Washing Your Car

When we wash our cars on the street, oil and soapy water runs into the gutter, down the storm drain and straight to the creeks and ocean. Pollutants associated with wash water include dirt, oil, fuel residues, metals, paint and any cleaners used, such as acid, solvent, detergents or degreasers. Biochemical processes break down pollution in the water, using oxygen that aquatic organisms need to survive.

 
Where to Wash Your Car

1. Wash your car at a commercial car wash where the water is collected and treated.

2. If you wash your vehicle at home, wash it on grass, gravel, or other permeable surface to absorb the water, and do not let wash water reach the street.

3. If you have no suitable area to wash your car, look for an alternative location. Perhaps your friends or neighbors have a suitable area you can use.

When You Wash Your Car

1. Use a shutoff nozzle on your hose or a bucket to save water.

2. Use biodegradeable soaps or use detergents and soaps sparingly. Better still, just use plain water, a coarse sponge, and a little elbow grease.

3. Do not dump excess water on the driveway, in the gutter, or down the storm drain. Leftover water should be poured down a household sink or toilet so that it will flow to the wastewater treatment plant. Or dispose of waste water onto a garden or lawn.

Please refer to our Automotive Brochure for more information.

What can individual residents do to reduce their contribution to water pollution? According to a new study, not washing your car in your driveway should be at the top of your list.