Gasoline is an important part of everyday life, but it can pose a huge risk if it is not disposed of correctly. To safely dispose of old gasoline, consult your local government authorities. Maybe you need to go to a recycling center, a waste dump, an auto parts store, or even the fire department. When transporting gasoline, put it in safe, sealed containers. Also, keep in mind that in some cases it is possible to recondition the gasoline for later use instead of discarding it.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Choosing a Disposal Location
Step 1. Contact your local recycling authority
Some recycling centers accept gasoline and recondition or recycle it safely. Your city government officials should be able to point you to a correct recycling location to go to. Then call the recycling site ahead of time to see if they have any particular instructions you need to follow.
Step 2. Take it to a hazardous waste disposal center
This is a bit different from recycling, as a waste center typically discards, does not reuse, gasoline. You can still talk to your local government management to determine where there is a waste dump nearby. Call ahead to find out about restrictions, hours of operation, and what they get or don't get.
- Some hazardous waste disposal centers are free only to citizens of a particular area, while foreigners must pay to dispose of.
- In less populated areas, the nearest waste center may be open for very few hours. This is another reason to call ahead.
- Centers can also accept a maximum amount of gasoline, such as 40 liters (10 gallons), in a single visit or from a single person in a particular time period.
Step 3. Pay for a disposal service
If you have a large amount of gasoline to dispose of or if there are no other options in your area, you will have to pay a private disposal service. Find one of these companies by entering "private hazardous waste disposal services" and your location into a search engine. Ask for prices when you call. You should also find out if they are authorized by local authorities.
These types of services can be expensive, however they are cheaper than paying a hazardous waste penalty
Step 4. Attend a community collection event
To encourage citizens to dispose of waste safely, many cities regularly host recycling and disposal events. They usually post a list of details, as well as accepted materials, like gasoline, well in advance. To find out if this is an option for you, contact your local government.
Step 5. Ask the fire department for help
Various fire departments are willing to dispose of gasoline for you or suggest a location that will help you safely dispose of it. Fire departments can also provide tips on the safe storage and transportation of old gasoline.
Step 6. Drop it off at an auto repair shop or parts store
Many auto shops are willing to take used and dangerous car fluids. Some only accept oil or transmission fluids, while others are willing to accept just about anything, including gasoline. Call to see which stores in your areas are willing to help you.
Keep in mind that these stores will generally dispose of your gas for free without asking you to pay or make a purchase
Step 7. Do not dispose of it in the trash or the drain
It is illegal in some places to dispose of gasoline in any way that could endanger public health. Gasoline that runs down storm drains, for example, can potentially contaminate water sources used by humans and wildlife. If you don't have time to properly dispose of gasoline, it is best to simply leave it at home (in safe containers) until you are ready to do it properly.
The penalty for illegally disposing of gasoline can be high, including spending time in jail or paying hefty fines
Part 2 of 3: Transporting Gasoline for Disposal
Step 1. Transfer the gasoline to an acceptable container
If you are taking your gasoline somewhere to dispose of it, you will need to transport it in an airtight container for added security. Most plastic or metal gas cans, especially the 20-liter (5-gallon) models, are designed for the safe and fast transportation of gasoline. Funnel old gasoline into these containers and seal tightly before moving.
Step 2. Place the containers in a container
To prevent gasoline containers from tipping over while driving, place them in a large plastic bucket or container. This will keep the car clean and decrease the chance of gasoline getting on your skin as well. Clean the container with water after removing the containers.
Step 3. Put down the containers or carefully dispose of the gasoline
When you get to a waste center, you may need to put down the gasoline containers. This means that you will not save the cost of the containers, but you will save yourself a possible fine. Or they may have a big tank that you can put the gas in and you can keep the cans.
Part 3 of 3: Using Old Gasoline
Step 1. Pour some into a glass to check its quality
Get a glass jar or other clear container. Use a funnel to fill the glass with the gasoline. Turn the glass to see if there is any sediment on the bottom. Look at the color of the gasoline to see if it is darker than normal. Also, see if the gasoline emits a particularly foul or rotten odor. These are all signs that gasoline is ruined and not worth reconditioning.
- It is important to dispose of damaged gasoline because it can foul equipment fuel lines or cause other problems, even if it is diluted.
- Don't use a drinking glass. The cup you use should be designated for gasoline testing only.
Step 2. Recondition the gasoline
Place a funnel with a coffee filter in the bottom in the opening of a container. Carefully pour the old gasoline into the funnel. The filter will help trap the particles. Then you can add the gasoline in garden equipment or in your vehicle. Just mix 1 part of old gasoline with at least 5 parts of new gasoline.
If you don't have a coffee filter handy, you can also use 2 pieces of fine cloth as a filter. Simply cover the funnel with the cloth, pushing the cloth slightly towards the center, and then pour the gasoline in the middle
Step 3. Fill an outdoor device with gasoline
If you have gasoline that is old but failing good, recondition it and run it on a piece of garden equipment. It will still start the engine, but be prepared to get less efficient use of this tank of mixed gas.
Step 4. Mix it with fresh gasoline in the car
You can also add filtered (but not mixed) gasoline directly to the tank with a jerry can. For a tank that has a capacity of 9-10 gallons (34-37 liters), you can safely add half a gallon (2 liters) at a time until the tank is full. For a tank with a capacity of 40 liters or more, you can add 3-liter (¾ gallon) intervals until it is full.
You can tell when a tank is full by looking at the metal safety valve on the gas tank. When you start to see signs of gasoline on the valve, then you should stop
Step 5. Add a fuel additive
You can also add a fuel additive to your tank or old gas container. The additive can help break down dangerous compounds in old gasoline. Make sure to check your owner's manual or speak to a mechanic before doing this, as it is not a good idea for all types of engines.