagation and proliferation of microorganic life, is sprayed inside the flue and exhaust hood  2 . The solution, sprayed at an extremely low pressure and volume via the special spray nozzles  24  providing complete coverage and mild impingement, is sufficient to remove the cooking oil and animal fat accumulated through a normal day&#39;s kitchen operation. The oils are in suspension or entrained in the washing fluid and drain down the baffle units  601  for collection by the gutter  700  which drains directly into the sump box  52 . There, the dirty fluid is collected and returned by the sump pump  54  through the return piping system  32  installed in the hood  5  and flue  2  where it passes through the vertical section  36   e  of the fan/flue riser  36  and is emptied under pressure into the fluid collector  36   a . There, the swirling fluid washes the grease that drains down the outer surface of the exhaust fan  8  and/or oozes out between the fan  8  and flue  2  and into fluid collector  36   a.    
     All cleaning completed, the fluid then drains from the fluid collector  36   a  back into the bioremediation unit  200  (the receiver chamber  203 ). The receiver chamber  203  is the only tank continuously connected to the circulation chamber  202 . This connection is made by a permanent pipe conduit  212  in the center portion of the chambers  202 ,  203 . Therefore, the fluid is circulated only in the lower portion of the circulation chamber  202 , which leaves any lower gravity fluid such as oil and grease virtually undisturbed, floating at the top of the tank  202 , and sediment undisturbed at the bottom. 
     At the completion of the timed cleaning cycle the exhaust fan contactor closes, energizing the fan  8 . A metered amount of fresh, non-toxic PH neutral surfactant/ disbursement oxidizer solution contained in makeup solution injector reservoir  40  (FIG. 9) also containing a concentrated level of highly potent freshly cultured hydrocarbon-specific micro-organisms, is introduced by timed injection into the fluid return sump assembly  28 , FIG.  5 . During the 24 hr. interval when the cleaning solution is at rest in the bioreactive fluid reclaim unit  200 , the oily pollutants separate by specific gravity and float to the surface of the tanks  202 ,  203 ,  204  where they are biodigested and converted to air, water and trace amounts of fatty acids. When the next cleaning cycle is activated, the pump  226  picks up the rejuvenated higher gravity cleaning fluid from the center level of the circulator tank  202  and cycles it through the exhaust hood/flue  5 ,  2  to drain into the sump assembly  28  where it combines with the new surfactant solution charged with fresh microbes at the first of each cleaning cycle. The circulation process thoroughly mixes the fluid and is thereby renewed daily. 
     In as much as the system takes on fresh makeup water and fresh surfactant/microbe solution daily, it must naturally, automatically discharge a certain amount of fluid as it equalizes at the full level and overflows. This is accomplished via a discharge pipe  214  connecting the discharge chamber  204  to the top of the nearest sewer drain vent stack  11 , common to the kitchen floor drain system  12 ,  13  terminating in the main grease trap  14  integral with the sewer system (not shown). This process guarantees the automatic daily inoculation of the main grease trap  14  and sewer drain lines with microbe enriched emulsifier/ oxidizer solution to offset any negative impact as a result of the introduction of toxic chemicals into the sewer drains by kitchen staff. This completes the cleaning and bioremediation process. By utilizing this process and the system relative thereto, one is able to eliminate the need of steam cleaning commercial kitchen exhaust hoods and related costs, avoid premature roof failure, eliminate the fire hazard associated with residual grease build-up, reduce insect and rodent infestation, reduce foul odors, and greatly reduce the volume of grease accumulating in the main grease trap, thereby reducing the need for frequent pumping (grease removal) and associated costs. 
     The system may be improved by adding a system and method to control and monitor the kitchen grease removal and bio-remediation system. Referring to FIGS. 10-12, such a control and monitoring system  90  includes a control panel  80  which may be linked by communication lines which are preferably diode laser/fiber optics lines to other components in the system and to a host computer to automatically control and monitor the system. Communications may be established by other modes, e.g., radio signals. The fiber optics lines allow the system  90  to function as a state of the art control and monitoring system and allow the communication lines to be retrofitted into an existing kitchen by running the lines through, for example, the return piping system  32  and through the exhaust hood  4  and flue  2  which may be a hot, explosive, flammable and/or hazardous environment. 
     This control and monitoring system can be hooked, for example, to a modem with line to a jack  82  to the host computer. The host computer may be established to control and monitor from one to thousands of various local and remote kitchen grease remediation installations. 
     The control and monitoring system generally includes a master control unit  86 , the control panel  80  and the host computer all of which are connected by communications lines and include sensors and actuators within the system. As mentioned above, fiber optics lines may run within the return piping system  32  to communicate with control panel  80 , the make-up solution reservoir  40 , the sump box  52  and the sump pump  54 . These lines emerge from a “T”-fitting  83  mounted over fluid collector  36   a  and run by line  84  to the master control unit  86 . The “T”-fitting  83  has one end which is the flush nozzle  35  to expel return fluid from return piping  32  into fluid collector  36   a  and two other ends, one of which connects to the return piping  32  to receive return fluid and the fiber optics lines and another end which connects to line  84 . Other fiber optics line(s)  88  may run through/from “T”-fitting  83  to the exhaust fan  8  for communication with same, e.g., to turn the fan on and off as controlled by the control/monitoring system  90  or through the control panel  80 . The master control unit  86  may be mounted on one end of the bioremediation unit  200 . A power on/off switch  87  is connected to the master control unit  86 . 
