When it comes to parts cleaning, not all chemistries are created equal—and the choice between aqueous and solvent-based cleaners can significantly impact your facility’s performance, safety, and compliance. Whether you’re running an automotive shop, manufacturing line, or industrial maintenance operation, understanding the strengths and regulatory considerations of each option is key to choosing the best fit for your operation.
So how do you decide? Let’s break it down.
Aqueous Chemistries: Safe, Sustainable, and Compliance-Friendly
Aqueous cleaners are water-based solutions formulated with detergents and other non-hazardous ingredients. They’re known for being:
Safer for workers – Non-flammable and low toxicity
Easier to manage – Often don’t count toward hazardous waste generator status
Environmentally responsible – Lower VOCs and reduced regulatory risk
Effective for general-purpose cleaning – Especially when combined with heat and agitation
Compliance Advantages
Federal and state regulations make aqueous chemistries especially attractive. Because many aqueous solutions are non-hazardous, used fluid may not require hazardous waste disposal, helping you maintain a lower EPA generator status. That means fewer regulations, lower disposal costs, and simplified recordkeeping.
Aqueous chemistries also typically have lower VOC content, making them a good fit for facilities operating in regions with strict air quality standards, such as California or New York.
Solvent Chemistries: High-Powered Performance with a Compliance Tradeoff
Solvent-based cleaners are hydrocarbon or chlorinated solutions that offer superior degreasing power, making them the go-to choice for:
Removing heavy oils, tars, and carbon
Precision cleaning on metal parts
Applications where quick drying is needed
Cleaning where water could cause corrosion or residue
Compliance Considerations
The downside? Many solvents are classified as hazardous waste after use. This affects your EPA generator status, triggers RCRA regulations, and may increase your disposal and reporting requirements. You’ll also need to follow OSHA standards for flammable materials and local air permits if VOC levels are high.
That said, if your facility is equipped to manage these requirements and needs top-tier cleaning strength, solvents still play a valuable role.
Choosing What’s Right for You
The best chemistry depends on your operational priorities:
If your goal is to reduce waste, lower generator status, and stay ahead of regulations, aqueous solutions are likely your best bet.
If your operation demands maximum cleaning power for high-contamination parts, solvent-based products may be worth the added compliance effort.
Many facilities benefit from a hybrid approach—using aqueous chemistries for general cleaning and solvents for targeted, heavy-duty jobs. Crystal Clean can help assess your needs and recommend the right mix of products and services for your operation.
Crystal Clean Can Help You Make the Switch
Whether you’re considering a switch to aqueous chemistries or looking to optimize your solvent program, Crystal Clean has the expertise, service, and product line to support your goals. We offer:
Safer, high-performance aqueous solutions
Non-chlorinated solvents with improved regulatory profiles
Waste pickup, documentation, and disposal support
Guidance on maintaining or lowering your EPA generator status
Let’s work together to create a cleaning program that fits your facility—and your compliance strategy.
Not all regulated waste is the same. What sets APHIS waste apart is its origin. Any waste that has traveled to or originated outside of the United States and Canada within the past two years is considered APHIS waste.
The reason for this classification is straightforward but critical. Foreign food products and packaging materials can carry pests, plant diseases, or contaminants that pose risks to U.S. agriculture, ecosystems, and even public health. To prevent these threats, the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has strict rules for how this waste must be handled and disposed of.
What Can Be Considered APHIS Waste?
When most people hear “regulated waste,” they think of hazardous chemicals or medical byproducts. APHIS waste is different because it often looks ordinary which is why it is important to bring attention to what it is. Any item that came into contact with imported food or beverages may be classified as APHIS waste.
This includes:
Packaging materials like wrappers, cartons, and cans.
Utensils, napkins, and disposable tableware that touched foreign food.
Containers or bottles that once held beverages.
A key point to remember: once this material is mixed with regular trash, the entire batch becomes contaminated and must be treated as APHIS waste. This makes careful segregation essential in airports, shipping facilities, and businesses that handle imported products.
How APHIS Waste Must be Managed
Unlike ordinary garbage, APHIS waste cannot simply be placed in a dumpster and hauled away. Regulations require that it be collected and managed by trained professionals to ensure safety and compliance.
The standards include:
Tight, covered, and leak-proof containers to prevent leakage or accidental exposure.
Clearly marked receptacles labeled as regulated waste to avoid confusion with other trash streams.
Final treatment by incineration or sterilization, ensuring that any potential pests, diseases, or contaminants are destroyed before disposal.
These requirements are not optional and are mandatory steps designed to protect agriculture and prevent the accidental introduction of invasive species or pathogens.
