I was cleaning out a clogged sump pump for my first time (is been cleaned before but not by me). During this I opened the top of the pump and saw what looked like a yellow solid but it turned out to be a liquid. At first I thought it was some sort of dirty water that hadn't drained from the pump but when I dumped some of it out I saw some coiled wires. I stopped but by that time I spilled some of it on my hands and a lot of it on the ground.
What is the liquid and how toxic is it? The sump pump was from the late 80's, so I don't know what types of liquids they used then or if the liquid has been replaced since then. Its been 30 minutes since the spill and I feel fine but want to be sure.
Also, can I pick up the liquid at a local store to replace what spilled out?
Best Answer
Well, if it's from the late 80s, then it shouldn't contain any PCBs.
That liquid is probably a dielectric oil with a high viscosity. That would explain why you were thinking it's a solid. They're non-conductive mineral oils and as oil does, it displaces water.
Treat it like a motor oil spill. Here's an MSDS sheet for Shell Morlina oil which is probably similar.