When disposing of waste water from a fuel tank bottom, where do you put it?

The correct disposal method for wastewater from a fuel tank bottom is to utilize an oil/water separator. This is because the waste water from a fuel tank bottom often contains various contaminants, including oils and fuel residues. An oil/water separator is specifically designed to separate oil and other hydrocarbons from water, ensuring that the potentially harmful substances are removed before the water is discharged.

Using an oil/water separator helps protect the environment by preventing contaminated water from entering the larger water systems or sewers that are not designed to handle such pollutants. The separator collects the oil on the surface, which can then be properly treated or disposed of, while allowing the cleaner water to be safely released.

In contrast, disposing of this wastewater directly into a sanitary sewer may not comply with regulations regarding contaminants, as wastewater treatment facilities may not effectively remove all oil and chemicals. A water treatment facility typically handles a different type of wastewater and may not be specifically equipped for fuel-contaminated water. Similarly, a sewage treatment facility is designed for human waste and gray water rather than industrial or hazardous waste like that from fuel tanks. Thus, utilizing an oil/water separator is the most appropriate and regulated method for this type of disposal.