If you are flushing your coolant or repairing your vehicle, you will want to know how to dispose of your old antifreeze both safely and properly to prevent harm to your loved ones or pets, as well as to the environment.
In this article we discuss how to properly dispose of antifreeze and the dangers antifreeze presents.
How to Dispose of Antifreeze?
#1. Check Antifreeze Condition.
Before doing anything with the antifreeze, you want to know what type you are using and if it is condition. You need to know if the antifreeze is used or unused, and diluted or undiluted.
Fresh antifreeze could be disposed of differently because used coolant can have heavy metals. You will likely take either to the same place, but the organization will want to know what the quality is in.
#2. Flush Coolant.
Before replacing your vehicle’s coolant, you’ll need to dispose of the old antifreeze, so it’s a good idea to collect it properly if you want to have it disposed of properly.
Wear a set of gloves to keep your skin safe. Put your drain pan directly under the spot when you remove the drain plug.
Be sure your drain pan is big enough to capture the liquid without spilling, and allow it to drain completely before moving your drain pan.
#3. Transfer to Safe Container.
Once the coolant is drained in the pan, you need to put it in a proper container. If it is not in a proper container it could spill or can leak which might present a safety issue.
Use containers designed for holding these hazardous liquids. You may also use the original antifreeze containers that you emptied when you re-filled the system. Until you can drop off the liquid, put the antifreeze in a secure location.
#4. Dispose at an Appropriate Location.
Find an auto parts store, recycling center or service station that accepts antifreeze in your area. You can search these locations on the internet or locally by calling to find out who will take the antifreeze.
Be sure to let them know what type of antifreeze you have (used / unused and diluted / undiluted) before you drop it off.
You will also want to confirm the operating hours and days of operation for drop-off. You do not want to haul this hazardous material, only to find it is closed.
Once you arrive at the recycling center, you will hand in all the containers of antifreeze. Some facilities may have this as a FREE service, but it may require a nominal fee.
#5. Avoid Dangerous Practices.
You may be tempted to pour your antifreeze down the sink drain, and you should never do that either! You also don’t want to pour anything in it out on the grass or dirt outside.
Antifreeze is poisonous. It is dangerous for both animals and people.
Both this water is detrimental to the environment and this is another reason to avoid through away antifreeze! Take a few minutes of your time to dispose of it properly to best accommodate everyone!
What is Antifreeze?
Antifreeze is a form of engine coolant that’s mixed with water to control the engine temperature and keep it from overheating. It’s just as important as both oil and transmission fluid.
Today’s antifreeze mixes with water to lower the freezing point of the water and raises the boiling point.
This liquid circulates through the engine, removing heat from the engine while also preventing corrosion.
Change the antifreeze in your car every 30,000 to 60,000 miles and also consult the owner’s manual for your recommend make and model.
Antifreeze is a glycol-based solution created with propylene glycol. Antifreeze was previously made of ethylene glycol until its toxicity was discovered in children and pets. Children and pets were simply attracted by the overly sweet smell and taste.
Either way, both ethylene glycol and propylene glycol are considered toxic substances.
Most antifreezes made today contain propylene glycol, but there are still brands using ethylene glycol. Either way, you should remain careful and keep the antifreeze stored correctly.
What’s Toxic about Antifreeze?
Antifreeze contains glycol, making it toxic to both pets and people. However, there are two specific types with different levels of toxicity. The two that you may want to be aware of are:
Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze: This is the more toxic of the two, and it hasn’t been used as widely in the last few years.
Once this antifreeze is ingested, it becomes toxic and can cause damage to the kidneys, lungs, liver and brain, ultimately leading to organ failure and death if untreated.
In addition, it can cause reproductive harm and/or birth defects in pregnant animals. The added danger is that ethylene glycol has a sweet smell and taste, making it more attractive to them.
Can I pour antifreeze down the toilet?
No, antifreeze is poisonous and can harm water supplies, wildlife, and damage your plumbing pipes. Dispose of your old antifreeze at a service station or recycling center.
Does antifreeze evaporate on the ground?
Antifreeze will eventually evaporate on the ground, but not quickly, and this depends on if it is mixed coolant, and how much water is in it. The water will evaporate faster than the antifreeze.
Is coolant bad for the environment?
Yes, most coolants are bad for the environment, although it depends on what type of coolant it is and how it is disposed of. Most coolants contain chemicals that are very harmful to the environment.
Where can you get rid of antifreeze?
To dispose of coolant you can take it to a service center, recycling center or your local auto parts store. Many auto part stores can actually help you get rid of it, so it may be worth a shot if you do not have a recycling center near by.