Old gasoline is highly inflammable even when not used for a long time. This necessitates a safe disposal method that is environmentally friendly and that complies with any regulatory laws.
Leaving gasoline lying around in your garage is a disaster in the making. For one, someone may accidentally decide to have a smoke near the gasoline container or an electrical fault may ignite a spark that will set off the gasoline.
Before settling on a safe gasoline disposal method it is prudent you check with local authorities on what the law says about disposal of inflammable items.
Determine whether old gas is reusable
Before making that decision to dispose of your old gas you may want to check whether it is still reusable. If your gas is not that old or hasn’t developed a dark color you can mix it with new gasoline and use it in some of your machinery like the lawnmower. If you notice it has a sour smell and you cannot remember the last time you used, it is time to dispose it. First, find a gasoline recommended container and pour the contents into it.
Old gasoline that is ready for disposal has a foul smell like rotting fruits and when you try to pour it you will notice some clumps floating around. New gasoline is visible and flows well. But, unusable gasoline has a dark color. If you cannot view the gasoline try running your engine. If it makes a thumping sound then it is time to dispose it.
Inquire for recycling centers
Most developed cities have collection centers where you can dispose chemical or highly inflammable liquids like gasoline. A call to your city authority will give you information on the nearest center. If your local authority does not have one look for hazardous centers. You will need to be extremely careful when transferring oil gas to the government recommended container. Any spills should be washed off immediately. Also, wash your hands with soapy water on your way to the disposal center.
Professional disposal services
The decision to hire a professional disposal company will depend on the quantity of gasoline that you have. However, note that professional disposal services charge a fee for disposal. First, Google a professional disposal service near you, next check whether local authorities license them. The best part about contracting such services is you do not worry about packaging or disposal.
Fire department
Your local department probably handles many gasoline incidents. They have the expertise and knowledge on safe disposal of gasoline. When you contact your local fire department they may either suggest a safe disposal place or dispose the container for you. If you talk to them nicely they will not charge you anything.
Auto Repair Shop
Another good suggestion for safe disposal of gasoline is auto shops. They often deal with several inflammable objects like gas, transmission fluid and various oils. You will need to create a relationship with them and they can even do it for you for free.
Local community collection event
This will depend on your city. In some places the community will hold an event where they encourage citizens to bring their old inflammable fluids for safe disposal. They will then collect the items and dispose them collectively. This is often free but you need to check with your local authorities whether they offer the service and what items are allowed.
How to deal with gasoline spills
Gasoline is highly inflammable meaning you have to be extra careful how you handle it. If you happen to spill some gasoline on the floor, it is prudent you take care of the spill immediately. Mostly, baking soda will do the trick. Cover the area with the solution, then wait for a few minutes before scrubbing it off. If there is spills on your clothes, change them and wash them off with some hot soapy water. Before, hanging your clothes for drying ensure they no longer smell of gasoline. When disposing your gasoline container ensure you do not smoke or encounter someone who does.
Gasoline container
In every city there is an approved gasoline container that is recommended for storing gas. Most of these containers weigh 5 gallons and are designed to be safe for carrying gasoline. If you are not going to be disposing your gasoline immediately, it is prudent that you first label the container gasoline. This prevents someone from accidentally using the fluid. Ensure you have properly sealed the lid as gasoline is known to evaporate. When storing the container ensure it is upright so that it does not accidentally spill.
What you should not do with old gas
Draining gasoline in the sewerage system: This can be tempting as many people assume that the water will neutralize gasoline. However, gasoline contains various poisonous chemicals that can harm the environment. When you drain it through the sewerage system it can find its way to the water supply system hence pose a hazard to the plants and ecosystem. It is also not recommended to drain your old gasoline on your backyard.
Throw it with the trash: This is a disaster in the making. Gasoline is highly inflammable and a single spark from a cigarette can cause a massive explosion no matter how stale the gasoline is. This method is not only dangerous but it is illegal in most jurisdictions. It is also not recommended to leave your gasoline container outside for long durations. Some of this containers can develop cracks and start leaking. If you have a metallic container then it susceptible to rust.
Inhaling gasoline: it is also dangerous to inhale gasoline vapors. If you accidentally do or swallow it by mistake, take some milk. If the gasoline has gotten to your face or eyes, wash them with lots of water. If you experience further symptoms, it would be prudent to seek further medical help.
Checking the quality of gasoline for re-use is not as complicated as some people think. You do not have to be a certified chemist to tell whether the old gasoline is safe for use. This method always works. First, pour the old gasoline into clear glass container.
What you should be checking for is the color of the gasoline and sentiments. If you notice it has a dark color and their some sentiments that have settled at the bottom of the container know that it is time to dispose that gasoline. Old gasoline also has a rotten smell. You should not use such gas in your car as it will contaminate your fuel system. It will also cost you more if there is engine damage.
Conclusion
Gasoline has become an essential component of our everyday lives. It is what we use to drive our cars and machinery on a daily basis. However, gasoline has a finite shell life. After, this it develops a darker color and has a foul smell. The first part in safe disposal of gasoline is to determine whether you can re-use it.
If it is reusable you can mix it with new gasoline and use it for your machinery. If the gasoline is stale then identify a recommended government container where you can store it for safe disposal. You can contact your local authorities for safe disposal centers, contact a professional disposal company, and talk to the local fire department or an auto shop.