Why Professional Disposal Matters
Failing to comply with APHIS regulations can result in severe consequences, including fines, legal penalties, and environmental damage. Businesses that manage imported goods such as airlines, shipping companies, and logistics providers are especially at risk if proper waste practices are not followed.
By working with a trusted waste management provider, organizations gain:
Peace of mind, knowing their operations meet government requirements.
Regulatory compliance with USDA APHIS standards.
Secure, reliable collection and disposal using approved methods.
Reduced liability risks, protecting both brand reputation and the environment.
The Crystal Clean Advantage
At Crystal Clean, we provide a full-service solution for APHIS waste. From supplying compliant containers to transporting waste securely and ensuring final treatment by incineration or sterilization, our trained teams handle every step.
We know that compliance is more than a box to check, it’s about safeguarding agriculture, trade, and communities. By choosing Crystal Clean, businesses gain a partner that combines regulatory expertise with dependable service, helping them focus on operations while staying fully compliant.
Protect your business and community. Trust Crystal Clean for your regulated waste needs.
Keeping facilities safe, compliant, and efficient is no small task. From mills and plants to refineries and construction sites, cleanliness plays a key role in protecting equipment, employees, and productivity. That’s where hydroblasting comes in. This powerful, eco-friendly cleaning method has quickly become a go-to solution for companies that want thorough results without compromising safety or the environment.
What Is Hydroblasting?
At its core, hydroblasting uses nothing more than high-pressure water to remove unwanted buildup. By adjusting pressure and specialized nozzles, trained operators can strip away paint, rust, concrete, or stubborn debris without damaging the underlying surface. Because it relies solely on water, hydroblasting avoids the need for harsh chemicals and reduces the risks associated with abrasive cleaning methods.
A typical process begins with assessing the surface and selecting the right pressure and equipment. Protective barriers may be set up to control runoff, followed by precise water jetting to clean or remove material. Once complete, the area is inspected to ensure everything has been cleared. Finally, any removed materials are responsibly collected and disposed of, keeping operations clean and compliant.
The Equipment Behind the Process
Hydroblasting is powered by pumps capable of producing pressures up to 20,000 PSI. Depending on the project, equipment can range from handheld units to truck-mounted systems for large-scale work. Operators often use hydroblast guns connected to reinforced hoses, allowing them to adjust water pressure and direction with precision. For more complex or confined spaces, automated systems and robotic tools can take over — providing accuracy, consistency, and an added layer of safety by reducing the need for direct worker involvement.
Where Hydroblasting Makes a Difference
Few cleaning methods are as versatile as hydroblasting. Manufacturing facilities use it to clear residue from tanks, piping, and machinery. Construction and infrastructure projects rely on it for surface preparation, ensuring coatings adhere properly and repairs last longer. In some cases, hydroblasting is even used for controlled concrete removal, offering a quieter, dust-free alternative to jackhammers and other mechanical methods.
Because it can reach into small slots, ducts, and tubing, hydroblasting also excels at maintaining critical systems like heat exchangers and condensers. Routine services help prevent buildup that could otherwise reduce efficiency, cause downtime, or shorten equipment life.
Benefits Beyond Clean Surfaces
The advantages of hydroblasting go far beyond spotless equipment. It reduces the need for chemical cleaners, making it better for the environment and safer for employees. By capturing debris and controlling runoff, it also minimizes airborne particles that can harm air quality. And because it’s both fast and precise, hydroblasting helps reduce downtime, allowing operations to return to full capacity more quickly.
Partnering with Crystal Clean
At Crystal Clean, we view hydroblasting not just as a service, but as a way to help our customers protect their people, their assets, and their reputation. Our team combines advanced equipment with deep expertise to deliver results you can count on — whether it’s routine maintenance, surface preparation, or specialized cleaning challenges.
When you choose Crystal Clean, you’re choosing a partner committed to safety, compliance, and environmental responsibility. If you’re curious about how hydroblasting can benefit your facility, our team is here to share insights and create a solution tailored to your needs.
Let’s start the conversation — together, we’ll keep your operations clean, compliant, and running at their best.
Managing hazardous waste today requires more than a decade-old checklist. It demands a system built upon safety, sustainability, and reliable partners to give you confidence you’re prepared for your next audit.
Industrial waste management has become more complex, not less. Regulations are evolving and expectations are higher from stakeholders to improve corporate sustainability.
The companies succeeding today treat hazardous waste management as a core part of their operations, and a vital part of what they do to protect their business, their customers, and the environment they live and work in. Companies with proven waste programs don’t scramble when it’s time for the next compliance audit. They rely on trusted systems and proven partners to ensure compliance from cradle-to-grave.
This guide outlines what proper hazardous waste disposal looks like based on real-world operations. Whether you manage a single location or a nationwide footprint, this approach can help reduce risks, improve safety, and support your environmental objectives.
