Household Hazardous Waste
Special Wastes-  Propane Cylinders

Uses:

Propane grills and grilling outdoors during the summer months have become synonymous.  In fact, Americans have embraced grilling outside so much that the month of May has been deemed National Barbeque month.  Add to this the ease of clean up, friends and family, and being outdoors and you can see why propane use has increased.

With this increased use of propane tanks and grills and the addition of the Overfill Prevention Device (OPD) regulation (April 1, 2002), there has been a large influx of propane tanks that are no longer serviceable (No OPD).  Old propane tanks that have no OPD have higher chances for injury during the filling and refilling of tanks.  According to Blue Rhino, an estimated 40 million standard 20-pound cylinders (Barbeque Size) that do not have OPDs will require retrofitting or replacement before being refilled.

In addition to the 20-pound cylinders (Barbeque Size), many companies now make one pound disposable propane tanks for torches and camping gear.  These one-pound tanks pose serious implications for handlers of solid waste due to their explosive nature and flammable contents, when discarded in the trash.  

Handling & Disposal:

• To reduce fire and safety concerns, use propane tanks until they are empty. 
• Be sure the valve is closed when recycling propane tanks.  If available replace the plastic screw-in insert that comes with the tank.
• Exchange 20 pound barbeque tanks at your local propane tank exchange.
• Bring propane tanks larger than 20 pounds to your local propane dealer or gas supply house.
• When transporting tanks make sure they are secure and away from any potential exposure to extreme temperature change, physical damage or tampering.
• Propane tanks should be stored and transported in an upright position to reduce the possible release of liquid propane.
• Bring one pound propane tanks to your local recycling center or household hazardous waste collection center. Click here for contacts in your area.