Small propane tanks can be a great source of fuel for many items in your home, such as a grill or a heater. However, when you are no longer using them, it is important to dispose of them properly. If you’ve ever wondered how to dispose of small propane tanks, you’re in the right place.
In this blog post, we will teach you how to do just that! And we will also share some additional commonly asked questions about small propane tanks so that you can be fully informed.
A small propane tank can range from 1 pound to 20 pounds and usually has to be replaced frequently, so it’s a good idea to know how to dispose of it properly:
Table of Contents
7 Ways to Dispose of Small Propane Tanks
Here are five ways that you can dispose of your small propane tanks:
1. Exchange Your Tank at a Local Retailer
One of the best options for disposing of your small propane tanks is to exchange them at a local retailer. This is a great option because you can usually do it for free or for a very small fee.
Most retailers will have a special bin where you can drop off your old propane tank and pick up a new one.
Not only will your old tank be disposed of properly, but you’ll be ready to go with more fuel.
Here are some retailers that are known for exchanging an empty tank for a full one:
- Lakes Gas
- AmeriGas
- BlueRhino
- RapidXchange
- Home Depot
- Walmart
There are plenty of additional convenience stores, gas stations, and hardware stores that have partnered with one of these propane companies to offer an exchange program as well.
Look online to find local retailers that participate in an exchange program near you. Just make sure to call ahead and confirm that they are still participating and that they have the size tank that you need.
2. Recycle Your Tank at a Local Waste Station
If your canister isn’t in the best condition or you’re not near an exchange location, recycling is always an option.
Most waste stations will have a designated area for recyclables, and propane tanks usually fall into that category.
However, it’s important to call your local waste station ahead of time to confirm that they accept propane tanks before heading over there.
Some waste stations may require that you drain the tank completely before recycling it, so be sure to ask about that as well.
Here is a list of common waste stations in the United States:
- Advanced Disposal
- BFI Waste Systems
- Waste Management
- Republic Services
- Kimble Company
- Casella Waste Systems
- Rumpke Consolidated Companies
- Browning-Ferris Industries
- American Disposal Services
You can easily find contact information for your local waste station by doing a quick Google search. Here is a tool that helps you easily look up a local solid waste authority in your state.
3. Use Your Regular Trash Bin
Some local laws allow you to dispose of your propane tanks in your regular trash bin.
Of course, you’ll want to check with your local laws and regulations before doing this. But if it is allowed in your area, then throwing it out is the easiest option.
Just be sure to completely drain the tank of any propane before putting it in your bin. If there is any leftover propane in the tank, it could explode and cause serious damage.
The problem with this method is that it’s not so easy to figure out whether or not a person has emptied the tank. The Coleman Green Key Tool was invented in 2008 to help solve this problem, although it isn’t as popular as anticipated.
It works by using a small green key that is attached to the tank. Once the canister is empty, the user can place the green key in the can’s nozzle to indicate that it is safe for handling.
4. Refill Your Tank
It’s important to note that the common 16.04-ounce propane tanks cannot be refilled. This is due to their design. They are meant for single-use, so it’s possible to harm the environment and yourself by trying to refill them.
These small propane tanks are called DOT 39 Cylinders and it is a federal crime to refill them. You risk up to 5 years in prison and a half-million-dollar fine. So it’s best not to risk it.
However, you can refill the larger propane tanks that are used for grilling and other outdoor activities.
But before you start refilling your tank, there are a few things you need to know. First, you’ll need to find a place that fills tanks. Refilling stations are not as common as propane exchange retailers, so you may have to do some searching.
Second, you’ll need the proper equipment to refill your tank. This includes a hose and regulator that is compatible with the type of tank that you have.
And lastly, you’ll need to know how to properly fill the tank. If not done correctly, filling your own tank can be dangerous.
In the long run, refilling your tank several times can save you a lot of money since you don’t need to repurchase the canister. This is a great option for those who use propane frequently and need to regularly restock.
5. Sell a Used Tank Online
If you want to get a little bit of money for your used propane tank, then you can try selling it online.
