Chlorine, calcium hypochlorite, muriatic acid, and cyanuric acid are some of the chemicals you use to keep your pool safe and clean for every swim. However, these chemicals can be dangerous to people and the planet if you don’t dispose of them safely.
Prevent putting the planet and your safety at risk! Instead, understand the eco-friendly ways to dispose of pool chemicals this summer.
Avoid Pouring Chemicals in the Trash, Down the Drain, or on the Grass
You may think the best ways to say goodbye to old pool chemicals are dumping them in the trash, pouring them down the sink, or splashing them into the grass. However, though convenient, each of these methods is incredibly dangerous for the environment.
Tossing chemicals in undesignated locations can lead to groundwater and soil contamination. Plants around your yard could die, and your home’s water supply could become contaminated. Additionally, you risk unknowingly making dangerous chemical combinations. These combinations could emit poisonous gases or cause explosions, fires, and serious health complications.
Dispose of Chemicals Through HHW Programs
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes various household products as extremely dangerous, meaning you can’t dispose of them in the usual manners described above. Such products include oil, paint, batteries, and, of course, cleaning products such as pool chemicals.
The EPA suggests disposing of these items through a household hazardous waste (HHW) program. Remember to check your local HHW program requirements to establish when you can dispose of these chemicals safely. There might be designated days when the program will pick up the waste from your home or days when you can take the substances to a disposal location.
HHW services are specially trained to handle these materials. Rather than put yourself in harm’s way or pollute the earth, HHW programs have the proper tools and skills to keep the planet safe.
To safely care for your pools in Portland, Oregon, you should follow these eco-friendly ways to dispose of pool chemicals. Protecting the environment and your safety is crucial. When you comply with these steps, you’ll have a safe and fun environment to swim in this summer.
