Each year Development generate thousands of gallons of used antifreeze. The most common type, made from ethylene glycol, is used as a freeze protection and as a heat transfer medium for motor vehicles, heavy equipment, and buildings. Although most used antifreeze is disposed of, it can be recycled. Recycling is preferred because it cuts waste. This fact sheet provides information on proper recycling of used antifreeze and is intended as guidance only.
Recycling helps keep antifreeze from being improperly dumped into waterways or on land.
Antifreeze, made of ethylene glycol, water, and corrosion inhibitors, is toxic to humans and animals. Used antifreeze may contain metals which can contaminate soil and groundwater. Determine when antifreeze needs to be changed out by testing whether characteristics such as freeze protection and corrosion inhibition are adequate. Don't change out antifreeze unless necessary, to avoid creating a waste production. Determine when antifreeze needs to be changed out by testing whether characteristics such as freeze protection and corrosion inhibition are adequate.