Motor oil is the lifeblood of so many machines used for both work and play. From lubricating the engines of our cars and trucks, to helping power boats and recreational vehicles, to keeping power tools like chainsaws and equipment such as lawn mowers operating as they should, motor oil can be found almost everywhere.
Of course, over time, motor oil picks up particles of dirt, gunk, chemicals, and other impurities that degrade its performance. That’s why all of the above vehicles and equipment need to have their old oil replaced at regular intervals. Changing the oil yourself is one of the most common ways for DIY-types to save money on maintenance. Car shops have recycling systems in place to dispose of dirty oil. But what should you do with that used oil after you’ve performed your own oil change?
Don’t Throw It in the Trash!
First things first: Carelessly throwing containers of old oil in the garbage or pouring it down the drain can cause irreparable damage to the environment. It might be tempting to think that your couple gallons of oil won’t make a big difference, but that’s just not true. Studies by the Environmental Protection Agency have shown that millions of gallons of water can be negatively impacted by the amount of oil in a single oil change. Rivers, lakes, oceans, and the wildlife that live there all suffer the consequences, as does our drinking water.
By recycling and reusing old oil, you’re keeping it out of waterways and also saving energy in another way. It takes less energy to produce a gallon of re-refined oil than it does to create it from pure crude oil. In fact, 1 gallon of used motor oil produces the same 2.5 quarts of oil as a whopping 42 gallons of crude.
If those numbers don’t convince you, here’s another reason not to toss old oil: It’s illegal in most cities and states not to dispose of it properly.
Uses for Old Motor Oil
If you’re already trying to save money by changing your own oil, you should appreciate the fact that recycled motor oil can be used for other appliances and industrial applications. Because it maintains its essential properties, it can be re-refined to live on in the form of diesel or marine oil or other hydraulic fluids. That’s the beauty of this petroleum-based product: It never wears out. It’s like it was designed to be recycled.
Re-refining oil does exactly what the name suggests. It reprocesses the used, dirty oil into premium quality oil. In fact, lab tests show that re-refined oil, which must meet the same refining, performance, and quality standards as new products, is just as effective as the oil you buy off the shelf. According to some studies, the re-refined oil actually performs better than new oil. That explains why many trucking operations or companies with large vehicle fleets choose to reuse their own oil by sending it for recycling.
Storing Old Oil
To properly dispose of dirty motor oil, first you need to fully drain it from your vehicle or other machine. Your best bet is to put down a tarp to protect your work area and put a drip pan, bucket, or some other metal container under the engine to collect the oil. Keep in mind, it could take a few hours to drain completely. Be patient.
Don’t forget about the used oil filter! Use a screwdriver or knife to cut a hole in the filter so any excess oil drains out and then put it in a sealed bag or container. Chances are the residual oil can be recycled, too.
You can’t use just any container to store old motor oil. The original packaging is ideal, but if that’s not available, find something made of polyethylene or another heavy plastic. Old beverage containers are generally not heavy enough. Plus, motor oil mixed with other fluids isn’t recyclable, whether that liquid is gasoline, a few leftover drops of juice, or even water. Some drip pans come equipped with lids, which make the storage process even easier.
Make sure the container is leak-proof with a tightly sealed lid to keep it safe from curious kids or pets. And if you’re storing it for a period of time, keep it in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight.
Where to Dispose of Dirty Oil and Filters
Many auto parts retailers and mechanics will accept old oil and take care of the recycling for you. Some areas will allow you to recycle it through curbside programs—but be sure to research whether your city or town accepts old oil before leaving it out. If all else fails, visit Earth911.com, a website dedicated to environmental resources, to find a recycling location near you.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.