Frequently asked questions
The questions people bring to UES, answered plainly. Every answer links to the page with the full details.
We reply the same business day. No account needed to ask.
About your used oil
What happens to my used oil after UES collects it?
It's tested for non-hazardous status under EPA regulation 40 CFR Part 279. Used oil that's suitable for it is re-refined into new base oil, the base ingredient of new lubricants. Oil that isn't suitable for re-refining is put to use as an industrial fuel oil. The Re-Refinery page shows the whole journey.
What is the benefit of re-refining?
Base oil does not wear out, so used oil can be re-refined more than once and a non-renewable resource stays in use. The U.S. EPA has estimated that re-refining used oil takes only about one-third the energy of refining crude oil to lubricant quality.
Can used oil be mixed with other materials?
No. Mixing used oil with brake cleaners, solvents or paint wastes can turn the whole batch into hazardous waste. Keep it separate from antifreeze and oily water too, in an approved, labeled container. The Environmental page has the full storage rules.
How should I store it between pickups?
Label every container "Used Oil", keep containers and tanks in good condition, and keep chlorinated solvents out. The Used Oil page covers containers and scheduling.
About UES
Who is UES?
Universal Environmental Services collects used oil and other waste streams from businesses in 28 states, and is part of Avista Oil, which also operates re-refineries in Germany and Denmark. The UES re-refinery in Peachtree City, Ga., processes 90 million gallons of used oil a year. The About page has the rest.
What else does UES collect?
Antifreeze, oily wastewater, used oil filters, absorbents, parts washer fluids, fluorescent bulbs, and hazardous and special waste. The Services page lists all nine with their details.
Does UES collect and manage hazardous waste?
Yes. The Hazardous & Special Waste Division handles hazardous, non-hazardous and special waste for businesses across the country, managed from the first site visit to final disposal. The division's page has the details.
Do-it-yourself oil
If you change your own oil at home, take it to an auto parts store, a city recycling center, or a Walmart Supercenter TLE department. Directories like Earth911 list the recycling centers near you.
Tell us what you need handled
Give us the basics, even if you're not sure which service you need. We'll review it and tell you what comes next.
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