Understanding Hazardous Waste
Hazardous waste isn’t mysterious. The EPA has clearly defined specific characteristics that determine if a waste is hazardous and how it must be handled. The EPA classifies waste as hazardous if it exhibits ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity.
In manufacturing facilities, hazardous waste shows up as spent solvents from parts cleaning, used oils from equipment maintenance, and chemical byproducts from production processes. Automotive operations generate used antifreeze, used oil, or spent solvents. Each industry creates distinct waste profiles, but the management principles remain consistent.
The EPA’s listed hazardous wastes catalogs hundreds of listed hazardous wastes. Some are hazardous because of the type of operation that creates them (F-list and K-list wastes), some are pure chemical formulations considered hazardous (P-list and U-list wastes) and others become hazardous when they exhibit certain properties (characteristic wastes). Understanding which category your waste falls into determines your regulatory obligations under RCRA. Most facilities generate multiple waste streams, and each stream requires separate handling protocols, distinct storage requirements, and specific disposal methods.
The complexity multiplies when you operate across state lines. While federal RCRA standards provide the baseline, stricter regulations may have been implemented at the state level, such as in California or Connecticut. A waste stream that’s non-hazardous federally might be regulated as hazardous in your state. Operations with multiple facilities can’t assume one approach works everywhere.
The Risks of Improper Hazardous Waste Disposal
Following proper disposal protocols isn’t just regulatory. It’s how you keep your workforce, your community, and your business safe. Improper handling of waste can lead to long-term environmental damage that may take decades to remediate.
The risk of pollution and harm to people and the environment is why CERCLA exists. Agencies regularly inspect facilities, review manifests, and assess disposal practices to reduce risk, protect workers, and keep the environment clean from pollution. Regulatory violations often result in formal notices, corrective actions, and potential legal or financial penalties.
The consequences can be significant, not just for a business, but also for workers, community members, and the local environment. Environmental responsibility is more vital than ever, and having a reliable partner on your side to help you navigate hazardous waste disposal with confidence.
Steps to Properly Dispose of Hazardous Waste
1. IDENTIFY AND CLASSIFY WASTE
Accurate waste characterization starts with understanding how each waste stream is generated. Use your knowledge of equipment, chemicals, and processes to determine if your waste is listed by the EPA or exhibits hazardous characteristics. This forms the basis for the initial classification, matching materials against the EPA’s listed wastes and testing characteristic waste streams regularly or whenever any process changes.
Documentation is key in this step. Inspectors expect to see what information supports your classifications. They want to see SDSs, references to specific EPA listings, and test results showing specific characterizations.
2. LABEL AND STORE SAFELY
Storage and labeling requirements exist to prevent safety incidents. For example, containers must be appropriate for the waste type. Certain solvents can degrade plastic and some acids may corrode metal. Using the proper container reduces spill risks and keeps the workplace safe.
Labeling is also a vital step to ensure incompatible wastes are not mixed by accident. Acids and bases can’t share space, and oxidizers need separation from organics. At a minimum, containers should clearly be labeled as hazardous waste with the contents in the container and the accumulation start date.
Accumulation time limits are also important to follow. Large quantity generators have a 90-day storage period, and small quantity generators have a 180-day storage period. Secondary containment options, such as spill pallets or berms, also reduce the risk of spills and it is important to plan for leaks before they happen.
3. CHOOSE A TRUSTED SERVICE PROVIDER
When looking for a service provider, it’s important to find a partner that is reliable, has the proper licenses and documentation processes, and is prepared to support you for compliant cradle-to-grave management of hazardous wastes.
Treatment and disposal methods matter, and a knowledgeable partner can help guide you through waste minimization opportunities and identify alternative disposal methods that improve your environmental operations or reduce your generator status. If you’re operating multiple facilities across different regions, having a partner with a nationwide network offers consistent, reliable service from a single source.
4. TRANSPORT AND DISPOSE RESPONSIBLY
Proper transportation and manifest documentation exist to create a reliable paper trail from waste generation to final disposal. Every party signs, every detail is recorded, and you have written proof of compliant disposal.
Manifests aren’t optional paperwork. They’re required documentation that verifies the process was followed compliantly. Whether using paper or electronic manifests, accuracy and retention are key. Auditors will verify waste codes, signatures, and facility permits.
Final disposal methods vary by waste stream. Incineration, landfilling, and other disposal methods all require facilities with appropriate permits and emissions controls. Modern facilities can neutralize acids, recover base oils from spent lubricants, and destroy PFAS compounds that persist through conventional treatment. When you select partners with sophisticated capabilities, you’re contributing to genuine environmental protection rather than simply avoiding violations.
