How to Recycle Propane Containers

Propane is a natural gas that's used to cook on the grill.

Propane gas is one of the nation's most versatile sources of energy. It supplies three to four percent of our total energy, according to Connecticut's Department of Environmental Protection. It is used for cooking food on the grill, portable stoves and some residential heating systems.



In the event your propane container has expired or becomes defective, don't throw it away in the trash. Take it to a local retailer for recycling.

Instructions

1. Locate participating retailers in your area. You can find some by logging onto your state's Environmental Services website. It should provide a list of companies that participate in the propane-recycling program. For instance, in San Diego, Home Depot, Kmart, Navy Exchange/Nexcom, Stump's Market stores and Texaco gas stations participate in the recycling program.

2. Call the retailer to find out about its requirements, hours of operation and if it offers vouchers to purchase additional propane containers in exchange for your recycled container. Make sure it accepts your type of propane container.

3. Close the valve on your propane container. Secure the tank on a flat surface in an upright position to minimize movement when transporting it to your chosen retailer.

Tips & Warnings

• If your empty propane container is open, it may emit gas which is a fire hazard and an air pollutant.

References

• San Diego.gov: Recycling Propane
• Connecticut.gov: Recycling Propane Grill Tanks