When repairing a car at home, fluids such as motor oil or antifreeze can spill into storm drains, polluting creeks and killing fish and other aquatic life. Do-it-yourself mechanics can conserve clean water and prevent pollution by practicing proper cleanup and storage habits.
Many communities throughout the U.S. have participating stores or other car fluid drop off locations for home mechanics to recycle motor oil, used antifreeze and car batteries. Two gallons of recycled oil, according to the American Petroleum Institute, can make a more energy efficient home since it can generate enough electricity to run the average household for almost 24 hours.
Ways to Reduce Pollution When Repairing Cars
- If changing a lower radiator hose, water pump, intake manifold, thermostat or radiator, catch the fluid from the drain cockpit and recycle or reuse it.
- Never use waste motor oil or gasoline to kill weeds.
- Use drip pans to catch leaking or drained fluids and repair leaks promptly.
- Place cardboard below the work area.
- Use an absorbent material such as kitty litter, sawdust or rags to clean up a small spill, then double-bag in plastic bags before putting in the trash.
- Make sure chemical containers have leak-proof lids.
- If while doing a brake job bleeding the lines is necessary, capture the fluid or place an absorbent material at the base of the wheel.
Source: The Watershed Protection Development Review in Austin, Texas
Recycling Motor Oil Tips
- Bring only used motor oil to a collection center. Do not mix oil with automotive liquids, other liquids or debris. This contamination makes it hazardous and not recyclable.
- Store oil in a sealed, leak-proof container. The best is a reusable combination drain pan/storage container.
Source: Shade Tree Mechanic Program
Shade Tree Mechanic Program in Austin, Texas
Twenty percent of pollution complaints in Austin, Texas are car related, according to city statistics. So, an awareness campaign for do-it-yourself mechanics began offering one-on-one assessments of vehicle maintenance practices. For more information, call (512) 974-2550.
The Shade Tree Mechanic Program offers buckets for home mechanics to use for oil removal and lists of places to drop off used oil.
Austin residents can report pollution complaints to (512) 974-2550. The hotline takes complaints 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The complaint must be a threat to waterways or creeks and should be reported immediately.
When reporting a complaint, make sure to provide the location of the problem, a description of what is causing the pollution, and who is responsible. Callers must also provide their names and phone numbers, even though this information will be kept confidential. City officials need contact information in case there are further questions.
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