There are a number of ways to safely dispose of your used camping propane tank. Many gas stations and camping supply shops will accept used camping propane tanks for recycling. Many will also give you a full tank for free if you’d like to trade in your tank. To ensure maximum safety and ease of disposal, you should always clean the tank before dropping it off.
One of the best ways to check the level of your propane is to dip it into a small cup of hot water. You can also use a magnetic color-changing thermometer. This device measures the temperature of propane and the air above it. Alternatively, you can dip an empty propane tank into a bucket of water. A tank that is empty will float higher than one that is full.
Propane is a dangerous gas and should be handled with caution. Propane tanks should be stored in a cool, dry location and should never be in direct sunlight. If possible, store the tank outside in a shady spot. This way, you can minimize the risk of a leak if it occurs.
In addition to using the correct propane cylinder, you should also check the propane cylinders for leaks. Ideally, a single gallon of propane can last up to an hour at mid or high settings. However, two hours is unrealistic. To avoid this problem, purchase a second camping propane tank.