Pool Chemical Disposal

Rumpke reminds residents that items like pool chemicals and other hazardous waste don't belong in the trash or recycling. Pool chemicals are considered a household hazardous waste, which requires special handling. According to Federal law, Rumpke is not permitted to accept pool chemicals and any item identified as hazardous. 

Pool Chemicals Pose Serious Dangers

Pool chemicals, such as chlorine, bromine, pH adjusters, algaecides, and clarifiers are designed to keep the water clean and balanced. However, once these chemicals have served their purpose or reached their expiration dates, they can become hazardous substances if not disposed of with care.

Please Dispose of With Care

Pool chemicals are poisonous, flammable, explosive and—understandably—people don’t want to keep them around the house. 

When mixed with other household items in a garbage truck, the combination can be extremely dangerous, especially to the driver.

Pool chemicals, such as chlorine, are considered to be a household hazardous waste and should be disposed of as such. Even a small amount of these chemicals mixed with household waste in the back of a garbage truck can create a dangerous combination.

Across the country, garbage truck fires are caused every year by pool chemicals that are improperly placed in the trash, including Rumpke trucks.

Pool Chemical Disposal Tips

Below are some tips to keep pool owners and trash truck drivers safe this summer:

• If an item is labeled “Danger” or “Poison,” do not put it in the trash or recycling. Also, do not pour extra chemicals down a drain, especially if it leads to a septic tank.
• Ask your local pool store if they are able to dispose of pool chemicals for you.
• Review Rumpke’s Hazardous Waste guidelines. 
• Check with your solid waste district to find a local household hazardous waste facility in your area.