How to Dispose of Car Coolants
by Michael G. Sanchez
Used car coolant -- also called antifreeze -- can contain a plethora of potentially harmful chemicals. These include lead, cadmium, chromium and possibly other heavy metals. Antifreeze is both attractive and poisonous to children and pets. Clean up spills immediately. Coolant also wreaks havoc on septic systems by killing the good bacteria that breaks down waste. Finally, improperly disposing of used coolant is against the law in most areas.
Recycling Your Coolant
Ethylene glycol -- the active ingredient in most automotive coolant -- is recyclable. Many auto repair shops, landfills and municipal governments are equipped to recycle used coolant. To find a coolant recycling location near you, visit the website "Earth 911." To transport the used coolant to the recycling location, use a plastic or metal container with a tight seal.
References
- EPA.gov - Antifreeze
Writer Bio
Michael G. Sanchez has been a professional writer for over 10 years. A lifelong car enthusiast and former senior mechanic, he has written on a wide range of automotive topics. He holds a bachelor's degree in English literature from Castleton State College. Sanchez started writing about cars as a part-time copywriter for a local dealership while still in high school.
