The Dos and Don’ts of Filling a Dumpster

If you’re planning to rent a dumpster, it’s important to know how to fill it properly to maximize its use and avoid any issues. Whether you’re doing a home renovation, decluttering your house, or cleaning up a construction site, filling a dumpster requires some considerations. Here are the dos and don’ts of filling a dumpster.

Dos:

Know What You Can and Cannot Dispose Of in a Dumpster

Different states and municipalities have specific regulations on what you can put in a dumpster. Common prohibited items include hazardous materials, chemicals, electronics, and appliances. Contact your dumpster rental company to know their policies and avoid any fines or penalties.

Plan Ahead

Determine the size of the dumpster you need based on the amount of debris you’ll generate. Also, choose the right location for the dumpster. Make sure there’s enough space for the dumpster truck to maneuver during delivery and pickup.

Sort Your Waste

Segregate your waste into categories, such as wood, metal, plastic, and organic waste. This will make it easier for you to dispose of them properly and reduce the risk of overloading the dumpster with heavy or bulky items.

Compact the Waste

Use a sledgehammer or other heavy tools to break down large items, such as furniture or cabinets, and stack them neatly inside the dumpster. You should also flatten boxes to make more room. This will create more space for other items and save you money on additional dumpster rentals.

Fill the Dumpster Evenly

Distribute the weight of the waste evenly across the dumpster to prevent it from tilting or toppling over. Start by placing heavy items at the bottom and layering smaller and lighter items on top. This will also make it easier to remove the waste during pickup.

Don’ts:

Overfill the Dumpster

Overloading the dumpster beyond its capacity is not only illegal but also dangerous. It can cause the dumpster to tip over, damage property or injure people. Follow the weight limit and fill line indicated on the dumpster.

Place Hazardous Materials in the Dumpster

As mentioned earlier, hazardous materials, such as asbestos, chemicals, and batteries, are not allowed in dumpsters. These items require special disposal methods to protect the environment and human health.

Throw Loose Debris Inside the Dumpster

Loose debris, such as dirt, rocks, or leaves, can fly out of the dumpster during transport and cause accidents. Bag or containerize the debris before putting it in the dumpster.

Mix Different Types of Waste

Mixing different types of waste can contaminate recyclable materials and make them unsuitable for recycling. Separate hazardous, organic, and recyclable waste to ensure proper disposal and reduce your environmental impact.

Block the Dumpster’s Access

Avoid placing the dumpster in a location that blocks driveways, entrances, or exits. This can disrupt traffic flow and cause inconvenience to other people. Also, keep the area around the dumpster clear of obstacles or debris.

Takeaway

Filling a dumpster requires some planning and caution to avoid any issues or penalties. Follow the dos and don’ts above to ensure a safe and efficient waste disposal process. Remember that responsible waste management is not only good for the environment but also for your community and future generations.

FAQ

What happens to the contents of a dumpster?

The contents of your dumpster is picked up by trucks and then sent to landfills where it will be buried underground. Landfill gas escapes through landfill pipes where it will be burned off at an incinerator or power plants.

What is another name for a roll-off dumpster?

Other names for roll-off dumpsters include roll-off containers, open-top containers, skips, or dumpster rentals when you rent a dumpster.

Original Source: The Dos and Don’ts of Filling a Dumpster