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Propane tanks are an extremely efficient, affordable, and easy way to power up your days. Portable propane tanks are used in a variety of ways, from cookouts, to camping, to tailgating. Larger and more permanent tanks are used to fuel homes for your hot water, heating, and cooking needs.
Propane was deemed by the 1990 Clean Air Act to be a clean-burning fuel. It is colorless, odorless, and non-toxic (that rotten egg smell you detect is an odorant that is added that helps locate any leaks).
While propane has its many uses, your needs will change over time. If you’re trying to get rid of your propane tank, we’re here to help.
Can Propane Tanks be Thrown Away?
In short, no. Propane is a highly flammable material and reaches a boiling point at -44 degrees Fahrenheit (-42 degrees Celsius). This means that this material functions at very low temperatures and can become very flammable under normal conditions.
When you handle propane tanks, you should always make sure that proper safety measures are taken.
How to Dispose of Propane Tanks
With proper maintenance, small portable propane tanks can last up to 12 years. Household propane tanks could potentially be used for 30 years. This prevents the need to frequently cycle through propane tanks – you can simply call your local propane suppliers and have it refilled.
However, when reuse isn’t on your to-do list, the next best thing to do is recycle them. Let us tell you how.
1. Wear Proper Safety Gear
Like we mentioned earlier, propane can be dangerous to handle if you’re not careful. Make sure you’re wearing sleeves and pants as well as thick gloves when handling your old tank. We also recommend you wear protective eyewear, just in case anything pops off.
2. Turn Off all the Devices Connected to Your Tank
The risk of an errant spark or ignition could be bad news for you. Please make sure that the power sources are disconnected before you start disconnecting your tank from the hose.
3. Don't Put Your Propane Tank in the Trash
Throwing away your propane tank in a normal bin could result in a fine, but you also want to consider the safety of your community.
Garbage collectors and handlers move quickly through our neighborhoods. If they handle a propane tank without knowledge, explosions and injuries can occur. Help keep your home and your neighbors safe and don’t try to throw your propane tanks in the garbage.
4. Bring Your Tank to a Retailer
If you have a large tank, a local propane retailer will be able to come by and pick it up. You’ll need to pay a small fee for this, but it is easier than trying to haul it yourself.
With the smaller tanks, you’ll be able to drop it off at a hardware store or retailer on your own. You can also refill your tank at these locations if you’re not ready to part with your tank.
From there, the store may be able to reuse the tank. However, if the tank is damaged, leaking, or poses a safety hazard, the store will send the tank to a specialized recycling center.
Propane is Safe to Use and Easy to Dispose Of
Propane is used in many common ways and is widely available to the public. Disposing of it may seem a little daunting, but it’s actually quite easy.
Make sure you’re always following all safety guidelines while using propane, as well as when you’re disposing of a tank or taking it in for recycling.
Discount Dumpster is Your Responsible Disposal Source
Discount Dumpster proud to provide our communities with all the information they need in order to safely dispose of their waste. Whether its window trimmings, old furniture, or even hazardous waste (such as propane tanks), we give our customers the full rundown on how to toss their waste safely.
Give us a call to get a free quote on your next major waste purge. We’d be happy to help!
Call Today for Advice on Responsible Waste Disposal! - (888) 316-7010