How To Dispose Of Propane Tanks

The safety measures to follow

Taking out our home’s trash is a regular and routine occurrence for many, if not most, of us. However, a propane tank – even if it’s empty or old – is not an item that can go in your regular garbage or dumpster. There are certain and specific protocols to follow when it comes to disposing of an old propane tank that help keep everyone safe and out of harm’s way.

The proper way to get rid of a propane tank

There are a couple of different options when it comes to disposing a propane tank.

1. Find a propane tank exchange service: If you find a propane provider with a propane tank exchange service you can bring your old tank to them and switch it out for a new, full one.
2. Recycle your tank: This can’t be done at your standard landfill, recycling center or scrap metal dealer since there is a chance that an old tank still has propane in it, but a propane exchange company that is trained to properly handle propane can recycle your old tank for you.

Additional propane safety tips

Knowing how to properly throw away your propane tank is an important part of using propane safely. Any propane user should also be aware of what to do in the event that he or she suspects a propane leak. A propane leak will intentionally smell like rotten eggs. Here is what you should do if you do think you are in an area with a gas leak:

• Evacuate the area as quickly as you can.
• Stop using light switches, thermostats and any phones.
• If you have any candles or cigarettes burning put them out immediately.
• Close the gas shutoff valve on your propane tank or cylinder if it is easily accessible and if you can do so safely.
• Once you are a safe distance away from the potential leak, contact emergency services and your propane provider.
• Stay away from the area with the potential leak until emergency services or a professional propane service technician has given you the okay to do so.

Even though a propane tank leak is possible, it is pretty rare and uncommon. In fact, propane has a reputation for being an incredibly safe fuel. This is due, in part, to very strict regulations that both propane providers and propane customers have to follow.

On top of that, propane does not contain methane and it produces less carbon dioxide than other fuel options (with the exception of natural gas). It also releases hardly any particulate matter, which is a carcinogen.

So as long as you are getting rid of your propane tanks properly and following the guidelines put in place for propane usage you can rest assured that you are safe while your propane appliances are on and working.

Propane from Sierra Propane

If you are in the market for a new propane tank, Sierra Propane can help! We sell and lease a wide variety of propane tanks. Sierra Propane can also deliver the clean-burning, energy-efficient propane your New Mexico or Arizona home or business needs.

Contact Sierra Propane today – we are ready to be your propane partner!