There are a few different websites where you can list items for sale such as Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace.
Just be sure to list the condition of the tank and whether or not it’s been emptied. You should also include pictures to show potential buyers what they’re getting.
Selling a used propane tank is a great way to get a little bit of money back, and it’s also good for the environment. It will help the buyer save money since they don’t have to purchase a new tank, and it will keep the propane tank out of the landfill.
6. Recycle Your Tank At a National Park
Many National Parks now have small propane canister bins where you can recycle your used tanks.
This is a great option because it makes it extremely easy to get rid of your canister. You don’t need to bring it back home with you or out to any waste center, saving you lots of time.
Check with your local National Park to see if they have a propane canister recycling program. State and private parks may have similar programs, so be sure to ask around.
7. Have the City Pick Up Your Tank
If you want to get rid of your propane tank but don’t want to go through the hassle of taking it to a disposal center, then your city may be able to help.
Some cities offer special pick-up days where they will come and collect large items such as appliances and furniture. They may also collect small propane tanks and hazardous materials.
Call your city’s waste management department to see if they offer this service. If not, they may be able to provide you with a list of local disposal centers.
What Are Propane Tanks Made Of?
Propane tanks are made of either steel or aluminum. The most common type of propane tank is the steel tank. Steel tanks are less expensive to manufacture, which makes them a popular choice for consumers.
Aluminum propane tanks are also available, but they’re not as common because they’re more expensive. Aluminum is a lighter metal, which makes it easier to transport.
They can also be made from composite materials, which are a mix of metal and plastic. Composite tanks are more expensive, but they’re also lighter and more durable.
The type of propane tank that you choose should be based on your needs and preferences. If you need a lightweight and durable tank, then an aluminum or composite tank would be the best option. But if you’re looking for a cheaper option, then a steel tank would be the way to go.
Propane tanks are available in a variety of sizes. The most common size is the 20-pound tank. These tanks are usually used for grilling and other outdoor activities.
Other sizes include the 30-pound tank, which is common for RVs and campers, and the 100-pound tank, which is used for commercial purposes.
The fuel is added to the tank under pressure, which is why propane tanks are equipped with a valve. This valve regulates the flow of gas and prevents the tank from being overfilled.
How to Fill a Propane Tank
Propane tanks are made to withstand high pressures, but they can still be damaged if they’re not handled properly. That’s why it’s important to know how to properly fill the tank.
Here are a few tips to help you fill your propane tank:
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions before filling the tank. This will help you avoid any damage to the tank.
- Fill the tank slowly. Don’t try to fill it too quickly or you could cause damage to the valve.
- Use a pressure gauge to check the pressure in the tank. This will help you avoid overfilling the tank.
- Never fill the tank more than 80% full. This will leave room for expansion and prevent the tank from being overfilled.
Make sure that you’re following these tips when you fill your propane tank. This will help you avoid any damage to the tank and keep it in good condition.
How to Use a Propane Tank
Propane tanks are used for a variety of purposes, such as grilling, camping, and heating. If you’re new to using propane, then you might be wondering how to properly use the tank.
Here are a few tips to help you use your propane tank:
- Be sure to open the valve slowly. Opening it too quickly can cause a sudden release of gas, which can be dangerous.
- Never use the tank in an enclosed space. Propane is a flammable gas, so it needs to be used in well-ventilated areas.
- Be sure to close the valve when you’re finished using the propane. This will prevent any gas from leaking out.
Take a look at online videos to specifically see how to use your type of propane tank. This way you can get a visual sense of how it works.
Can Small Propane Tanks Explode?
Small propane tanks can explode if they’re not properly cared for. If the tank is damaged, it can leak propane, which is highly flammable. If there’s a fire nearby, the leaking propane could ignite and cause the tank to explode.
To prevent this from happening, it’s important to inspect your propane tank regularly. If you see any damage, make sure to repair it or replace the tank. You should also keep your propane tank away from any heat sources, such as a campfire or grill.
How Can You Tell if a 1 LB Tank Is Empty?