The Role of Sustainable Waste Management
Industrial waste management is transitioning from disposal-focused to resource recovery approaches. This shift is driven by both environmental and economic benefits that support a circular economy, where waste is reduced, reused, or recycled whenever possible.
Resource recovery turns waste into value. Used oil, for example, can be re-refined into high-quality base oils while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 77% compared to virgin production. Solvents can be distilled for reuse. Antifreeze can be reconstituted. Even some hazardous waste streams can be processed into alternative fuels.
Recovery reduces reliance on landfilling and incineration, which can become a concern due to capacity constraints. Stakeholders are taking notes and businesses that report on ESG performance and GHG emissions can see tangible impacts when implementing waste recovery programs.
Common Environmental Compliance Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced operations may have gaps in environmental compliance, not due to intent, but rather from overlooked systems and assumptions.
Manifest errors easily top the list as a common violation. Missing signatures or unreturned forms can disrupt your chain of custody and raise flags during inspections. The solution can be simple, using a tracking system and training staff on proper manifest handling to reduce errors. A reliable partner that supports this process can also go a long way in making this process easier.
Mixing waste streams is another mistake that can happen. When non-hazardous waste is mixed with hazardous waste, the entire waste volume must be considered hazardous. Separating waste streams at the point of generation reduces errors and provides more accurate waste classification.
Storage violations are another error that happens when waste accumulation exceeds planned capacity. Storage areas become crowded and containers exceed time limits, especially during high-production periods. If you manage your waste storage process like inventory management, this issue can be easily addressed. Monitor volumes, schedule pickups based on actual generation, and maintain a buffer space for unplanned waste generation.
Unlicensed vendors can be another compliance risk, and a simple practice to have in place is to audit and verify that each vendor you work with has the necessary credentials for managing hazardous waste. Request EPA IDs, DOT licenses, and state permits from any waste service provider before commencing work.
Inadequate employee training may be one more area that leads to issues down the line, such as improper labeling or incorrect waste handling. Having regular training, as required by RCRA, helps employees stay current with all regulations and processes they need to follow. Regular refresher training keeps safety and compliance top of mind for both new and veteran employees.
How Crystal Clean Simplifies Hazardous Waste Removal
Managing hazardous waste comes with a higher expectation of compliance. That’s why having an experienced partner is essential to maintain compliance and minimize risk with a hazardous waste program. At Crystal Clean, we help reduce the burden of proper hazardous waste management by providing comprehensive, compliant, and consolidated service across all your environmental services.
Having a single partner for all waste streams means having a single point of contact, which simplifies scheduling, billing, and service coordination. A nationwide network like Crystal Clean’s means you’ll experience consistent service and compliance across all your facilities. Crystal Clean also monitors regulatory changes at the state and federal levels, keeping your operations ahead of evolving requirements.
Because we operate our own permitted treatment, recovery, and recycling facilities, we provide more options than transportation-only vendors. This means greater flexibility, lower risk, and more sustainable outcomes. Since Crystal Clean has the capabilities to manage waste from pickup to disposal, our team can help centralize waste stream data to make audits and sustainability reporting faster, easier, and more accurate.
And finally, part of hazardous waste management involves having a plan in place for emergency responses in the event of spills. When the unexpected happens, our 24/7 spill response teams are ready. With trained personnel and the right equipment, we provide peace of mind and fast containment when you need it most.
Protect Your Business and the Environment
Proper hazardous waste disposal isn’t just part of a compliance checklist. It’s part of your core operations and a strategic function that reduces risk and protects both the environment and your business. When you handle waste responsibly, you’re simultaneously reducing environmental impact and eliminating the regulatory and financial risks associated with cutting corners.
Your waste management program deserves the same strategic attention you give to other operational functions. The right approach, implemented consistently across your organization, becomes a strategic asset rather than a compliance obligation.
Partner with Crystal Clean today for safe, compliant, and sustainable waste management solutions tailored to your business needs. Contact our team to discuss how we can support your facility’s environmental management objectives.
What began as a small operation has evolved into a nationwide leader in environmental and industrial services. Crystal Clean’s growth has been driven by innovation, reliability, and a commitment to sustainability. Through continuous expansion and advanced technologies, we have built a strong foundation that supports our three core pillars: Environmental Services, Industrial Services, and Waste Treatment Solutions. Together, these capabilities position Crystal Clean as a trusted partner dedicated to helping businesses operate cleaner, safer, and more responsibly across North America.
Environmental Services
Crystal Clean’s story began with a simple but powerful vision: to protect the earth’s resources by helping the business world run cleaner. Over time, that mission evolved into a wide-reaching network of environmental support designed to keep facilities running safely and efficiently.
