How to Clean Up a Heating Oil Spill

Heating oil spills can be easily managed if they are dealt with immediately. This article explains the correct method to use when heating oil is spilled inside a home on hard, flat flooring. If heating oil is spilled in carpet, the carpet must be removed and replaced. If heating oil is spilled outside, in soil, or near water, these are more serious spills that may require the help of professionals to clean up safely and effectively. By following these procedures as outlined, a heating oil spill can be cleaned up and removed quickly.

Things You'll Need

• Absorbing material
• Broom
• Dust pan
• Metal garbage can
• Garbage can liner
• Water
• Degreasing cleaner

Instructions

1. Keep flames and heat sources away from the spilled heating oil. Open the nearest windows and doors to allow for adequate ventilation in the spill area. Do not allow pets or people to walk through the spill site and track the oil throughout the house.

2. Pour an oil absorbing product over the spilled oil. Possible products include Absorb-It and some powdered laundry detergents. Allow the oil absorbing product to sit on the oil spill for fifteen to twenty minutes to maximize absorption.

3. Sweep the contaminated absorbent material with a broom and a dust pan and place the contaminated material in a metal garbage can lined with a plastic garbage can liner to hold in the oil fumes. After all of the absorbing material is swept up, pack the plastic liner into the metal garbage can liner and cover the can with a metal lid.

4. Take the contaminated absorbing material to a local hazardous waste disposal unit.

5. Remove heating fuel oil residue from the floor with water and a degreaser cleaning solvent.

References

• Homeowner Oil Spill Cleanup Guide
• Managing Fuel Oil Spills: Home Cleanup