Coolant Catch Pan: Separate Or Same?

Whether you need a separate catch pan for coolant depends on your specific use case. Some people use the same catch pan for multiple types of fluids, such as coolant and oil, and simply clean the pan after each use. However, others recommend using separate pans for different fluids, especially for coolant, as it can be difficult to dispose of coolant mixed with other fluids. Additionally, coolant mixed with oil cannot be recycled in some places.

The benefits of using a coolant catcher

Using a separate coolant catcher or drain pan for coolant offers several benefits and is generally recommended. Here are some advantages of using a dedicated coolant catcher:

Safety

By using a separate coolant catcher, you can help keep your shop floor or garage free of slippery coolant spills. This reduces the risk of accidents and creates a safer working environment for mechanics and technicians.

Efficiency

A dedicated coolant catcher can speed up the draining process and reduce cleanup time. Some catchers feature anti-splash designs, such as baffles or wide lips, to prevent spills and splashes, making the draining process more efficient and mess-free.

Compliance

Using a coolant catcher can make it easier to securely capture and dispose of coolant, ensuring compliance with regulations. Proper disposal of coolant is essential for environmental protection.

Cost Savings

The time saved by using a coolant catcher can result in cost savings for your business. With reduced cleanup time and increased efficiency, your shop can complete more work orders and improve productivity.

Space-Saving

Some coolant catchers have a stackable design, allowing you to save space in your garage or shop. This feature is especially useful if you need to store multiple pans.

In conclusion, using a separate coolant catcher offers safety, efficiency, compliance, and cost benefits. It helps create a safer, more productive workspace while also ensuring responsible coolant disposal.

The importance of separating different types of fluids when draining

When draining fluids, it is important to separate the different types to ensure effective disposal and reuse. Mixing different fluids can lead to contamination and make it difficult to recycle or dispose of them properly. For example, coolant mixed with oil cannot be recycled in some places, and shops may charge extra for waste oil with excessive coolant in it.

Using separate catch pans or drain pans for each type of fluid is a good way to keep them separated. This allows for easier disposal and can also help to prevent accidents, as mixing certain fluids can create safety hazards. For instance, having a separate catch pan for coolant can help keep shop floors free of slippery fluids.

The type of separation process required depends on the specific fluids being dealt with. In some cases, a complete separation may be needed to purify a certain component fully. In other cases, an incomplete separation may be sufficient, resulting in a mixture of substances rather than pure constituents. For instance, oil refining is an example of an incomplete separation technique, where crude oil is separated into mixtures such as natural gas, gasoline, and chemical feedstocks.

In addition to environmental and safety considerations, separating different types of fluids when draining can also have economic benefits. By keeping fluids separate, you may be able to reuse them, reducing the need to purchase new ones. This can be especially important for businesses, as it can help to keep costs down. Overall, separating different types of fluids when draining is important for maintaining safety, complying with regulations, reducing costs, and facilitating proper disposal and recycling.

The disposal of coolant and other fluids

The disposal of automotive fluids should be done with care to avoid environmental contamination and harm to animals. Many state and local governments classify used automotive fluids as hazardous waste, and improper disposal of these fluids can contaminate drinking water.

Automotive fluids such as transmission fluid, power steering fluid, gear oil, motor oil, and antifreeze can be recycled into new fluids. Fuel and other flammable liquids are also considered hazardous waste and must be stored and disposed of properly, but they too can often be recycled.

To dispose of automotive fluids, place each fluid in a separate container for transportation to a disposal or recycling centre. Some locations will not accept fluids that have been contaminated with other fluids. Most communities have procedures for disposing of hazardous waste, and repair facilities are required by law to dispose of the material safely. Auto parts stores may also accept used motor oil, transmission fluid, and other automotive fluids for recycling or disposal, but requirements vary.

Antifreeze, in particular, requires careful handling. It is toxic to most living things, and its sweet odour and taste make it attractive to animals and small children. It is important to clean up spills immediately and store antifreeze in a safe, closable container.

The different types of drain pans available

While it is not a requirement to have a separate catch pan for coolant, it is recommended for safety reasons and to avoid flooding. Here is an overview of the different types of drain pans available:

Appliance Drain Pans

Appliance drain pans are typically made from metal or plastic and installed under appliances to prevent leaks and resulting damage to the building. They are commonly used for washing machines, especially if located on the second floor or above living spaces. These pans are equipped with a drain hole and can be connected to the main drain line or a dedicated exterior drain line.

Drip and Drain Pans

These pans are used to catch fluids such as oil, coolant, and other automotive fluids. They come in various sizes and materials, including polypropylene and polyethylene. Some have features like swivel casters and built-in hand grips for easy manoeuvrability and emptying.

Shower Pans

Shower pans, also known as shower trays, form the base of the shower and contain the drain. They are designed to be strong, durable, and comfortable underfoot. Shower pans come in various materials, including:

• Fiberglass and acrylic: Lightweight, durable, easy to install, and low-cost.
• Stainless steel: Robust, corrosion-resistant, easy to clean, but less popular due to aesthetics.
• Concrete: Long-lasting, easy to maintain, and inexpensive but heavy and prone to moisture retention.
• Porcelain: Strong and durable but prone to scratches and chips, expensive, and complex to install.
• Natural stone: Custom-made, luxurious, durable, but very expensive and require regular maintenance.
• Tiled: Offer colour and style variations but are more difficult to clean and prone to leaks.
• Solid surface: Robust, stylish, easy to install, waterproof, and affordable.

In summary, the type of drain pan you choose depends on your specific needs and applications. Appliance drain pans are suitable for leak protection, drip and drain pans are ideal for catching automotive fluids, and shower pans provide a functional and aesthetic base for your shower.

Testimonials for coolant drain pans

Testimonials for the Coolant Catcher

"ONE OF THE BEST SHOP TOOLS WE'VE EVER HAD. MY GUYS LOVE IT." Andy Hagin, Owner Martinez, CA Hagin's Automotive

"I REALLY LIKE THE COOLANT CATCHER, IT WORKS GREAT!" Pauk Krueger, Grants Pass, Oregon Star Automotive

"I used your Coolant Catcher to put an aluminium radiator in my 55 Chevy…Your product is awesome!!!! No mess, No splash! I dropped a tool and it was easy to retrieve without being soaked in coolant. Thanks again for a great product!" Darrin C., Spokane, Washington

"The Coolant Catcher helps my technicians get more work done and cuts down on clean-up time around the shop." Matt Weathers, Owner Central Automotive Service Center Walnut Creek, CA

"Lead Mechanic is loving his Coolant Catcher. Says you thought of everything. Was worried that draining it would be hard but the low spot is perfect. Catches all the coolant! He had to routinely clean up spills and that has not been the case since he started using it. Fantastic design and customer service. Thanks!" Barb H., Crestwood, KY

Testimonials for Proformance Supply

"Your effective online store stocks the shop tools I need and they ship my orders within 24 hours, saving me valuable time." Emmanuel, Vehicle Restoration Hobbyist from Waco, TX

"Thank you for providing courteous customer service. You have earned my business. I will be placing more orders with Proformance." Arnold Rodriguez, Mechanic Southern California

Frequently asked questions