Our Environmental Services division has grown into a cornerstone of nationwide operations serving automotive, manufacturing, and industrial partners with expertise that blends convenience, safety, and sustainability. Crystal Clean supports every aspect of facility maintenance with expert parts cleaning, used oil, wastewater vacuum, and waste disposal services that ensure cleaner, more sustainable operations.
By focusing on service dependability and environmental responsibility, we’ve built long-standing partnerships that reflect our core values: safety, honesty, accountability, respect, relationships, inclusivity, and excellence.
As customer needs grew more complex, Crystal Clean expanded beyond routine environmental management into large-scale, on-site Industrial Services operations. These services are carried out through our Patriot Environmental Services brand.
As part of the Crystal Clean family, Patriot delivers the power of experience and rapid response for industrial and field service needs. Our team of knowledgeable and experienced professionals leads the industry in responsiveness, whether providing routine maintenance or mobilizing during a national disaster, and has earned a highly respected reputation for reliability and results. This commitment to excellence ensures that every project is completed safely, efficiently, and with the highest level of professionalism.
Through Patriot, we’ve built lasting partnerships with organizations that depend on reliability and rapid response. Serving a wide range of industries, our continued growth reflects Crystal Clean’s commitment to innovation, adaptability, and the expertise to meet every environmental challenge with confidence.
At the heart of Crystal Clean’s growth is a deep commitment to sustainability and a circular approach to resource management. Our Waste Treatment division provides sustainable methods for managing and disposing of waste, finding opportunities to recover or repurpose materials whenever possible to reduce environmental impact.
Through advanced technologies and state-of-the-art facilities, Crystal Clean reclaims used oil, treats wastewater, recycles antifreeze, and manages complex waste streams responsibly. Our processes support a circular approach to resource use by recovering usable products, promoting efficiency, and helping customers meet their environmental goals.
Every gallon re-refined, every liter treated, and every waste stream managed is part of our ongoing vision to protect the earth’s resources by helping the business world run cleaner.
Built to Grow. Designed to Last. Committed to Our Customers.
What began as a small operation has grown into a nationwide network built on service excellence, with Crystal Clean constantly evolving to meet the needs of both businesses and the environment.
Crystal Clean’s three pillars of Environmental Services, Industrial Services, and Waste Treatment Solutions function as one unified system. This cohesive approach enables us to deliver comprehensive environmental management, protect valuable resources, and drive sustainable growth for every customer we serve.
As we look ahead, one thing remains unchanged: Crystal Clean’s dedication to providing smarter, safer, and more sustainable solutions that keep North America’s industries moving forward.
Some career paths follow a straight line. Others take shape through ambition, adaptability, and a drive to succeed. For Jack Swartz, Branch Sales Manager in Milwaukee, the journey from Service Sales Representative (SSR) to BSM is a testament to what’s possible when you stay focused, stay hungry, and never settle for “no.”
Jack joined Crystal Clean in 2020 as an SSR at the Green Bay branch. By November 2024, he stepped into the BSM role in Milwaukee, ready to take on bigger responsibilities and lead from the front. With a growing team and customer base, his days are now faster paced and more demanding, but that’s exactly what motivates him.
“You’ve got to stay organized and on your toes. Things come at you fast, and customers count on you to solve problems quickly,” Jack said. “It’s not just about getting the sale; it’s about gaining their trust.”
Jack’s ability to read people, build relationships, and offer honest solutions has been key to his success. He’s a natural communicator who believes in being the kind of person others want to do business with. “Own your mistakes. Be honest. That’s how you build real trust with your customers,” he explained.
One of Jack’s most memorable wins came in March 2025, when he landed a major waste account with a large company in Wisconsin. What started with a parts washer service evolved into signing over 22 profiles for their waste disposal needs, a career defining moment that proved his strategy was working.
According to Regional Manager, Jeff Roche, “Jack is one of those mail room to the boardroom type individuals… Jack’s organized, structured and loves the preparation part of sales as much as the win.”
Divisional Vice President of Sales, Ed Guglielmi adds, “He’s self-motivated, intelligent, and aggressive in his prospecting. His commitment to research and asking the right questions has helped position him as one of the top sales performers in Division 1.”
What drives Jack? A mix of competitive spirit, problem solving, and a desire to support both his team and his family. Outside of work, he’s a proud Packers fan and supports his wife, who is studying diagnostic medical sonography full time.
Looking ahead, Jack hopes to see Crystal Clean invest in more TSDF facilities to create greater independence and pricing control. He sees every challenge as a chance to grow, personally and professionally, and continues to prove that persistence and preparation are a winning combination.
At Patriot’s Phoenix branch, Nicole Aguilar plays a vital role in keeping operations running smoothly. As Dispatch Manager, Nicole coordinates schedules, manages inventory, and ensures that every job is properly staffed and prepared. With nearly six years in the environmental services industry and five years with Patriot, she has worked her way up through multiple roles and understands first-hand what it takes to support a team in the field.
