Used motor oil and old gasoline can be more than just messy leftovers — they can become environmental hazards if not handled correctly. Whether you’re a DIY mechanic or just cleaned out the garage and found a can of expired gasoline, it’s important to know how to dispose of these substances safely and legally. In this guide, we’ll explain what to do with old gas, how to dispose of bad gasoline, and how used motor oil can be recycled — or even repurposed.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Old fuel disposal is not as simple as tossing it in the trash or dumping it down the drain. Improper disposal of used motor oil or gasoline can contaminate water supplies, damage soil, and harm wildlife. That’s why many local governments have specific rules for fuel disposal, and why it’s critical to know where and how to dispose of old gasoline or oil responsibly.
How to Dispose of Old Gasoline
How to Get Rid of Old Gas
If you’re wondering what to do with old gasoline that’s been sitting in your garage for months (or even years), the first step is to check its condition. Gasoline starts to degrade over time, especially when exposed to air. Expired gasoline can lose its potency or develop a sour smell.
If the gas still looks and smells relatively normal, it may be usable in lawn equipment. If it’s cloudy, rusty, or smells bad, it’s best not to use it at all.
Best Way to Dispose of Old Gasoline
Here are your safest options for old fuel disposal:
Take it to a hazardous waste facility: Many cities have designated sites where you can bring expired gasoline.
Use a fuel disposal service: Some automotive shops offer gasoline removal or can guide you on how to dispose of gasoline legally.
Recycle it (if accepted): Some locations accept old gas for recycling or energy recovery.
Where Can I Get Rid of Gasoline?
Search your local municipality’s website or call local recycling centers to ask where to get rid of old gas. Never dump old gas into the ground, sewer, or trash.
How to Dispose of Used Motor Oil
Can You Burn Used Motor Oil?
Yes, under the right conditions. A used motor oil burner or used oil for heating setup can be legal and efficient in some regions, especially for heating garages or industrial spaces. Burning used engine oil in a used motor oil furnace can provide heat while reducing waste. However, this must be done with proper equipment and permits.
Used Motor Oil Heater Options
Many businesses use used motor oil burning heaters for energy efficiency. These units are designed to burn oil safely and can be found as:
Used motor oil heaters for garages
Motor oil furnaces
Used engine oil furnaces
Check your local laws before installing or using one.
Other Motor Oil Disposal Methods
If you’re not burning it, the best way to dispose of used motor oil is to:
Take it to an auto parts store: Many offer free recycling.
Bring it to a mechanic or service center: They often handle bulk oil recycling.
Find a local recycling center: Many accept used oil, but make sure it’s in a sealed container.
Can You Recycle Old Gasoline?
How to Recycle Old Gas
Some waste management facilities can process old gasoline. This involves filtering and reconditioning it for industrial use. It’s not something to attempt at home, so leave this one to the professionals.
Fuel Disposal: What Not to Do
Don’t dump old gasoline into a storm drain
Don’t throw it in the trash
Don’t burn it in an open fire
Don’t store it in containers not designed for fuel
These actions are not only illegal in many places but also highly dangerous.
What About Gasoline Removal from Vehicles?
If you’ve accidentally filled your car with bad gas or need to discard it for repairs, fuel disposal should be handled with care:
Use a siphon pump to extract it
Store in an approved fuel container
Bring it to a disposal facility
Never attempt gasoline removal by mouth or unventilated tools — fumes are toxic and flammable.
Used Oil as an Energy Source
For those with farms, garages, or large properties, used motor oil heaters and burning waste oil systems offer a way to use what would otherwise be discarded. Some people even use a used motor oil burning heater in their workshop to reduce heating costs in winter. However, the environmental and legal considerations should always be evaluated first.
Greener Alternatives & Future Outlook
As sustainability becomes more important, there are now engine oil furnaces and diesel fuel lubricants that are more environmentally friendly. Some diesel lube additives and diesel oil treatments are biodegradable or produce fewer emissions when burned.
While it’s possible to burn used motor oil in specialized setups, always check your local environmental regulations to avoid fines or pollution.
Conclusion
Whether it’s old gasoline in your shed or used motor oil from your last DIY oil change, knowing how to dispose of it properly is essential. From finding out where you can dispose of gasoline to considering a used motor oil heater, responsible action protects both the environment and your community.
So next time you’re cleaning up your garage or changing your oil, think twice before you dump. Safe disposal is just a quick search or short drive away.