     The control and monitoring system  90  at the start-up will generally first establish the location of a new system and the ability to communicate within the system and with the host computer. Then, the system will establish starting parameters for the individual system such as, for example, a volume level for the sump box  52  and the duration and frequency of a cleaning cycle. Next, the system will run diagnostics which is essentially an error reporting cycle. Permissives for the error reporting cycle are established in the system software and by the starting parameters. After the diagnostics the system is ready to initiate and conclude wash cycles. To start the wash cycle the system will stop the exhaust fan  8 , allow fluid to drain and actuate valves and power the bioremediation  200 . This in turn will pressurize low volume, low pressure spray boom assembly  23 . In addition, the host computer may communicate with a local technician regarding potential problems or prompting a maintenance call. 
     The diagnostics generally include pressure sensors, liquid level sensors, temperature sensors, fluid quality sensors and power on/off devices within the system. 
     The diagnostics system should, by way of example, include several features as described below. The system should be able to detect the liquid level in the make-up solution reservoir  40 ; the system will determine whether the fluid level within the system is proper or whether the sump pump  54  is operational by detecting whether the sump pump  54  is on or off; determine whether a washing cycle completes; determine whether power comes on; actuate solenoid valves  230 ,  234  and  239  to start fluid flow in a washing cycle (this may be accomplished by e.g. a reed switch on the magnetic coil of the solenoid); determine whether the motor is running in the bioremediation unit  200  whether the valves are properly actuated, whether the filter is clean and whether the bioremediation unit  200  is clogged by, e.g. mounting a fluid pressure sensor at the exit from the bioremediation unit  200  to the low volume, low pressure spray boom assembly  23 ; prevent fluid in the system from freezing; maintain a suitable environment for microorganisms within the system and enhance hydrocarbon emulsification by having temperature sensors primarily in the bioremediation unit  200  which in turn may cause the heaters in the bioremediation unit  200  to cycle on or off; to detect or meter how much fluid is dumped from the bioremediation unit  200 ; to accumulate data and determine the duration and frequency of the cleaning cycle and of scheduled maintenance (e.g. initially the system parameters may define the wash cycle as running two minutes every twenty-four hours, but accumulated data may dictate more or less frequent cycles and/or longer or shorter durations); to detect the fluid level in the bioremediation unit  200 ; turn pumps on/off (e.g. micro-organism aeration pump); communicate with control panel  80 . The construction of such a system is within the level of one of ordinary skill in the art. 
     Referring to FIG. 12, the control panel  80  for the control/monitoring system is shown. The control panel  80  generally includes manual override buttons and various displays which in this embodiment are “labeled” LED displays. More than one color of LED may be used to communicate various messages as would be appreciated by one skilled in the art. The control panel  80  includes in this embodiment a control release button  810  which may be used in combination with the other buttons to be described, a system on/off button  812 , a cleaning cycle delay button  814 , a cleaning cycle start button  816  and an exhaust/vent fan on/off button  818 . The following LEDs with “labeling” may be included; system power off  820 , system power on  822 , system error  824 , system operational  826 , communication error  828 , error reported  830 , 30 minute start delay  832 , 1 minute until wash cycle starts  834 , check wash solution  836 , wash in progress  838  and check greasetrap  840 . Other displays and operational bottoms may be incorporated. 
     Other options/improvements are described below. The bioremediation unit  200  may be moved from the roof to be mounted inside the commercial kitchen or on the ground outside the commercial kitchen. 
     The baffle filter units  601  may be coated with TEFLON. The baffle filter units  601  may also be constructed with a “clamshell” feature allowing one to “fold” the baffle filter units  601  open for cleaning the return legs  620   a  and  620   b  and the interior of the baffle filter units  601  in general. The baffle filter units  601  may then be closed for use in the vent hood. 
     An oil/grease skimmer may be retrofitted to the system, for example, an off the shelf skimmer may be mounted over the existing grease trap in a perforated pipe and include a pump for pumping grease to a drum (all not shown) mounted in the commercial kitchen. A drain line  11  can run to the skimmer. 
     The fan/flue riser  36  can be constructed to be telescoping, as known to one skilled in the art. This allows the fan/flue riser  36  to be adapted/retrofitted and mounted to existing flues of various sizes. 
     The weirs  206   a ,  206   b  may be replaced by a single weir (not shown) which is central, integral and common to all three tanks  202 ,  203 ,  204  in the bioremediation unit  200 . The single weir is similar to the weirs  206   a ,  206   b  in its operation.