How to Safely Dispose of Camping Propane Tanks and Cylinders

Camping Stuff

Small green propane cylinders and refillable tanks power camp stoves, lanterns, grills and heaters. At the end of the camping season, many campers end up with a pile of empty or half-used cylinders and aren’t sure what to do with them. Propane containers should never go in the regular trash or recycling bin unless your local rules say so, because even “empty” containers can hold leftover gas. Here’s how to handle them safely.

Stacks of standard 20-pound propane cylinders at a tank exchange

Know which container you have

1-lb disposable cylinders

These are the small cylinders most camp stoves and lanterns use. Most are labeled as non-refillable, and refilling them is not recommended. They need special handling when empty.

Refillable 1-lb cylinders

Some brands sell 1-lb cylinders designed to be refilled. They are clearly marked as refillable and are a way to cut down on waste.

20-lb and larger refillable tanks

The standard grill-size tank. These are refilled or exchanged rather than thrown away. Our guide on running camp stoves and heaters off a 20-lb tank explains how to use one at camp.

Backpacking stove canisters

Screw-on isobutane-propane canisters for backpacking stoves are a different product with their own disposal rules. Check the manufacturer’s instructions and your local recycling program.

How to tell if a cylinder is empty

  • Use it up. The safest way to empty a cylinder is to burn off the remaining fuel in your stove or lantern outdoors.
  • Weigh it. Larger tanks are stamped with a tare weight (“TW”), the weight of the empty tank. Compare it with the current weight on a scale.
  • Shake gently. A small cylinder with liquid inside will slosh.

Never try to vent gas by opening a valve indoors or near flames, and never puncture or crush a cylinder yourself unless your local program specifically tells you to use an approved tool.

Disposal and recycling options

For 20-lb tanks

  • Exchange it. Tank exchange programs at many retailers take your old tank and give you a filled one.
  • Refill it. Propane dealers and some gas stations and campgrounds refill tanks.
  • Retire it properly. Old, damaged or out-of-date tanks can often be dropped off at a propane dealer or a household hazardous waste facility.

For 1-lb cylinders

  • Household hazardous waste programs. Many cities and counties accept propane cylinders at drop-off sites or collection events.
  • Local solid waste or recycling office. Some areas accept empty cylinders for scrap metal recycling, sometimes only after they’re certified empty.
  • Parks and campgrounds. Some campgrounds have collection bins for used cylinders. Use them if available.
  • Retail take-back. Some stores and outdoor retailers run collection programs. Ask locally.

Because rules differ from place to place, call your local waste agency or check its website before you drop anything off.

Check the tank date

Refillable tanks have a manufacture date stamped on the collar. In the United States, a tank generally needs to be inspected and requalified 12 years after that date before it can be refilled again. Many refillers will simply swap an out-of-date tank through an exchange program. Older tanks without an overfill protection device (OPD) valve can’t be refilled in the U.S. and should be retired.

Storing propane between trips

  • Store cylinders and tanks outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, upright, and away from heat sources and direct sun.
  • Never store propane indoors, in a basement or in a closed garage near appliances.
  • Keep valve caps or plugs on when not in use.
  • Transport tanks upright and secured, and don’t leave them in a hot, closed vehicle.

Safety reminders at camp

Use propane appliances outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces only, check connections for leaks with soapy water, and keep a carbon monoxide alarm in any enclosed space where a heater is used. Read more in our guides to choosing a camping heater and choosing a camping stove.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Tossing cylinders in curbside recycling, where they can be crushed or end up in a hot compactor.
  • Leaving half-full cylinders in a car trunk all summer.
  • Storing spare cylinders inside a tent, camper or cabin.
  • Trying to refill disposable cylinders with homemade adapters.
  • Ignoring rust, dents or a damaged valve. A damaged container should be taken out of service and disposed of properly.

FAQ

Can I throw a 1-lb propane cylinder in the trash?

Not unless your local rules allow it. Most areas treat propane cylinders as household hazardous waste.

Can I refill disposable green cylinders?

Most are labeled non-refillable, and refilling them is not recommended. Choose cylinders made to be refilled instead.

Where can I get rid of an old 20-lb tank?

Exchange it at a retailer, or take it to a propane dealer or household hazardous waste facility.

Top image: “Blue Rhino Tanks” by ErinShea112233, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.