Nicole started her career with Patriot as a field technician, giving her firsthand experience of the demanding work our field teams handle every day. From there, she moved into the roles of Lead Technician, Foreman, and Emergency Response Supervisor, before stepping into her current role as Dispatch Manager. Having worked her way up in so many different positions, Nicole has a deep appreciation for the work each team member does and what it takes to support them.
A typical day for Nicole starts early with coffee and a focus on preparation. She makes sure crews have everything they need before heading out the door. That includes confirming they have the right supplies, enough personnel for the job, and all the required information to complete their work safely and efficiently. She also keeps a close eye on inventory, making sure chemicals, PPE, and other equipment are fully stocked and compliant. Regular walkthroughs of the warehouse help ensure everything is organized and ready for the next job.
Nicole believes her success comes from taking initiative and treating people fairly. As the oldest sibling in her family, she says she naturally stepped into leadership early in life. That mindset carries into her work today. She focuses on making sure responsibilities are shared evenly and that everyone on the team feels supported.
For Nicole, the team at the Phoenix branch is one of the best parts of the job. She describes the group as hardworking and always willing to help each other out, no matter the situation. That sense of teamwork is critical in an industry where every job can bring new challenges.
One memorable experience during her time with Patriot was attending On-site training in Bakersfield, where she was trained in how to use new equipment. The training was not only valuable from a technical standpoint but also gave her the opportunity to connect with colleagues from other branches and see how truly big of a team she is a part of.
Nicole credits Patriot with supporting her career growth by giving her opportunities to move into new roles and learn different aspects of the business. That trust and encouragement helped her continue developing professionally while staying close to the work she enjoys.
When offering advice to new employees, Nicole is honest about the realities of the job. There will be difficult days, she says, but the good days make the hard ones worthwhile. Maintaining a healthy work life balance and taking advantage of the quieter moments to reset can be just as valuable as working hard when the job demands it.
Safety is also a top priority for Nicole. The work our field reps perform can be dangerous, and she believes it is essential that every team member looks out for one another. Having a crew that trusts each other and works together safely is key to getting the job done right.
Nicole’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. Area Manager Tobi Moore shared her appreciation for the impact she continues to have at the Phoenix branch:
“I want to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation for Nicole’s exceptional work and dedication. Her contributions have not only met but exceeded expectations, and her professionalism has made a noticeable impact on our team’s success. Nicole’s ability to maintain a positive attitude during challenging situations and deliver consistently high-quality results sets a strong example for others. It’s clear that she approaches her work with both passion and precision, and that commitment inspires those around her. Nicole has played a key role strengthening client relationships and improving team efficiency, and her contributions are deeply valued. Thank you to Nicole for your hard work, dedication, and the positive energy you bring to our workplace.”
Outside of work, Nicole enjoys gardening and visiting local nurseries to add new plants to her collection, especially cacti and flowers. She also enjoys spending time with her family. Nicole and her husband, who owns an automotive shop, often work on cars together. They have two children, a 19-year-old son and a 16-year-old daughter and enjoy attending conventions and spending time together whenever they can.
Looking ahead, Nicole hopes to see Patriot continue expanding into areas such as biohazard decontaminations, helping the company grow while providing important services to communities.
Nicole’s dedication, hands on experience, and commitment to supporting her team make her an important part of the Patriot Phoenix operation. Through organization, initiative, and a strong focus on teamwork, she helps ensure that every job starts with the preparation needed to succeed.
Engines of different makes, models, and applications require very specific coolant technology to operate at peak efficiency. Choosing the correct antifreeze protects metal components from corrosion, prevents freeze-ups in cold weather, stops boil-overs in heat, and extends the overall life of the cooling system.
Antifreeze isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each formulation has unique properties—additive packages, service intervals, and compatibility requirements—that match specific OEM guidelines. Understanding these differences ensures every service is performed correctly and helps avoid costly issues down the road.
Below is an overview of Crystal Clean’s antifreeze solutions and where each is best applied.
Best for: Older passenger cars and light-duty trucks (generally pre-2002) requiring conventional coolant.
Key Benefits: Meets performance requirements of ASTM D3306; prediluted 50/50; phosphate-free inhibitor package; protects all system metals; service life up to 3 years or 50,000 miles.
Where It Fits: Maintains traditional cooling systems with reliable freeze/boil protection while preventing corrosion in aging components.
Best for: Heavy-duty diesel and CNG engines requiring conventional HD coolant with nitrite-based protection.
Key Benefits: Meets performance requirements of ASTM D6210 and D3306; contains SCAs and 1200 ppm nitrite; protects against liner pitting; available in pink or green; up to 3 years/300,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Where It Fits: Proven Nitrite-based chemistry for heavy-duty diesel and compressed natural gas engine colling systems requiring conventionally inhibited HD coolants.
