Pressurized Gas Tanks

CAUTION: Pressurized tanks that contain gases such as propane, helium, etc. cannot be disposed in the regular trash or at the York County Resource Recovery Center due to risk of explosion and/or fire.

REUSE:  Refillable pressurized gas tanks in good usable condition may be able to be resold at garage sales or on internet platforms.  Oxygen tanks can often be returned for reuse to their original distributor/manufacturer.  Check the label and contact the company for more information.

RECYCLE: Pressurized gas tanks may be returned for reuse/recycling at some local businesses.  Below is a list of these companies.  Before delivering any tanks to these businesses, call to make sure they are still accepting these materials and ask about any associated fees or special instructions such as valve removal.  Helium tank company “Balloon Time” offers instructions for depressurizing their tanks here.  

YCSWA HHW EVENT:  Propane tanks larger than 20 lbs. and other pressurized tanks such as helium, oxygen, and welding tanks are accepted at the YCSWA Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Event.  Click here for more information.

TRASH:  Empty 16-ounce propane canisters can be disposed in the regular trash. To empty a 16-ounce propane canister, it must be used on a grill, lantern, or other device until the device turns off because there is no fuel left in the canister.