If you have a garage full of vehicles, chances are that you are an expert at DIY oil change. But what do you do with all that used motor oil?
It is crucial to understand how to dispose used motor oil because it’s not as easy as throwing it away in the trash. Irresponsible disposal can have severe environmental implications, and you may even get in legal trouble.
In this guide, we’ll learn why and how to Dispose of your used motor oil, as well as understand the nitty-gritty of old oil disposal.
So, roll up your sleeves—let’s handle engine oil disposal the right way!
How to Properly Dispose of Motor Oil?
Here’s how to get rid of used motor oil without causing harm to the environment.
Step 1: Contain All Oil
The first thing to do is collect every drop of used motor oil. Make sure to use a drip pan to catch the oil as it drains from your vehicle, leaving no spills behind. Keeping the oil in the right container is important to stop leaks and keep it from making a mess.
Step 2: Clear Out the Oil Filter
Your car’s oil filter holds quite a lot of leftover oil. Carefully remove the used filter and place it upright over your drip pan. Let it drain completely. This stops leftover oil from leaking later and keeps things from getting dirty or polluted.
Step 3: Move to a Leak-Proof Container
Can you throw away motor oil in the trash? Absolutely not! Instead, transfer the drained oil into a strong, leak-proof container. It should have a secure lid to avoid accidental spills. Avoid using anything that can easily crack or leak.
Step 4: Don’t Mix
It might seem easier to mix your oil with other car fluids, but that’s a bad idea. Mixing it with things like antifreeze, brake fluid, or water can make it impossible to recycle. To get rid of used motor oil the right way, keep it clean and separate.
Step 5: Safely Store the Motor Oil
After putting the used motor oil in a leak-proof container, store it in a cool, dry place until you can dispose of it. Keep this box away from kids and pets. Make sure it stays upright to avoid spills or leaks.
Bonus Tip: Take The Container to a Local Disposal Site
After you store the motor oil, the last step is to take it to a drop-off center. Most auto parts stores, recycling facilities, and many service stations will accept your used oil for free. Still, you could also check with your city’s waste management website for local locations.
You will not only be disposing of the oil safely, but you will also be enabling its recycling and putting it into use once again.
Where to Dispose of Old Motor Oil?
As a responsible car owner, you should know where to dump car oil and where you definitely shouldn’t. Here is a quick guide to help you out.
Where to Bring Old Motor Oil
Here’s a list of places where you can bring your used motor oil, and they’ll safely dispose it for you.
1. Waste Collection Sites
Your local waste collection center likely has a dedicated drop-off point just for engine oil disposal. Check your city’s website for locations and timings.
2. Curbside Recycling
Many locales have curbside recycling programs that accept used motor oil. They can pick up your used motor oil in a leak-proof container. Contact your local waste management service to see if you can get this service.
3. Earth 911
For a quick, easy way to find an engine oil disposal location, use Earth 911’s search tool. Simply enter your zip code, and it will show nearby places where you can safely dispose used motor oil.
4. Local Auto Parts Suppliers
Retailers like Integrity 1st and others have collection bins for disposing of used motor oil. It ensures your oil is handled properly.
Where Not to Dispose of Old Motor Oil
Knowing where not to throw old motor oil is just as important as knowing where to take it to protect your environment and yourself. Avoid the following at all costs:
1. Storm Drains
Dumping oil into storm drains is illegal. The oil is absorbed into the ground, causing pollution, contaminating waterways, and endangering marine life.
2. On the Ground
Never pour used motor oil on the ground. It seeps into the soil, toxifying groundwater and disrupting local ecosystems.
3. Garbage Cans
You can’t simply throw old motor oil in the trash. Standard garbage services don’t have the means to handle hazardous waste. Instead, take it to a designated disposal site.
What are the Costs for the Disposal of Waste Oil?
How much you spend on disposing of waste oil depends on where you live, how much motor oil you have and the disposal method you choose. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Charges at Recycling Centers
Local recycling centers can easily accept your used motor oil for a small fee. It usually costs anywhere between $2 to $5 per gallon. In fact, they often do it for free if you give them the old motor oil in smaller quantities.
2. Fees at Auto Repair Shops and Service Stations
If you are bringing in larger quantities for old oil disposal to these places, the fee for processing is generally around $10 to $15. Properly drained oil filters are required, as landfill disposal is prohibited. However, Texas does not apply any additional charges for improperly drained filters.
3. Free or Low-Cost Government Programs
Many municipalities offer free or low-cost disposal of waste oil. Programs such as Florida’s used oil recycling program allow people to dispose of up to five gallons of used oil at no charge. Similarly, Rhode Island statewide disposal is also available to all residents.
4. Retailer Collection Programs
Free oil recycling services are available at most auto parts retailers. It creates an incentive for those who want a proper and responsible way of disposal.
5. Hazardous Waste Collection Events
Many communities have collection events to handle various types of hazardous waste, including used motor oil. These events are generally listed on your city’s waste management website.
Which Laws Apply to the Disposal of Waste Oil?
Here is an overview of the laws and regulations that govern waste oil disposal.
1. Federal Laws
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates waste oil disposal under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
This law ensures that used motor oil is managed as a hazardous material if it is disposed of improperly yet allows for its recycling without being classified as hazardous waste.
2. State and Local Laws
Many states and municipalities have their own regulations for waste oil disposal.
For example, in Texas, you can’t dump used motor oil on the ground, in sewers, or into water. It’s also not allowed to use it to stop dust. Plus, you must keep the oil in a strong, leak-proof container labelled “Used Oil.”
If you have more than 55 gallons, you’ll have to get permission from the state, but smaller amounts can be taken to places like auto shops or recycling centers and they can dispose of it for you for a small fee. Old oil filters can’t go in the trash; they must be drained and recycled.
Proper Disposal of Used Motor Oil at Integrity 1st Automotive
At Integrity 1st Automotive, we take the guesswork out of proper motor oil disposal.
Count on us for trusted recycling services and care in environmental protection.
Due to our involvement with local recycling programs, your used motor oil is disposed of responsibly and safely treated. With every service, you will be helping to protect the environment, save natural resources, and support eco-friendly business practices.
Bring your used motor oil to Integrity 1st Automotive for a safe, hassle-free solution that’s good for you and the planet. Together we can make a difference toward a cleaner, greener future!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How should waste oil be disposed of?
Take used oil to a local recycling center, auto shop, or waste collection site. Never put it in the trash or pour it on the ground.
2. How to recycle engine oil at home?
Do not recycle it at home. Drain the oil into a leak-proof container specifically designed to hold waste oil. Store it separately from other fluids. Take it to a recycling drop-off location.
3. Is waste oil considered hazardous?
Yes, waste oil is hazardous because chemicals in the used oil leak into the soil and water.
4. What would you do if there is no bin container intended for used oil?
It’d be best to place the used oil in an airtight container and call your local recycling program or household hazardous waste collection facility for details about how to proceed.
5. How hazardous is motor oil?
Used motor oil is extremely hazardous. Even small spills can damage the environment and pollute water, soil, and wildlife. Always handle it with caution.
