Garden equipment, particularly chainsaws, lawnmowers, and generators, usually run on two-stroke engines. These little, powerful engines are powered by a mix of gasoline and oil. The problem is that after sitting for so long, the gas can go bad, so you have to get rid of it.
Here are 5 methods to get rid of old 2 stroke fuel:
- Recondition the old gasoline.
- Take the fuel to a local hazardous waste disposal center.
- Drop the old fuel off at an auto parts store.
- Call your fire department.
- Attend neighborhood collection events.
This article will discuss these methods in detail, including the specific steps to follow in each case. If you’re here for in-depth information on these and the safety guidelines to follow when disposing of hazardous waste, then keep reading.
1. Recondition the Gasoline
One of the safest ways to get rid of old 2 stroke gasoline is to recondition it. This procedure involves mixing old gasoline with a new one in a 1:5 ratio, resulting in a mixture that’s 83% fresh gasoline and only 17% old fuel.
Then you’ll need to add an octane booster to restore the original quality of the gas.
Here’s a guide on how to recondition 2 stroke gasoline:
- Filter the old gasoline through a coffee filter to remove solid contaminants.
- Combine old gasoline with a new one in a 1:5 ratio. For example, for every gallon (3.8 liters) of old gasoline, you should add 5 gallons (19 liters) of fresh gas.
- Add octane booster to restore the original octane rating. For example, you could use this Rislone Hy-per Fuel Octane Booster (link to Amazon). It’s designed for use in all fuel tanks and can treat up to 20 gallons (76 liters) of old gas.
Here’s a video that will come in handy when following the steps above:
Caveat: This method will only work if the old fuel isn’t contaminated with liquid contaminants. However, traces of water are an exception to this. If you notice small traces of water, you can add isopropanol as a drying agent to remove them.
2. Take the Fuel to a Local Hazardous Waste Disposal Center
Another safe way to get rid of old gasoline is to take it to your local hazardous waste disposal center. The great thing about this method is that many centers will even accept fuel containers, which can be left there for recycling.
Here’s how to safely drop off old gasoline at your local waste disposal center:
- Research which facility is closest to you.
- Call the facility ahead of time and ask if they can take in used 2 stroke gasoline. If they can’t, ask where the nearest center that accepts this kind of material is so you have an idea of how far you’ll need to drive and how long it’ll take.
- Pack the gasoline in a safe, sealable container.
Caveat: Make sure you follow any instructions from the waste center about when to call them with your location. In some instances, they may only allow drop-offs on certain days or during specific hours.
3. Drop the Old Fuel Off at an Auto Parts Store
If your local waste disposal center doesn’t accept used 2 stroke fuel, another good option is dropping it off at a nearby auto parts store. They may help you by taking the old gas and disposing of it safely, or they may be able to give you some tips on where to drop off your hazardous waste.
Here’s how to drop off old gasoline at your local auto parts store:
- Look for an auto parts store that accepts used 2 stroke fuel. Call ahead if you’re not sure.
- Ask the attendant about any necessary paperwork you’ll need to fill out before they can accept your waste material. If there’s no paperwork, then simply follow the next two steps below.
- Pour the old gas into a safe, sealable container.
- Bring your hazardous waste to the auto parts store during their business hours.
4. Call Your Fire Department
If your local waste disposal center and auto parts store doesn’t accept used 2 stroke fuel, then the last option is to call your fire department. They may give you some information on where to drop off old gasoline, such as a hazardous waste center.
They’ll also advise you on how to manage and treat hazardous waste according to laws and regulations.
Here’s how to call your fire department:
- Look for your local fire department in the telephone directory or online and call them.
- Ask if they can tell you where to drop off used 2 stroke gasoline, such as a hazardous waste center. If not, ask what steps you need to take to get rid of it properly.
5. Attend Neighborhood Collection Events
Instead of making hazardous waste management a do-it-yourself project, another great option is to attend an upcoming neighborhood collection event.
This way you can drop off your old gasoline at a centralized location and make the process much easier on yourself. You’ll also be giving back to your local community by helping keep it safer for everyone.
Here’s what you need to know about attending a neighborhood collection event:
- Look for an upcoming waste collection event in your area. You can search online or ask around for information using social media or word of mouth.
- Ensure you take the old gasoline to the local collection event during designated hours.
- Follow any additional instructions from the event coordinator.
That being said, here are additional safety guidelines to follow when disposing of old fuel:
- Keep the flame away from any heat sources, sparks, or flames.
- Store old gasoline in a sealed container away from children, food, and water supplies.
- Use gloves and protective gear when handling hazardous material, such as gasoline.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after disposing of the material.
Wrap Up
Hopefully, this article has shed some light on the five best options for how to get rid of old 2 stroke gasoline. If you do it yourself, make sure you properly test and dispose of your hazardous waste through a local facility.
If not, leave it up to professionals at a collection event or bring it to an auto parts store. Either way, take care of your hazardous waste responsibly. Now that you know how to dispose of your old gas, stay safe out there!
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