How to Dispose of Car Fluid Properly

There are many different types of fluids necessary to keep your car running safely, smoothly and efficiently. We all are aware of that. The engine oil, air conditioning coolant, brake, washer, transmission, power steering and radiator fluids all need changing at various intervals. If you’re servicing your car or truck yourself, it’s crucial to know what to do with your old fluids – and it’s something many people don’t think about.

Can You Throw Away Old Car Fluids?

Used car fluids cannot be thrown away or treated like a common waste product. They contain toxins that will contaminate the environment and contribute to health hazards. Throwing away old fluids is unethical, and there are rules and regulations in place in most areas that mandate the safe handling of this type of hazardous waste.

How Can You Safely Dispose of Different Fluids?

You have a variety of disposal options depending on the type of fluid. If you’re wondering how to dispose of brake or transmission fluid, where to recycle antifreeze, and what to do with engine oil and AC coolant, use the following tips to make sure you do it right:

• Burn: Burning off oil-based fluids is a viable option that protects against contamination. It can burn as a fuel for energy recovery. However, you should take it to an appropriate burning facility where it will be utilized in a manner that meets federal standards for used oil disposal. Do not try this at home.
• Recycle: Many auto shops will accept used oil, but there are other fluids that they may not accept. To recycle antifreeze, it’s best to find a recycling center or your local household hazardous waste program that accepts it. For transmission fluid disposal, pour fluid into a leak-proof container and drop it off at the nearest automotive fluid collection site.
• Reuse: Some car fluids can be reused at a later time. Before you research where to recycle antifreeze or engine coolant, consider if you can use it in the future. If so, keep it in a sealed, labeled container stored in a safe place. In most cases a fluid such as antifreeze can be kept and reused for multiple years, depending on the type.
• Store: If you can’t get to a recycling facility, you can store transmission and brake fluid until you have the opportunity to dispose of it safely. Make sure your storage vessel is leak-proof and kept in a cool, dry location out of the reach of children and pets.

Protect the Environment When Disposing of Car Fluids

Car fluids are among the most recycled materials in the world, but they are also the cause of a variety of environmental concerns due to improper handling. Do your part to protect the planet by always following safe handling procedures for hazardous materials.

For more information on how to dispose of brake fluid and other toxic materials used in cars, get in touch with the experts at Hy-per Lube today. Contact us online or find the location in your area to speak with a live representative.