The first thing you need to do is find out if your small propane tank is empty or not. You can do this by checking the pressure gauge on the side of the tank. If the needle is pointing to zero, then the tank is most likely empty and can be disposed of.
If you’re not sure how to read the pressure gauge, you can ask someone at your local hardware store or propane supplier. They should be able to help you out.
Another way to tell if a small propane tank is empty is by weighing it. To be sure, you can check the weight of the tank against the manufacturer’s specifications.
This information should be listed on the tank or on the manufacturer’s website.
How to Empty a Small Propane Tank
If you aren’t sure if there is propane remaining in your small tank, you should hook it up to a propane stove, grill, or lantern.
Turn the device on. If there is a flame, this is confirmation that there is propane in the tank. If there is no flame, the tank is most likely empty.
Once you’ve confirmed that there is propane in the tank, open the valve fully and allow the gas to flow out. Make sure that you’re doing this in a well-ventilated area.
Where Do You Store Small Propane Tanks?
You should store your small propane tanks in a cool, dry place. If you’re going to be storing them for an extended period of time, you should consider placing them in a storage locker or shed.
You should also make sure that the tanks are not exposed to direct sunlight or any other heat source. This could cause the propane to expand and potentially damage the tank.
Finally, keep your propane tanks away from pets and small children. Even if the tank is empty, they could still be harmed by the gas.
Is Propane Considered Green Energy?
Propane is a relatively clean-burning fuel. It has less carbon than gasoline, fuel oil, kerosene, ethanol, and diesel gas. It produces less greenhouse gases than every other fuel, making it a good choice for those who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
While propane is a clean-burning fuel, it’s not considered renewable. This is because propane is derived from natural gas and crude oil, which are non-renewable resources.
Propane is approved by the EPA as a clean alternative to many of these other fuels. It’s also been recognized by the Department of Energy as an important part of America’s energy security.
Proper disposal of small propane tanks contributes greatly to the environmental sustainability of this energy source.
How Long Does a 1 LB Propane Tank Last?
A 1-pound tank of propane will last, on average, for about two hours. Many factors can affect how long the propane will last, such as the temperature and size of the tank. The setting you’re using your propane-powered device on can also play a role.
If you’re using your propane-powered device on the highest setting, the tank will run out faster than if you’re using it on a lower setting. The type of device you’re using can also affect how quickly the propane is used up.
For example, a small lantern will use less propane than a large camp stove.
When you’re finished using your propane-powered device, be sure to turn off the valve on the tank. This will prevent any propane from leaking out.
You should also disconnect the tank from the device and store it in a safe place.
How Many Propane Tanks Do I Need When Camping?
The number of propane tanks you’ll need when camping will depend on how much you plan to use your propane-powered devices.
If you’re only going to be using them for short periods of time, one or two tanks should be enough. However, if you’re planning to use them for extended periods of time, you may need more tanks.
You should also consider how many devices you’ll be using and how often you’ll be using them. If you’re only going to be using one device occasionally, one tank should be enough.
However, if you’re planning to use multiple devices frequently, you may need more than one tank.
As a rule of thumb, bring 1 pound extra propane per day, just to be safe. This way you’ll have a little extra fuel each day in case something unexpected happens.
If you’re efficient with your cooking, you can extend the life of your propane by cooking multiple meals at once. This will allow you to use the stove less often, which will save propane.
You can also save propane by using solar ovens or campfire grills whenever possible.
Final Thoughts
We hope this article has helped you understand how to dispose of small propane tanks.
Remember, these tanks can be dangerous if they’re not properly cared for. Not only is it dangerous to throw out a partially full propane tank, but it’s also illegal in many states.
If you have any questions, be sure to ask your local hardware store or propane supplier. They should be able to help you out.
For general maintenance, inspect them regularly and keep them away from heat sources. If you’re not sure if the tank is empty, you can check the pressure gauge or weigh the tank.
Finally, make sure to store the tanks in a cool, dry place. This will help extend their life and keep them in good condition.
Thanks for reading!