How you store your used cooking oil is an important safety factor for any restaurant or commercial kitchen.
At Allied Renewal, we know that cooking oil waste management and disposal can not only be a nuisance, but also a hazard for the workplace. From properly storing used cooking oil to knowing when it’s time for disposal, our team at Allied Renewal is here to help you navigate used cooking oil recycling every step of the way.
So, what kind of storage containers are best for your business?
Cooking Oil Collection Services
Best Used Cooking Oil Containers
Restaurants and food services establishments can use a variety of containers depending on the type of business and available space. We recommend metal or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids. Additionally, used oil can be stored in a specially-designed oil storage tank. The biggest thing to keep in mind is making sure your containers are properly labeled so you don’t confuse your “new” oil with your “used” oil.
Allied Renewal provides offers a range of specialized containers, tanks and drums for the storage and collection of your used cooking oil.
Is Container Size Important?
We suggest using a 55-gallon plastic drum for restaurants with one or two small fryers. For restaurants with more than two fryers, we suggest a 275-gallon secured lid metal container. Some locations may qualify for a vacuum system depending on volume and output needs. These are plumed into the building, powered by an electric pump/motor, and usually between 500–750 gallons for high output customers.
Oil Storage Location
We recommend storing these containers separate in a cool, dry, secure place safely away from workers and to minimize unsightliness. However, you also want to make sure that the location is close enough that it’s safe and easy for employees to transfer the oil into the container.
Location ideas can depend on the size of your storage needs:
- Medium-sized drums (55 gallons) could be stored in a corner or outside of the back door to be easily accessed by staff
- Larger secured tanks (275 gallons) usually stored by the garbage corral or other available space in an accessible area for the staff
- Vacuum systems (500–750 gallons) usually for high output volume locations (typically more convenient for larger volume locations such as seafood restaurants, etc.)
Keeping Your Oil Safe
While indoor containers are often used, sometimes outdoor storage is the best option. In this case, it’s ideal to have a lock on your used oil container (yes, sometimes people steal used oil). Because of this, we recommend locking your outdoor container for maximum protection.
Choosing the right oil container can keep your restaurant running smoothly and your employees (and used cooking oil) safe.
Looking for a sustainable way to remove your restaurant cooking oil? Reach out to our friendly team at Allied Renewal to learn more about how we can support your cooking oil recycling needs.
