What Kind of Items Are Prohibited From Being Junked and Why?
Just like with regular waste trash bins, there are things you can’t toss in with the rest of your junk. Certain items are restricted or require special treatment to be thrown away, so they can’t be grouped in with the rest of your junk.
When you’re using a dumpster for a mass junk haul, it’s crucial to keep in mind what can and cannot be thrown in. Here are a few common items.
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Liquids
You shouldn’t put any liquids in a dumpster as many liquids require special processing. Things like old paint, grease, oil, or chemicals all have unique requirements and can’t be tossed in with regular junk.
Depending on the type of liquid you want to throw out, there are different procedures to follow. For example, mechanic shops may have a place for you to dump your old grease and oil, but throwing away paint depends on what type of paint it is.
A quick Google search can help you figure out the proper way to dispose of your liquids, and if you’re ever in doubt, you can call and ask our dumpster company.
Batteries
Small batteries such as AA or AAA are fine, but you should never throw large batteries in a dumpster. Car batteries and other large batteries contain caustic chemicals which can harm the environment. Instead of throwing them away, find a recycling center. If you have a lot of household batteries to toss as well, you can take them along with you and recycle all your batteries at once.
Light Bulbs
Some light bulbs contain harmful chemicals such as fluorescent and CFL. This requires special treatment, so don’t just toss light bulbs in with your regular trash. Even regular bulbs without chemicals can be a problem if they break and shatter, so it’s always best to dispose of them properly and not in a dumpster.
Yard Waste
Quite often, yard waste can be used in compost. Even if it can’t, it shouldn’t be lumped in with regular junk. Instead, yard waste should be separated so that it can be taken to the right facility as it won’t be treated in the same fashion as traditional junk. Some companies may still pick it up for you, but they may require it to be put in a separate bag or container to avoid contaminating the junk.
Treated Wood
Wood that’s treated with harmful preservatives is not allowed in dumpsters. This includes railroad ties and telephone poles, though may extend to other landscaping woods. If you have wood that was treated to avoid weather damage or aren’t sure, set it aside and don’t throw it in with the rest of your junk.
Appliances
While the appliances themselves aren’t problematic, many of them contain chemicals and liquids. As such, it’s easiest to just set all appliances aside until you can deliver them to the right processing facility. If you can remove all parts that contain hazardous liquids, such as freon, then the appliance may be added to the rest of your junk.
When removing the hazardous parts, you’ll need to contact a professional to do it safely. They’ll need to ensure that all traces of the chemical are removed before the appliance can be accepted with the rest of your junk. Otherwise, it cannot be taken.
Electronics
Many electronics can be recycled or refurbished for future use. Even if they’re beyond refurbishment, you’ll still need to contact your local Waste Management company about picking up e-waste, as many electronics contain mercury or hazardous liquids that can’t be thrown out.
Conclusion
While there are many items that can’t be thrown out with your junk, there are always ways to get rid of them. You may need to contact a nearby recycling center or do a quick Google search about how you should treat certain items, but it is possible. Dumpster companies like us can help further guide you on what can and cannot be dumped, so don’t hesitate to give us a call!
Alan De La O was highly academical in high school. Having taken over 14 college courses throughout his high school journey, college was his destiny. However, while in high school he learned to work in the construction industry as a carpenter and painter and enjoyed swinging a hammer and painting walls more than solving equations. He slowly started losing interest in college, especially after seeing the tuition costs. Having worked in the construction industry for over 2 years he decided to take a risk and start a business, right after high school, along with his brother Juan De La O and help those in the construction industry along with homeowners. This is where World of Dumpsters was born.