How to Dispose of Propane Tanks

We can help you get rid of old or damaged propane cylinders.

At the premier supplier of gas-powered outdoor living equipment in North Carolina — plus a resource for customers to refill their propane grill tanks — LG Jordan Oil & Gas knows a thing or two about how to properly maintain, inspect and retire portable propane cylinders.

In this article, we’ll discuss how you can tell if your portable propane tank is no longer safe to use. We’ll also tell you how to safely dispose of it in Raleigh and elsewhere in the Tar Heel State.

Inspection Guidelines for Portable Propane Cylinders

Portable propane containers, such as grill tanks, are known as DOT tanks, named after the U.S. Department of Transportation, which sets regulations for their use. According to DOT guidelines, you should have your grill tank inspected at a DOT facility 12 years after its manufacture date and every five years after that.

Signs Your Propane Cylinder Should Be Retired

Propane cylinders can last quite a long time, often several decades. However, it’s important to recognize when they’re past their prime and no longer safe to use. Here’s what to look out for:

• Significant rust
• Dents, bulges, cuts or cracks
• Signs of burning
• A damaged or missing collar, footing or valve cover
• A leaking valve

If you notice any of the issues above or otherwise suspect your portable propane tank is defective or unsafe, immediately dispose of it.

Disposing of Propane Cylinders in North Carolina

Firstly, do not abandon a propane cylinder, throw it in your home trash can or attempt to disassemble it yourself.

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services provides advice on how to dispose of your portable propane tank correctly . Here are some general guidelines:

• Exchange your cylinder with your local propane company for one that meets DOT standards. (LG Jordan’s procedures are in the section below.)
• Some propane companies accept old cylinders for refurbishment. Check locally.
• Some recycling centers will recycle propane cylinders if cut in half. Only cut cylinders if you are experienced. Check with your area’s Public Works Department for local ordinances.

Refilling and Requalifying Portable Propane Tanks with LG Jordan

If you are in our service area of Wake, Chatham and surrounding counties, the LG Jordan Oil & Gas team is at your service to deal with an old, unusable propane cylinder. Come by our office during normal business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.), and a technician will inspect your portable propane tank. If we can repair or refurbish it, we will. Otherwise, we’ll swap it out for a qualified tank. If you feel your propane cylinder may be unsafe to transport, please call ahead.

LG Jordan does DOT re-qualifications for all propane cylinders. We also offer propane cylinder refills, which are just about the best deal for propane in the region.

As we have been for 100 years, LG Jordan is at here for fuel and equipment services. If there’s anything we can do to improve the performance of your propane equipment, please reach out to us.