Best for: Mixed fleets requiring nitrite-free OAT extended-life protection.
Key Benefits: Meets performance requirements of ASTM D6210, D3306; pure OAT formula using inhibitor technology free of nitrite, silicate, phosphate; protects against liner pitting; available in yellow or red; up to 600,000 miles/12,000 hours.
Where It Fits: Streamlines inventory for operations servicing both diesel and light-duty engines, extending service intervals without compromising protection.
Best for: Foreign and domestic passenger cars, SUVs, vans, and light trucks requiring extended-life OAT coolant.
Key Benefits: Meets performance requirements of ASTM D3306; pure OAT technology; nitrite-free inhibitor technology; compatible with other OAT coolants; up to 5 years/150,000 miles.
Where It Fits: Provides broad compatibility for modern vehicles, reducing the need to stock multiple specialty coolants while ensuring long-term protection.
Best for: General Motors vehicles requiring GM-licensed DEX-COOL®.
Key Benefits: GM-approved (GWM3420); meets performance requirements of ASTM D3306; 5-year/150,000-mile service life; ready-to-use 50/50; orange in color.
Where It Fits: Ensures OEM compliance and warranty protection for GM vehicles with factory-specified coolant requirements.
Best for: Heavy-duty diesel engines needing nitrite and molybdate-enhanced OAT protection.
Key Benefits: Meets performance requirements of ASTM D6210, D3306; eliminates need for SCAs; protects against liner pitting; up to 600,000 miles/12,000 hours with extender at mid-life.
Where It Fits: Delivers advanced corrosion protection for demanding diesel applications, with added benefits of nitrite and molybdate chemistry, compatible with other HD OAT coolants like CAT ELC
Matching Products to Performance and Profitability
Having the right antifreeze for every application means more than meeting OEM specifications; it streamlines service, reduces the number of SKUs needed on the shelf, and ensures the job is done right the first time.
Crystal Clean supports these needs not only with a complete antifreeze product line but also with closed-loop recycling services that restore used coolant to meet or exceed ASTM and OEM performance standards. This approach helps reduce waste, lower disposal costs, and protect the environment—while keeping your service operations running smoothly and profitably.
Providing excellent customer service requires more than just the people working in the field. It takes a dedicated team behind the scenes to ensure customers are connected with the right resources and branches have the information they need to deliver exceptional service. For more than 20 years, Sandra Yount has been helping make that happen.
As Branch Administration Lead in Shreveport, Sandra serves as an important connection point between customers and Crystal Clean’s branch operations. Through strong communication, attention to detail, and a commitment to teamwork, she helps ensure customers receive the support they need while assisting branches throughout the region.
Sandra’s story with Crystal Clean began in 2005, during the company’s early years. Originally joining through Specialty Oil, she experienced firsthand the transitions and growth that helped shape Crystal Clean into the company it is today. Back then, there were only a handful of branches, and much of her day was spent printing work orders, manifests, and supporting branch operations.
Over the years, Sandra’s role continued to evolve. What began as a backup support position alongside Audrey Bates eventually grew into a much larger responsibility. Today, Sandra and her team support numerous branches across the region, serving as a valuable resource for both employees and customers.
“My role has become more of an extension of the branches rather than just a backup,” Sandra explained.
A typical day starts with customer calls. Before directing customers to the appropriate branch, Sandra takes the time to gather the information needed to ensure they receive the right assistance as quickly as possible. Creating positive customer experiences is something she takes great pride in.
“I always want to leave a good impression with our customers,” she said.
That commitment to service has helped define Sandra’s career. She believes communication is one of the most important ingredients for success.
“Communication means everything,” Sandra shared. “Crystal Clean is all about teamwork. If you don’t have communication, it adds a layer of difficulty to every task.”
Her coworkers know her as someone who doesn’t leave a task unfinished. Once Sandra starts something, she sees it through to completion. Combined with her strong communication skills and dedication to teamwork, that determination has made her a trusted partner for branches throughout the company.
Kathaleen Carr, Branch Administration Manager shared her thoughts on Sandra “her caring nature shines through in everything she does. Whether she’s helping a customer, supporting a branch, or checking in on a coworker, she genuinely cares about the people she works with. That kind of heart is rare, and it’s a big part of what makes her such a valued member of our team”
With her experience in the environmental services industry, Sandra understands that learning never stops.
“This business is always changing,” she said. “There are always new things to learn. It can feel overwhelming at times, but if you stay with it, keep learning, adapt to change, and maintain communication with others, you’ll succeed.”
