Protecting the Environment (Going "Green")

Hy-Tek Truck & Auto includes a recycling and environmental program within their facility to protect both the environment and the safety of our employees. Vehicle repair involves handling many different waste materials, some of which may be toxic if not handled properly. The increased costs of metal and petroleum based products make it more cost-effective to recycle, therefore recycling is a large segment of the auto industry today. We recycle product both on and off site.

Air Conditioning Refrigerants

Many are not aware of the environmental effects of refrigerants. The original refrigerant, R-12, was found to be harmful to the earth's ozone layer and was eventually phased out in the mid-90s. The R-12 was replaced with a refrigerant termed R134a. This refrigerant is more ozone safe, but is a greenhouse gas that can also contribute to global warming. Beacuse of this high gas rating, the European Union is mandating the phase out of R134a for a yet to be determined refrigerant for new models beginning in approximately 2011 or 2012. Hy-Tek has always recovered and recycled both of these refrigerants and will continue to do so with any new refrigerants to futher protect the Earth's ozone layer.

Solvents

All of our parts-washing fluids and various cleaners are water-based rather than solvent type cleaners, which are safe for employees and can easily be disposed without harmful effects to the environment.

Used Auto Parts

The majority of used automotive electrical parts and some brake parts are sent back to the manufacturer to be rebuilt. All used batteries are returned to the manufacturer as well. Other used parts containing steel, aluminum or other metals are collected and sent to a recycler.

Waste Oil/Antifreeze

Our waste oil is held in approved waste tanks for use during the winter months to heat the shop. All filters are thoroughly drained for proper disposal.

Our waste antifreeze is picked up by an approved recycling company.

Federal Law prohibits improper disposal. Any hazardous waste that cannot be recycled is removed by companies licensed to properly dispose of such waste.

Waste Tires

We do not allow our used tires to accumulate, they are picked up by a tire recycling company on a routine basis where they are shredded and used for a variety of new products. Not one tire from our shop finds its way to a landfill!