Propane is an awesome natural gas; it’s environmentally friendly, inexpensive to use, and heats evenly: unfortunately, when the tank is empty, it leaves many people with many questions about what to do with it.
This is everything you need to know!
Don’t Run Them Dry
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Pay attention to your propane levels! Avoid letting your tank run dry since this can lead to leaks and other issues that will make it difficult to refill or replace. When your level gets low enough, contact your propane company, or consider following one of these options below.
Don’t Throw Them Out.
The last thing you should do with any propane tank is to take it to a landfill or try to throw it away with other everyday trash. This is illegal in most states, but it’s also extremely hazardous to the workers who transport garbage or work in landfills. Although propane is a clean energy source and doesn’t dissolve into water, a pressurized tank getting warm overtime isn’t safe.
Contact Your Propane Provider
Any good propane delivery company will offer either reusable tanks or will offer to pick up yours once it’s finished. This will ensure that you’re giving it to the right company that knows how to dispose of it or recycle the tank and can often save you from having to drive anywhere to deal with any other businesses or organizations.
Make sure your tank is clean on the outside, and check their instructions on whether you should disconnect it or what they’ll do when they arrive for pick up. If you don’t know what company the tank is from, check the tank itself for a number or label.
Look For Local Business Drop Off Locations
If you don’t want to deal with a long drive and your provider isn’t able to pick up or recycle your tank: it’s time to consider asking local businesses if they offer propane tank recycling or are willing to take it off of your hands. Some businesses that sell propane will be willing to take a tank from you, even if they aren’t the business you purchased from, at no charge. This is an awesome way to get your unwanted tank dropped off and taken care of by someone who knows what they’re doing.
Check for Local Hazardous Waste Collection Sites
If you can’t find anyone locally who can take your propane tank, it’s vital that you research how your state or city wants you to dispose of your tank. Some may request that you take the time to drive it out to a local site, while others will offer to pick it up for you for a fee. If this is the only option available to you, it’s a good one to take- but consider looking into the others before you do this to save yourself the trouble and a possible fee.
Don’t Dispose of These Improperly!
Propane is an awesome source of fuel, but getting rid of the tank can be tricky if you don’t know what you’re doing. Get to know your local laws and ordinances, and call your propane supplier if you’re still concerned.
