Inside Your Garage

Vehicle Maintenance

Service vehicles regularly to help prevent leaks and reduce emissions.
Use a professional car wash when possible.
When washing cars, use minimal amounts of biodegradable, phosphate free detergent. Keep in mind that biodegradable doesn't mean that the product is entirely pollutant-free. It simply means that it takes a shorter amount of time for that product to break down.
Wash cars on grass or gravel in order to allow the materials to filter through the vegetation or soil instead of running off yards, into gutters and down storm drains.
Use water efficient devices on garden hoses. Empty the soap bucket into the toilet or sink instead of streets and gutters.
Baking soda paste is a non-toxic substance which can be used to clean battery heads, cable clamps, and chrome. Add a mild, biodegradable dish washing soap to the paste to clean wheels and tires. White vinegar or lemon juice mixed with water works well for cleaning windows.
To keep air conditioning seals from cracking and leaking freon, run the air conditioner at least once every 2 weeks.

Disposal Practices

Never dispose of gasoline, used oil, or other automotive products in the gutters, storm drains, sinks or toilets. Take these products to a facility that recycles hazardous waste. For information about hazardous waste recycling, call Polk County Solid Waste at 863-284-4319.
Absorb any spills in the garage with kitty litter, sawdust or corn meal. Dispose of the materials from a small spill by placing them in a plastic bag and throwing them in the trash.
When buying a new car battery, take the old one to the retailer. Florida law requires retailers to accept them. Any local hazardous waste collection events will also take them.
Car wax and automotive fluids have long shelf lives. Store them in airtight containers and use them completely instead of disposing of them.