Recycling used oil is essential for helping the environment and preventing waste. Whether you do car repairs at home or own a car repair shop, you will quickly accumulate a lot of used oil. The container the oil goes in will make a big difference when you want to recycle the oil and schedule a pickup.
Follow our guide to learn about container options and choices for your garage.
1. Polyethylene Containers
One of the more modern container options for a garage is a polyethylene container. Polyethylene, often shortened to "poly" for product descriptions, is a thermo plastic that is durable, is flexible, and can last years without any deterioration. The strong conditions of the material can handle oil exposure without any wear or break down.
When you choose a poly container for your business, a white container offers advantages because of the semi-transparent properties. As you fill the container with used oil, you will see the oil levels rise up from the outside, so you will know when the container is filled and not accidentally overfill it.
The plastic also allows you to easily label the container using many kinds of permanent markers. The thickness of the plastic will help reduce odors coming from the container.
2. Stainless Steel Containers
Steel containers have been used for years to store oils and other liquids, but regular steel has been know to rust, rot, and break down from the stronger materials. A stainless steel container offers more security, and you will not run into problems with rust when you store oil inside the container.
Stainless steel containers are heavier than a poly container, but they offer a lot of security. For example, if you bang into the container, you do not need to worry about making a hole or accidentally knocking the container over.
Stainless steel containers come in multiple color options so you can easily sort through different waste products including oil and anti-freeze. Sticker labels also work easily on the containers and allow your garage to remain clean and organized.
3. Tote Containers
If you have a lot of oil waste at your business, then you may want to consider a larger tote container as opposed to a smaller drum. The larger tote containers will often include a stainless steel grate around the outside of the tote for more protection and durability.
The steel grate will also include support grips on the bottom so the tote stands properly. You can have a dedicated area to the tote and use the tote to hold all of the oil waste. When a recycling company comes to gather the waste, they will have professional pumps and lifts to easily remove the oil waste no matter how big the container is.
4. Reconditioned Containers
If you are looking for a more environmentally friendly oil storage option for your garage, then consider a reconditioned container. Reconditioned containers have been used before but are thoroughly cleaned out and look brand new when you purchase one. The containers do not have any oil residue or scents left behind.
When you shop for reconditioned containers, you can find any style, including poly, stainless steel, and totes. The containers will often cost less and save you money in the long run. If you have your whole container picked up, you have the option to have a reconditioned container dropped off at the same time to collect more oil.
Contact us at Denver Oil to schedule oil recycling options and order your ideal container. We offer all of the options mentioned above, and our experienced team can help answer any additional questions you have about oil container options.