Old petrol disposal

Where can I dispose of old petrol?

Old petrol should not be disposed of or discharged into nature, the residual waste container or the sewer because of the harmful substances it contains. It is very important that you follow the legal regulations for the disposal of hazardous substances.

Private individuals can dispose of their old petrol at designated collection points, such as environmental centres, recycling points or specialised chemical processing companies (e.g. at a KCA depot or chemokar). These locations are equipped to collect and process petrol in a safe and environmentally friendly way. However, companies have to arrange their own chemical waste collector to dispose of (old) petrol residues. They cannot contact the municipality.

Gasoline disposal: the cost

The cost of petrol disposal for businesses can vary. It depends on the quantity, your location and the drums and containers used, among other things. Costs are often charged per litre or per container. Large quantities involve bulk and a special vacuum truck is called in.

You can request a no-obligation quote from us so that you know in advance what the cost will be for petrol disposal. We can also collect other chemical waste or, for example, your disposal of old diesel.

Shelf life of petrol

How long does petrol keep and what is the best way to store petrol residue? Check out the answers to these frequently asked questions below.

How long to store petrol in jerry can?

Petrol can be stored for 3 to 6 months in a jerry can or other suitable container. It therefore has a limited shelf life, even if stored correctly. Under ideal conditions, such as storage in a cool, dark room in a well-sealed container/drum, petrol can be kept for about three to six months. After this period, the quality of petrol begins to deteriorate, which can lead to reduced performance and even damage to engines.

How old can petrol be?

Petrol should best not be older than 6 months. The liquid is subject to ageing and may become unusable after only a few months. After six months, the quality of petrol can deteriorate significantly, especially if it has been exposed to light, heat or air. It is therefore recommended not to store petrol for more than six months. If you are in doubt about the age of petrol, it is better to dispose of it safely and take no chances.

Mixing old petrol with new, is that allowed?

Mixing old petrol with new petrol may seem like a solution, but this is generally not recommended. While a small amount of old fuel may still be usable, mixing old and new can lead to performance problems in engines. This risk has increased in recent years as modern vehicles are more sensitive to fuel quality. It is safer to dispose of old fuel completely and supply your equipment with fresh fuel.

How can you tell if petrol is still good?

There are a few ways to determine whether petrol is still good. First, you can pay attention to the smell; old petrol often has a stronger, off-putting smell. In addition, the colour can change; fresh petrol is clear and light in colour, while old petrol can become darker and cloudier. If you notice these changes, it is advisable to stop using it.

Responsible return of old petrol

Handing in old petrol responsibly is the responsibility of companies themselves. They are obliged to store and dispose of chemical waste properly. This not only prevents environmental damage, but also protects human and animal health. By using an authorised processor and following the correct procedures, you can contribute to a cleaner environment and fulfil your corporate responsibility.

In addition, you can consider taking measures to minimise the amount of old petrol, such as better managing stocks and regularly checking shelf life. This will not only reduce the need for disposal, but also contribute to more efficient operations.