One of Sandra’s favorite memories from her time at Crystal Clean came in 2011 when she attended Crystal Club as a Keystone winner. The experience gave her the opportunity to meet many of the people she worked with every day and celebrate the accomplishments they had achieved together.
When asked about Crystal Clean’s values, Sandra doesn’t point to just one. Instead, she believes all of the SHARRIE values work together and should be reflected in both work and life.
“To be the best person I can be and to show others who I am, I try to live all of our values every day,” she said.
Sandra’s dedication to supporting others, maintaining strong relationships, and embracing teamwork has been a constant throughout her career. Whether she’s helping a customer, supporting a branch, or assisting a coworker, she approaches each interaction with the same commitment to service that has defined her more than twenty years with the company.
Outside of work, Sandra enjoys spending time with her family. She and her husband have three children, one daughter and two sons, along with four grandchildren who she proudly describes as the “apple of her eye.”
Most people might be surprised to learn that Sandra has previously driven a race car and dreamed of becoming a NASCAR driver. While that dream took a different path, the determination and drive that fueled it continue to serve her well today.
At home, she shares her life with two bulldogs, while the Shreveport office is home to two beloved feline companions, Mickey and Minnie.
Sandra continues to make a difference through her dedication, positive attitude, and unwavering commitment to teamwork. Her willingness to support others and her passion for delivering great customer service have made her an invaluable part of the Crystal Clean family and someone many employees and customers are grateful to know.
In the rugged terrain of the Southwest, there’s no mistaking the hustle of Nick Gonzales. As a Field Supervisor at the Las Vegas industrial services facility, Nick has been a driving force behind some of the most challenging and high-impact environmental projects under Crystal Clean’s Patriot Environmental subsidiary for nearly a decade. Whether he is coordinating a hydroblasting crew, leading a tank cleaning, or operating heavy equipment on a one-thousand-yard excavation site, Nick brings unmatched grit, experience, and leadership to every job.
With over 20 years in the environmental services industry, Nick’s journey began back in 2004 with hands-on field work at companies specializing in environmental response and industrial services. Nearly a decade ago, he brought that experience to Patriot. He continues to stay hands on, reliable, and laser focused. “I love what I do. The time flies because no two days are ever the same,” he says.
A One-Stop Shop in the Field
Nick’s daily routine includes a balance of planning and doing. He walks job sites, coordinates equipment, supports his technicians, and builds quotes alongside the sales team. He is the type of leader who thrives in the thick of the action. “I would not trade this for an office job,” he says with a smile. “I like staying hands on. That is where I belong.”
His ability to adapt to any situation has been key to his success. “You have got to be a one-stop shop,” he explains. “No matter what the job is, we get it done.”
One of his proudest moments came while leading a massive excavation project. As he recalls, “When you finish a job like that, you step back and realize something big was accomplished.”
Empowering Through Leadership and Safety
For Nick, leadership is about listening, preparing, and protecting. He creates an environment where every team member has a voice, especially during safety meetings. “I make sure everyone understands what we are doing, and I encourage people to speak up. When the team feels heard, they stay focused and safe.”
Safety is deeply personal to Nick. “The jobs we do are dangerous. If someone gets hurt, that is on me. I never want to carry that on my conscience. Safety is the most important part of every job we take on.”
He is also a strong believer in cross training. “It is not just about getting the job done. It is about teaching others how to do it the right way and safely. That is how we grow stronger as a team.”
Support, Growth, and Looking Ahead
Nick credits Patriot’s leadership for supporting his success in the field. “If I need equipment, I can get it. If something is going to help us do the job right, the company makes sure we have it. That kind of support means everything.”
As he looks to the future, Nick hopes to see Patriot and Crystal Clean expand its waste and water treatment capabilities. “We have the talent and the tools. The more we grow, the more we can achieve.”
He also offers sound advice to new employees. “Cross train, speak up, and stay alert. We are all here to help one another succeed and stay safe.”
Beyond the Job Site
Outside of work, Nick enjoys riding motorcycles both on and off the track. He also likes to travel when he gets the chance. His favorite places so far have been Ireland and Japan, both offering a change of pace and a break from the day-to-day.
Whether leading a complex mine cleanup or mentoring the next generation of field techs, Nick Gonzales is a steady force at Patriot. He is a leader who gets the job done, builds up his team, and always puts safety first.
2000 Center Drive Suite East C300
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
Toll Free 1-877-938-7948 Fax 1-847-836-5677
New Online Payment Portal
Crystal Clean has moved to a new online payment portal called Versapay. The new platform gives you benefits such as:
One-click access to invoices and supporting documents
Email notifications to alert you when a new invoice is available
Online communication with us if you have any invoice questions
24/7 access to your account anytime, anywhere
Please click the button below to access the portal and set up your account. You will need to create a new account even if you have used our previous online payment system.
