So if you own a Colorado auto repair shop, there are several reasons why you shouldn't wait to own a used oil heater! Today we’ll explore used oil recycling and the advantages of burning your used oil to heat your business.
What is Used Oil?
Used oil refers to any type of lubricating oil that has been previously used in engines. It includes engine oils, gear oils, hydraulic oils, greases, and others. The term "used" basically means the oil was once utilized (most commonly inside engines), but now must be replaced with new oil.
The two most common types of used oil include:
- Engine oil - This is what keeps moving parts like pistons, bearings, valves, gears, and other internal components running smoothly. When this oil gets old, it becomes thick and sticky, which makes it difficult to move around within the engine. If left untreated, this will eventually cause damage to the engine itself.
- Transmission/transaxle oil - Transmissions and transaxles use different kinds of oil than regular engines. They require special additives to keep them working properly. These additives break down over time, causing their performance to degrade. As they get older, they also become thicker and more viscous.
How is Used Oil Recycled?
There are many ways to recycle used oil. Some people simply pour it directly back into the vessel where it came from. Others take it to local facilities that sell recycled oil. And many more find companies that specialize in reusing used oil.
Recycling used oil isn't just about saving money; it's also good for the environment. By recycling used oil rather than disposing of it, you can reduce your carbon footprint by not adding additional pollution to landfills. You can also save valuable resources by recycling your waste oil because you aren't wasting energy trying to dispose of something that doesn't need to go anywhere.
Recycling used oil is easy when you have access to a used oil heater. This unique heating system uses heat generated from burning used oil to warm up air being pumped through ducts throughout a given building. In addition to providing warmth, the heat helps remove moisture from the air so it won't condense onto surfaces.
Why buy a used oil heater when I can have waste oil hauled away?
If you're wondering whether or not you should invest in a used oil heater, here are some things to consider before making a decision:
- Cost- Many businesses don't realize how much money they spend on waste oil each year. According to one estimate, every auto mechanic spends $1,000 per month on used oil disposal alone. That adds up quickly!
- Safety- There are risks associated with handling used oil. For example, some waste oils may contain harmful chemicals such as lead, sulfuric acid, benzene, and formaldehyde. Also, it could pose hazards to your immune system too. Handling these substances without proper safety precautions puts employees at risk of getting sick.
- Environmental concerns- Burning fuel creates pollutants that contribute to smog and climate change. Using a used oil burner reduces emissions compared to hauling off used oil.
- EPA Compliance- Most states regulate disposal practices for hazardous materials. To comply with state laws, all auto repair shop owners must obtain permits to handle certain wastes. Permits vary depending on the material being handled.
- Efficiency- You'll notice a big difference between having a used oil heater installed versus leaving that oil sitting out all day long. The amount of heat produced by an electric heating element is far greater than any natural gas burner. It takes less effort to run a used oil burner than it does to haul off that oil.
- Easy servicing and annual maintenance- Most manufacturers recommend servicing your used oil heater annually. Just contact the Clean Burn distributor where you purchased your furnace to set up required maintenance and service appointments.
In short, investing in a used oil heater saves both time and money for your auto repair shop while helping protect the environment.
What kind of used oil heater do I need?
The most important thing to look for when choosing a used oil heater is efficiency. An efficient unit like our Clean Burn products, should produce enough heat to meet your needs while consuming minimal electricity. Efficiency ratings vary, so it’s best to look at stack temperature. The lower the stack temperature, the greater the furnace efficiency.
The next step is determining what size system you need. For example, if you are heating a small garage or workshop, you’ll need a much smaller unit than a large repair and service facility. At Interstate Energy, we offer Clean Burn waste oil furnaces and boilers in every different model and size you could possibly need.
And they are the most efficient, flexible, and long-lasting heaters on the market. Our wide selection of waste oil burners, furnaces, boilers, and more can provide your business with a heating system that increases your competitive edge.
Ready To Take Advantage Of Waste Oil Heating At Your Colorado Auto Repair Shop?
If you’re ready to leverage the benefits of a waste oil heater, you might be wondering, “Who can I talk to about the installation of a used oil heater?” Look no further than Interstate Energy!
Contact us at Interstate Energy today to make the best decision for the bottom line of your business. Our top-of-the-line machinery is engineered specifically to burn waste oil and they have been the most efficient waste oil heaters on the market for decades.
We offer a wide variety of waste oil heating systems to fit businesses of every size. Contact us today to learn more.