Recycling used cooking oil is a great way to contribute towards a cleaner environment. This is so mainly because the oil can be used to create biodiesel, which is an environment-friendly alternative to petro-diesel. It also provides an easy way for restaurants to dispose of the oil without ending up with blocked drains.
If you are trying to play your part in contributing towards a cleaner environment, or are looking for a convenient way to get rid of used cooking oil without blocking your drains, then using recycling companies is an option that you should definitely explore. Used oil collection companies simplify the process for restaurants and homeowners by doing the heavy lifting in terms of collection and transporting of the oil. Some even provide you with storage containers. Here is what you should know about what you should consider when deciding which container size to go for.
Local regulations
Given that used cooking oil can block drains, and that when improperly disposed of, it can lead to bad odors and even become a health hazard, most local authorities regulate it heavily. Some of these regulations extend even to specifying the type of container that an establishment is allowed to use to store used cooking oil.
Therefore, before you settle on a given size, you should check your local laws and regulations. Asking restaurants in the area can also give you a clue of what is expected. This is something that may restrict your options as far as your choice of cooking oil storage container is concerned.
Space
It is always advisable that you store the storage container in an area that makes it easy for people to pour the used oil in. Doing makes collection easier and reduces the chances of an employee pouring it down the drain. Also, choosing an area that isn’t as disruptive to your other activities will make it less of an inconvenience to store the oil. Therefore, before you settle on a given container, you should consider the space that you have available in easy-to-access areas.
If you have a smaller space, then your choice of container size will be limited. In such a case, you may have to settle for either smaller containers, or containers that are narrower. People with more space available tend to have more freedom as far as their size choices are concerned.
Rate of oil use
The size of the container you choose should be enough to accommodate the rate at which you use oil in your establishment. Generally, the more the oil that an establishment uses, the more the oil that they will have to dispose of. As a result, establishments with higher rates of usage should go for larger sized containers while those with lower rates of usage should opt for smaller sized containers.
Collection schedule
The recycling company will likely have a set a pick-up schedule. Some companies allow their clients to set the frequency with which the oil should be picked up. Whichever the case, the number of times that the oil is being picked up should be factored in when determining the size of the container to be used.
In cases where there are more frequent pickups, one can afford to use relatively smaller containers simply because they get emptied at a faster rate. In cases where the pick-up interval is longer, it is always advisable to go for larger containers. This is because one will have to store the oil for slightly longer periods and this may call for having more storage.
However, it is important to note that used cooking oil typically encourages microbial activity. As a result, having a larger container does not always mean that it is advisable to keep it for longer periods. As a result, you should always create a healthy balance between convenience and health when determining the size of the container that is ideal for used cooking oil collection.
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You made a good point when you said I should consider the used oil recycling company’s collection schedule before choosing a container for the oil. That’s because the frequency of their pickup schedule would help determine if I need a large or small container. I’m trying to be more eco-conscious, which is why I plan to recycle my used cooking oil. Thanks for the tips!
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