Everything you need to know in one place

Frequently asked questions

We’ve compiled a list of the most common questions customers ask about installation, new build, cleaning.

In general
What is biogas?

Biogas is a renewable energy source that produces combustible gas consisting primarily of methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂). It is formed naturally when organic material such as animal manure, food waste and plant residues decompose under oxygen-free conditions in biogas plants. This process is called anaerobic digestion.

How does food waste become biogas?

Once sorted and ground, the food waste is collected and transported to a local biogas plant. The biomass is then broken down by microorganisms in oxygen-free conditions, producing biogas and a residual product that is used as fertilizer.

What is biogas used for?

Biogas is used for several purposes, for example:

  • Heat and electricity productionBiogas can be burned in CHP plants to produce heat and electricity.
  • FertilizerBiofertilizer is the residual product that remains after biogas production. It is more efficient than traditional manure because the nutrients – especially nitrogen – are easier for plants to absorb. It covers a large part of the plants’ N, P and K needs.
What is the difference between biogas and natural gas?

The main difference between biogas and natural gas lies in their origin:

  • Biogas: Produced by the decomposition of organic material under oxygen-free conditions and is a renewable energy source.
  • Natural gas: A fossil fuel energy source formed over millions of years from decomposed organic materials beneath the earth’s surface.

Biogas is considered more sustainable as it utilizes waste products and reduces greenhouse gas emissions

What is a food waste fraction?

A food waste fraction refers to the category of waste that consists of organic material such as food scraps, fruit and vegetable peelings, coffee grounds and the like. This fraction is collected separately to enable biological treatment, such as composting or biogas production.

Sorting food waste as a separate fraction is required by law.

What is a grease separator?

A grease trap is a legally required device installed in drainage systems to remove grease, oil and food residues from wastewater. It works by utilizing the difference in density between water and grease, causing the grease to float to the surface where it can be collected and removed. This prevents clogging of the sewer system and reduces the load on treatment plants

BTN also supplies grease separators

How does the BTN system differ from traditional waste containers?

The BTN system makes waste management intelligent, efficient – and documentable.

Instead of handling food waste and grease as two separate fractions, our system brings it all together in one solution. This means fewer collections, less CO₂ emissions and far more efficient operations.

Unlike traditional bins and grease traps, waste isn’t just stored – it’s converted into green energy in a circular system. At the same time, we provide detailed data and documentation that makes it possible to track food waste and waste volumes over time – and use it actively in ESG reporting and behavioral change.

What type of companies use BTN?

The BTN system is used by a wide range of companies and institutions, including:

  • Commercial kitchens and canteens
  • Restaurants and hotels
  • Hospitals and nursing homes

These organizations benefit from BTN’ efficient handling of organic waste, improving hygiene, reducing waste and supporting sustainable practices.

See more cases and references

Technical and installation
Can the system be adapted to our building - existing and new construction?

Yes, the system is customized in collaboration with our consultants. Read more about our process

We review your needs and physical environment so we can find the optimal solution together. Both grinder and tank are selected based on how much waste is handled and how much space is available. This ensures an efficient and flexible installation – whether it’s in an existing kitchen or a new build.

How long does installation take?

Installation is done in two phases and is customized to your construction process or operational needs.

First, a construction phase is carried out where piping is established, the tank is placed and the physical installation is prepared. This is followed by the technical start-up, where the grinder is installed, the system is put into operation and the customer receives thorough training in its use.

The duration depends on the project scope and environment, but we ensure that both phases are effectively coordinated with your schedule.

What is the typical lead time for a project?

Lead time depends on the type and complexity of the project.

In new builds, the project can take longer because the installation is often coordinated with other construction activities. In existing buildings, the process can be more compact and the project can typically be completed in a matter of weeks. Regardless of the nature of the project, we plan all phases in close collaboration with you so that the solution is implemented efficiently and without unnecessary disruption to your operations.

Can we add more grinders or get a bigger tank later?

Yes, the system is both scalable and modular.

If your needs change over time – for example, due to increased waste volumes or expansion of facilities – the system can easily be upgraded. It is possible to add extra grinders and a larger tank so that the solution continues to match your operations.

What do we do if we change kitchen equipment or get a new tenant in the building?

We are available for both renovations and tenant changes.

If the kitchen is renovated or the layout is changed, we are happy to help you adapt the installation so that the system continues to function optimally. When a new tenant moves in, we offer training on how to use the grinder and the system in general, so that both operation and sorting run smoothly from the start.

What do you do to avoid freezing during winter periods?

The system is designed to work reliably all year round – even in freezing weather.

For outdoor tanks, we insulate the tank and use L-tracing (heating cables) along the piping to prevent freezing. If the tank is buried, it is placed at a frost-free depth to naturally minimize the temperature impact. In this way, we ensure that the system works stably even in cold conditions.

What is the lifetime of the tank, grinder and accessories?

The system’s components are designed for longevity – with the possibility of technological upgrades.

Many of our first customers are still using their original grinder, which is a testament to its reliability and durability. However, to keep up with technological developments, we typically recommend, that the grinder is upgraded after 7-10 years. The tank and other installations have an even longer lifespan, depending on use and maintenance.

Operation, emptying and maintenance
How do I know when the tank is full?

At 80% full, a yellow light will illuminate on the grinder. This light must be acknowledged (pressed) before the grinder can be used further. When the tank reaches 100%, a red light will illuminate and the grinder will automatically stop to prevent overflow

When is the tank emptied?

Emptying is done automatically on demand and handled by our professional emptiers.

