How do I Dispose of Propane Tanks in Houston, Texas?

Disposing of propane tanks in the trash can be dangeropus.

Propane tanks used for barbecues, camp lanterns and other purposes contain flammable materials that make throwing them in the trash ill-advised and dangerous. The City of Houston does not offer propane tank collection, but it does maintain three propane recyclers within city limits. Disposing of old propane tanks in Houston, Texas, is quick and easy. As Earth911 notes, they are basically scrap metal. Use caution when moving and transporting all propane tanks, from empty ones to new replacement tanks.

Instructions

1. Locate a propane tank recycler close to your home using Earth911's list of Houston propane recyclers at search.earth911.com. As of August 2010, three recycling facilities are located in Houston.

2. Call the propane recycler nearest you to find out its current open hours.

3. Unscrew the old propane tank from your backyard grill. Gather other propane tanks. Check to ensure the valve is shut, even if the tank is empty.

4. Place the propane tanks in your car. Drive to the nearest propane recycler to dispose of the tanks.

Tips & Warnings

• Many companies allow you to exchange your old propane tank for a new one. If you need to buy a new propane tank, call companies to find out if you can trade in the old tank for free. This eliminates a trip to the propane recycler.

• Never store propane tanks in your basement or garage--they could explode or leak deadly gas.

References

• Earth911: Propane Tank 101
• Propane 101: Propane Tank Disposal

Resources

• Earth911: Propane Recycling Near Houston