How to Recycle Antifreeze/Coolant
Engine coolant containing ethylene glycol or propylene glycol that prevents freezing and overheating. Highly toxic but recyclable into new antifreeze through distillation and re-additization. Sweet taste makes it dangerous to pets and children - as little as 1 tablespoon can be fatal to a cat.
- 1Allow engine to cool completely before draining (coolant can reach 230°F)
- 2Use funnel to drain into clean, labeled container to prevent spills
- 3Keep different types separate (ethylene glycol vs propylene glycol)
- 4Never mix with oil, brake fluid, or other automotive fluids
- 5Store in original antifreeze container or clearly labeled milk jug
- 6Keep container tightly sealed to prevent evaporation
- 7Store in cool, secure place away from children and pets
- 8Clean up any spills immediately with water and paper towels
- Auto parts stores (AutoZone, O'Reilly, NAPA, Advance Auto)
- Quick-lube shops and service stations
- Municipal hazardous waste collection events
- Household hazardous waste permanent facilities
- Some fire stations (call ahead to verify programs)
- Automotive recycling centers and scrap yards
EXTREMELY TOXIC to pets and wildlife. As little as 1 tablespoon kills a cat, 2-3 tablespoons kills a dog. Sweet taste attracts animals. NEVER pour down drains, toilets, or storm sewers - illegal in all states and carries heavy fines. Mixing with other fluids makes entire batch hazardous waste.
Ethylene glycol is highly toxic to aquatic life - even small amounts can contaminate groundwater and kill fish. However, recycling recovers 95% of glycol content through distillation, preventing environmental contamination while creating new antifreeze. Recycled coolant performs identically to virgin products while saving 85% of production energy.
- Extended-life coolants (5 years vs 2 years) reduce disposal frequency
- Propylene glycol coolants (less toxic but more expensive)
- Professional cooling system services with guaranteed recycling
- Coolant testing to determine actual replacement needs vs scheduled changes
Accepted
- Pure ethylene glycol antifreeze (most common type)
- Propylene glycol antifreeze (less toxic 'pet-safe' type)
- Long-life/extended-life coolants (5+ year formulations)
- Universal coolants and premixed formulas
- Motorcycle and small engine coolants
- RV and marine antifreeze (check glycol type first)
Not Accepted
- Coolant mixed with oil or other automotive fluids
- Heavily contaminated coolant with significant oil or debris
- Unknown antifreeze types or homemade mixtures
- Coolant with significant rust or sediment contamination
- Coolant in damaged or leaking containers
Estimated value: $0 (cost for disposal) - facilities typically don't pay for used coolant but some offer free disposal
- Ethylene glycol (primary toxic component)
- Propylene glycol (less toxic alternative)
- Anti-corrosion additives
- pH buffers and stabilizers
- Dye additives (usually bright green, orange, or pink)
What's the difference between ethylene glycol and propylene glycol coolants?
Ethylene glycol is more toxic but more effective at heat transfer and freeze protection. Propylene glycol is 'pet-safer' (still harmful, just less immediately lethal) but costs more and provides slightly less protection.
Can I mix different colors or types of antifreeze for disposal?
For recycling purposes, yes, but keep ethylene glycol and propylene glycol separate if possible. Never mix coolant with oil or other automotive fluids - this makes the entire batch hazardous waste.
How do I safely clean up antifreeze spills?
Absorb immediately with paper towels, dilute with water, and dispose of all materials with used antifreeze. Never let spills evaporate - the residue remains toxic. Clean area thoroughly with soap and water.
Can I pour antifreeze down the drain if I dilute it?
NEVER. Dilution doesn't reduce toxicity and it's illegal everywhere. Even small amounts can contaminate water treatment plants and harm aquatic life. Always take to proper disposal facilities.
How often should I change antifreeze?
Standard antifreeze: every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles. Extended-life coolants: every 5 years or 100,000+ miles. Test pH and additive levels to determine actual needs rather than following rigid schedules.
Is RV antifreeze the same as automotive antifreeze?
No! RV 'antifreeze' for winterizing plumbing is usually propylene glycol-based and non-toxic. Automotive RV engine coolant is the same as car coolant. Check labels carefully before disposal.
What should I do if my pet drinks antifreeze?
Seek emergency veterinary care immediately - every minute counts. Ethylene glycol poisoning can be treated if caught early, but becomes fatal within hours. Never wait for symptoms to appear.
Can I test my antifreeze to see if it needs changing?
Yes! Use antifreeze test strips or hydrometers to check freeze protection, pH levels, and additive concentration. Testing can extend coolant life and reduce unnecessary disposal.
What happens to recycled antifreeze?
It goes through distillation to separate glycol from water and contaminants, then receives new additive packages. The result meets the same performance standards as new antifreeze while using 85% less energy to produce.
Can I recycle old antifreeze myself?
No. Home distillation is extremely dangerous due to toxic vapors and fire risk. Professional recycling facilities have specialized equipment and safety systems required for safe processing.