Old fuel disposal

Where can you return old fuel?

Private individuals can hand in old fuel at municipal collection points, such as waste transfer stations or environmental centres. But companies should arrange their own approved waste collector for disposal. In any case, old fuel should never simply be thrown away as residual waste or poured down the sewer. This would cause serious environmental pollution and also create dangerous situations.

Do you want to properly remove petrol residues or disposal of old diesel? Chemical Waste Netherlands offers a Collection Service for companies. In addition, we can supply special UN-approved containers for storage. We come to your site on demand to collect the old fuel for responsible processing according to the latest environmental regulations.

Is fuel chemical waste?

Yes, fuel is considered chemical waste when it is no longer usable. This is because fuels contain harmful components that can be hazardous to human, animal and natural health if handled incorrectly. Therefore, there are strict rules for the storage, transport and disposal of old and dirty fuel residues. Disposal therefore requires a careful approach via authorised collectors and certified hazardous materials processors.

Getting rid of old fuel: the cost

The cost of disposing of old fuel depends on a number of factors, such as the quantity, type of fuel and the location of your business. In addition, the method of packaging (packaging) also plays a role. Diesel and petrol, for instance, must be stored in approved drums, jerry cans or lid drums. If this is not the case, there will be additional costs for renting containers.

Requesting a no-obligation quote from us will give you a good idea of the costs you can expect. You pay a fixed amount per collection order and also a price per litre. It may therefore be wise to make a good estimate of the number of litres in advance, so that you know approximately how much you can expect.

Fuel shelf life

How long does fuel last and what is the best way to store and dispose of this liquid? Read the answers to these questions below.

How long do diesel and petrol last?

Petrol and diesel have a limited shelf life, although this varies by fuel type. Petrol lasts between three and six months under ideal conditions. Diesel usually has a slightly longer shelf life of six to 12 months. After these periods, the quality and efficiency of the fuel begin to decline, which can lead to oil filter and engine problems.

Can you still use old fuel?

Using old fuel is generally not recommended, especially if the fuel is significantly aged or contaminated. Petrol stored for more than 6 months can have chemical changes that adversely affect engine performance. Diesel older than 12 months can become contaminated by the growth of bacteria and mould, especially if it has come into contact with water.

If the fuel is only a few months old and has been stored under good conditions, you may still be able to use a small amount by mixing it with fresh fuel. But if it shows signs of contamination or deterioration, such as an abnormal smell or colour, it is better and safer to dispose of it.

How long does petrol stay good in the tank?

Petrol stays good in the tank for about up to 6 months. This shelf life applies only if a tank is properly sealed and the vehicle is stored in a cool, dark environment. Indeed, once petrol gets older, its quality starts to decline after 3 months, which can lead to clogged fuel filters and poorer engine performance.

How long does old diesel last in the tank?

Diesel stays good in the tank for about 12 months at most. But the car or vehicle should then be in a dark, cool place and the tank should be tightly sealed. Diesel oil deteriorates in quality after about 6 months. Fungi and bacteria can develop in it, especially if there is water or condensation in the tank, for example. Regularly checking the fuel tank for odour, colour and fluidity is therefore recommended to prevent clogged fuel filters and engine damage.

Responsible disposal of fuel residues

Responsible disposal of fuel residues is essential to prevent damage to the environment and comply with legislation. Companies bear responsibility for ensuring that old fuel is processed by authorised chemical and hazardous waste handlers. Offering it safely and in the right packaging will not only prevent environmental damage, but also potential fines for non-compliance with waste disposal rules.

In addition, you can consider taking measures to minimise the generation of old fuel, such as regularly checking stocks and using stored fuel on time. This can help reduce costs and risks and support more efficient operations.