Returning or Recycling a Propane Grill Tank
If you have a 20-pound propane grill tank in Connecticut that you no longer use, there are ways to get rid of it without throwing it away! Depending on the condition of your tank, you can either return it to a retailer that offers propane cylinder exchange or refill services or seek out the proper channels to recycle it.
Why It Matters
Returning or recycling a grill tank keeps it out of the trash, where it can be crushed, leak, or cause a fire. Even “empty” tanks often still contain propane vapor, which is an unnecessary safety and environmental hazard. It’s a quick step that protects people and reduces environmental impact.
Returning a Grill Tank
If you find yourself in a situation where you have a 20-pound propane tank you would like to get rid of, you should first check whether it can be reused by a CT retailer that offers propane cylinder refills or exchanges.
If they offer requalification services, their experts can determine whether it is safe for use and if it can be incorporated into their exchange program, keeping the tank in use longer and avoiding unnecessary waste.
Your Tank May Be Disqualified from Reuse or Recertification If It’s:
- Heavily rusted
- Damaged
- Punctured
- Deemed unusable by a qualified professional
Recycling a Grill Tank
If your 20-pound grill tank is disqualified for reuse or requalification, the second-best option is to recycle it by bringing it to a participating propane exchange cage for collection.
Many municipal waste facilities or transfer stations will not accept propane tanks due to the potential propane vapors, and disposing of them in other ways is both illegal and bad for our environment. Working with a company that understands the importance of propane safety will ensure your tank is recycled properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a propane cylinder refill or exchange location that offers these services?
The best way to find a retailer that will accept a BBQ grill propane tank for reuse or recycling is to call and ask if they offer requalification, return, or recycling services.
From here, they will be able to inform you of their process and what steps you may need to take to dispose of your tank with them.
Where can I find a supplier to recycle my BBQ grill tank?
These local propane suppliers have locations that will recycle your 20-lb propane tanks. Check out each brand to search for a location near you.
What size propane tanks will these locations accept?
These instructions are specific to 20-pound BBQ grill propane tanks in Connecticut.
Will these locations take 1-lb propane tanks?
The locations provided by the Grill Tank Loop are for 20-lb grill tanks only.
1-lb propane tanks are small and commonly green cylinders used with portable stoves, lanterns, and heaters. They are often used while camping, for cooking, or for DIY projects.
For those who wish to get rid of 1-pound propane tanks in CT, please visit cylindercollective.org to learn more about participating locations.
Who needs these services?
Anyone with an unwanted 20-pound propane tank! These tanks are commonly used for grills, outdoor patio heaters, space heaters, and gas firepits. Most commonly, we hear from:
- Homeowners
- Renters
- Fishers and hunters
- And more
Are there any other procedures I should follow?
In addition to not throwing away your BBG grill tank in the trash or improperly disposing of it, please do not attempt to cut or puncture the tank in any way, including removing the valve.
Learn more about propane grill tank safety on our Safety page.
Contact Our Experts
Do you have questions about returning or recycling your propane grill tank? We can help. Reach out to us, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.