Proper disposal of empty propane bottles

**BobS0327** · 03-31-2011, 06:00 AM

I have several empty propane bottles (the type that is used for soldering copper water lines) and I don't know how to properly (safely) dispose of these bottles.

Thus, how can I properly dispose of these bottles? I don't think I should just throw them in the trash for fear that there may still be some propane in the tanks which could cause an explosion and possible injure someone such as the trash collector.

TIA

Bob

**jimbo** · 03-31-2011, 06:47 AM

They are disposable. there should be instructions printed on the bottle.

**Spaceman Spiff** · 03-31-2011, 11:11 AM

They are made of steel so I just put mine in my recycle bin. I make sure they're totally empty first.

**rexles** · 03-31-2011, 01:53 PM

I shoot mine full of holes on the target range first before putting in the recycle bin.

**cacher_chick** · 03-31-2011, 02:44 PM

If you are worried about them not being empty, put the torch head back on and leave the valve open for ample time to make sure.

**Basement_Lurker** · 03-31-2011, 08:20 PM

Hmm, I could have sworn that the bottles say not to dispose of empties with household refuse. We have designated recycling centers where they accept hazardous waste such as these. You can always phone your municipality and ask, or wait to talk to the guys directly on collection day.

**cacher_chick** · 03-31-2011, 08:28 PM

With refrigerant containers, I drill a few holes in them and throw them in the trash for the scrap metal guys. I'd be a little more leery of drilling the propane containers, but if they were open for a few days..........