6 Things You Shouldn't Put In Your Roll-Off Dumpster

Whether you're cleaning out a small garage or cleaning up throughout a major home renovation, having a roll-off dumpster makes it much easier to get rid of unwanted waste and debris. However, there's a limit to what you can dispose of using your rented dumpster. The following takes a look at a few items that your dumpster rental provider doesn't want to see.

#1: Batteries

Whether it's lead-acid car batteries, lithium-ion battery packs or even the usual AA and AAA-size alkaline batteries found in small devices, there's a good chance your dumpster rental provider won't allow them in their roll-off dumpsters. The often-corrosive contents inside of the average battery can leak and subsequently damage the dumpster. Certain types of batteries can also pose a serious fire risk.

If you have a large quantity of batteries, large lead-acid car batteries or battery packs to dispose of, you should take them to your nearest recycling center for safe disposal. Small quantities of alkaline batteries can be disposed of in your regular garbage, except in California, where current regulations prohibit battery disposal in household waste.

#2: Electronics

If you're looking to toss that old TV, DVD player or laptop in the dumpster, you may want to think twice. Most states currently prohibit electronic waste from being disposed of in landfills. If you live in a state where "e-waste" recycling laws are in place, then chances are your dumpster rental provider won't allow electronics in their dumpsters.

Instead, you'll want to take all of your old and unwanted electronics to a local recycling center that can recycle electronic goods. If some of your unwanted electronic devices still work, you may also want to consider donating these to charity.

#3: Appliances with Refrigerant

Refrigerators, dehumidifiers and air conditioning units are a no-go for your dumpster if they still contain refrigerant. Given the damage that an intentional release of refrigerant can cause to the ozone layer, federal regulations effectively prohibit disposal of refrigerant-using appliances unless the refrigerant is properly recovered and contained by a trained and certified technician.

#4: Paints and Solvents

Your dumpster rental provider may also prohibit you from throwing away cans full of paint, varnish and solvent, as these items are considered hazardous waste. Old paints, varnish and solvents can potentially leave a mess inside the dumpster, as well as pose environmental issues. You'll want to dispose of these items at your nearest recycling center, instead.

While empty cans that once held latex paint can be tossed along with the rest of your garbage, depending on your local municipality's disposal guidelines, cans that contained oil-based paints should be taken to a recycling center.

#5: Materials Containing Asbestos

It's not uncommon to run across building materials containing asbestos, as it was once commonly used for insulation, fireproofing and a variety of other uses in older buildings. The health risks associated with asbestos makes it very difficult to dispose of unless great care is taken to limit contamination. It's no wonder that most dumpster rental providers list asbestos as a prohibited material.

Instead of disposing of insulation, shingles, wallboard and other materials potentially containing asbestos, it's best to have a certified and licensed asbestos abatement contractor remove those materials in a safe and controlled manner.

#6: Tires

Tires are yet another item that most dumpster rental providers don't want to see in their roll-off dumpsters. Not only do they take up large amounts of space in landfills, but they also contain chemicals that can contribute to soil and groundwater contamination.

Instead of throwing those old tires in the dumpster, you're better off taking them to a recycling or reclamation center that can dispose of or even recycle your tires in a safe and environmentally-friendly manner.

For more information, contact a dumpster rental service like TCM Sweeping and Disposal.

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