The system sends a message when the tank is approximately 80% full, after which it will be emptied within the next 3 business days. How often this happens depends on your waste volumes and the selected tank size.

By default, emptying takes place during daytime hours, but if you wish, we can – for an additional fee – schedule collection outside of normal working hours to minimize any odors or disruptions.

What service agreement do you offer?

We offer a comprehensive service and emptying agreement that ensures that the system works reliably in everyday life.

The agreement includes, among other things, regular emptying, technical service and support if problems arise. The aim is to make operations as simple as possible for you.

You can read more about the content of the agreement.

What types of waste can the grinder handle?

The grinder can handle most organic food waste – as long as it is mixed correctly.

To ensure optimal operation, it is important that dry and dense foods (such as rice, coffee grounds and bread) are mixed with wet or blended products such as salads, vegetables and leftovers. This provides a suitable consistency that is gentle on the system and promotes stable operation.

Above each grinder, a clear and easy-to-follow poster is placed for everyday use.

Is there anything we can't put in the grinder?

Yes – certain materials can damage the system and should therefore not be put in the grinder.

Avoid throwing in the following: metal, plastic, bones, frozen food, fruit stones, oyster shells, whole meat tendons and whole fish skin. These items are too hard or tough and can cause downtime or damage the equipment.

If you are in doubt, you can always check the guidance poster posted by the grinder – or contact us for advice.

What happens if an employee accidentally throws cutlery into the system?

If cutlery or other hard objects are accidentally dropped into the grinder, it can cause it to stop working.

However, the system is robust and has safety measures that automatically stop the grinder in case of blockage. In many cases, the issue can be resolved by using our self-help guide, which walks you through step-by-step troubleshooting.

If the issue cannot be resolved, our service team is ready to help.

Is it difficult to operate the grinder in everyday life?

No – it’s easy and the grinder integrates directly into the kitchen’s daily routine.

The grinder is typically located in the immediate vicinity of the work area, so staff don’t have to go to backyards or waste rooms with food waste. This makes sorting faster, more hygienic and much easier to implement in everyday life. The grinder is operated with a few taps and requires no specialized knowledge.

Hear chef Rasmus Lolk talk about using the grinder

Can I clean or service the system myself?

Yes, many cleaning and service tasks can be done in-house.

The system is designed to be easy to maintain in everyday life. Above the grinder, you’ll find a poster showing how to perform daily and weekly cleaning.

Sustainability and Environmental data
How does the system fit into our environmental strategy or green profile?

The system makes it easy to work structured with sustainability and food waste – both in practice and in documentation.

All waste volumes are automatically registered and you get access to data that can be used in green accounting and sustainability reporting. This allows you to track progress and set concrete goals.

Part of the solution is our counter module, which accurately records how often the grinder is used. This provides insight into waste production and usage patterns – and can form the basis for behavioral changes, process optimization and waste reduction.

In other words, the system is both a practical operational aid and a strategic tool in your environmental efforts.

Does the system comply with environmental and waste regulations?

Yes, the BTN system fully complies with current legislation and technical standards.

The system is CE marked and designed according to relevant EU directives and standards for machine safety, electromagnetic compatibility and drinking water safety. This means you can integrate the solution into your operations with complete peace of mind – both in terms of regulatory requirements and internal compliance.

We always advise our customers on how to comply with applicable legislation and ensure that the solution is adapted to both technical and legal requirements.

Read more on our site

Can we keep our environmental certification (e.g. the Refood label)?

Yes, you can easily keep current environmental certifications such as the Refood label. Achieving the Refood label only requires 3 food waste initiatives and that you have a food waste recycling scheme with an approved waste management company. BTN is registered as an approved waste collector in the waste register.

How can we use environmental data to change staff behavior?

The environmental data available in our customer portal provides a concrete and visual overview of food waste.

When data becomes visible, food waste becomes not just something you feel – but something you can measure and act on. This creates a strong foundation for dialog and behavioral change among both employees and management.

Several of our customers have successfully involved both staff and students in reducing waste.

See examples and experiences under our references

How can food waste data help a business?

By collecting and analyzing food waste data, companies can:

  • Identify waste areas and implement targeted improvements.
  • Optimize purchasing and inventory management to reduce surplus and obsolescence.
  • Engage employees in sustainability initiatives by making results visible.
  • Document environmental progress in reporting and certifications.

See how Region Zealand has used environmental data to gain greater clarity in their waste management efforts.

Economy and investment
What does the economy look like - investment, operations, savings?

The financial benefit depends on your waste volumes and existing management – and can be calculated with a few clicks.

Use our online tool to get a quick overview of investment, running costs, savings and payback time.

If you want a more detailed analysis, our consultants will prepare a financial report that takes into account your specific operations and potential savings.

What are the operational costs?

The running costs consist primarily of emptying and possible service.

You pay a fixed price per emptying, depending on tank size and location. For service visits, the first hour of driving is included, after which time and any spare parts are invoiced.

An annual service inspection is included in our service and emptying agreement

Is leasing or financing available?

Yes, we offer flexible rental agreements that can be adapted to your needs and budget.

The system can be rented for a fixed period, where both equipment and service are included.

We also offer the option of choosing a refurbished grinder – a solution that is both economical and sustainable.

Others
Can you provide communication material we can use in our marketing? and can we tell our good story?

Yes, we are happy to work with our customers to tell the good stories.

We can help you with communication material, facts and angles that can be used in your marketing – both internally and externally. Please contact our marketing manager Laura at lp@btnwaste.comif you want sparring or materials.

Did you not get an answer to your question?

If you didn’t get an answer to your question – never hesitate to contact us via the contact form on this website or via email.

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