Your furnace is one of the most important contributors to your home’s comfort level. During the winter, it keeps your family warm and toasty indoors while the snow flies outside. But like any mechanical device, your furnace will eventually break down and need to be replaced. If you have an older furnace that uses oil to generate heat, you may wonder what to do with the old oil. Here are more details about how to dispose of your old furnace oil and why you should do it.
How to Dispose of Furnace Oil
Furnace oil disposal is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA requires that you dispose of your old furnace oil at certified oil recycling centers. The following covers the options you have for recycling your old furnace oil.
Check With Your Local Waste Management Company
Before you do anything, it’s essential to check with your local waste management company. These companies use special facilities and processes to dispose of oil and other hazardous materials. They will likely have specific guidelines on properly getting rid of your old furnace oil.
They will be able to tell you the best way to dispose of your old furnace oil. In some cases, you may be able to schedule a pick-up for the oil. In other cases, you may need to take it to a designated drop-off location. Either way, it’s essential to follow the instructions of your local waste management company to ensure that the oil is correctly disposed of.
Ask Your Oil Supplier for Help
If you’re unsure how to get in touch with your local waste management company, or if you want more information on how to dispose of your old furnace oil, you can always ask your oil supplier for help. These companies are in the business of handling and disposing of oil, so they will likely have some good advice on how to get rid of your old furnace oil.
In some cases, they may even be able to take the oil off your hands and dispose of it for you. When requesting help from your oil supplier, be sure to have the make, model, and age of your furnace ready so that they can give you the most accurate information possible.
Take It to a Recycling Center
Recycling centers specialize in recycling waste oil and other hazardous materials. They will have the proper facilities and equipment to recycle your old furnace oil properly. This is a good option if you want to remove your old furnace oil without paying a disposal fee.
To find a recycling center near you, check your local yellow pages or do an online search. You can also check with your local waste management company to see if they have any recommendations.
Be sure to call ahead to the recycling center to find out their procedures for disposing of oil. Some centers may require you to bring the oil in a designated container, while others may have special drop-off times for oil disposal.
Hire a Hazardous Waste Disposal Company
If you don’t want to deal with disposing of your old furnace oil, you can always hire a hazardous waste disposal company to do it for you. These companies specialize in safely disposing of hazardous materials, so you can be sure that your old furnace oil will be disposed of properly.
Hiring a hazardous waste disposal company is usually the most expensive option, but it’s also the most convenient. The company will come to your home, pick up the oil, and dispose of it properly. You won’t have to worry about a thing. They will also be able to provide you with a certificate of disposal, which can be helpful if you ever sell your home.
Steps to Properly Dispose of Your Oil
Once you’ve decided how you want to get rid of your old furnace oil, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure that it’s properly disposed of.
Collect the Oil in a Clean, Dry Container
Be sure to use a container made of a material that won’t corrode, such as metal or glass. Avoid using a plastic container, as the oil may eventually eat through the material. Also, ensure the container is clean and dry before adding the oil. Any water or dirt in the container could contaminate the oil and make recycling difficult.
If possible, use a funnel to pour the oil into the container. This will help avoid any spills.
Seal the Container Tightly
Once the container is full, be sure to seal it tightly. This will help prevent any leaks and spills. It’s also a good idea to label the container with the words “hazardous waste” or “used oil.” This will help ensure that it’s properly disposed of.
To seal the container, you can use a screw-on lid, sealing tape, or even a piece of duct tape. If you’re using a screw-on lid, tighten it as much as possible.
Transport the Oil Carefully
Be sure to transport the oil carefully to avoid any spills or leaks. Put the container in a larger container, such as a trash can, to help avoid accidents. If you’re transporting the oil in your car, put it in the trunk so it doesn’t tip over.
Dispose of the Oil Properly
Once you’ve transported the oil to the disposal site, dispose of it properly. If you’re taking it to a recycling center, follow their instructions. If you’re having it picked up, call the waste management company to schedule a pick-up time.
Why You Need to Dispose of Your Oil
Used oil can be recycled and used again, but it must be disposed of properly. Below are some of the reasons why you need to get rid of your old furnace oil.
It Can Be Recycled
Used oil can be recycled and used again. Recycling used oil is the most environmentally friendly option for disposing of it. Recycling used oil helps conserve resources and reduces pollution. The recycling process removes impurities from the oil so it can be used again.
The oil can be recycled to make new products, such as asphalt, lubricants, and waxes, or it can be burned as fuel. Burning used oil generates energy and reduces the need for fossil fuels.
It’s Harmful to the Environment
Used oil is harmful to the environment if it’s not disposed of properly. Oil breaks down and can release harmful chemicals into the air, water, and soil. These chemicals can contaminate the environment and potentially harm people and animals. That’s why it’s so important to dispose of your oil properly.
It’s Flammable
Used oil is flammable, so it must be stored and transported properly to avoid accidents. Be sure to store it in a cool, dry place away from heat sources. When transporting it, be sure to put it in a container that won’t tip over.
It Has a Limited Shelf Life
Used oil has a limited shelf life, so it must be disposed of within a year. After a year, the oil starts to break down and become less effective. If you have any oil that’s more than a year old, be sure to dispose of it properly.
Disposing of your old furnace oil is essential for the environment and the safety of people and animals. Follow the steps above to ensure that it’s done properly. If you have any questions, contact your local waste management company. You can also reach out to our team of experts for more information. We can help with furnace oil recycling and disposal, as well as a full range of heating, cooling, and indoor air quality services. Call Triple A Air Conditioning & Heating in Flower Mound today to learn more!
