How can I recycle my old propane gas tank that can no longer be refilled?

E: The Environmental Magazine, Jan-Feb, 2004 by Laura Ruth Zandstra

--Bruce Krasnow, Santa Fe, NM

If you have an older propane gas tank that has been denied refilling by retailers, it is probably because it lacks an Overfilling Prevention Device (OPD). As a of April 2002, the National Fire Protection Agency's (NFPA) safety code requires an OPD on every propane tank that holds between four and 40 pounds of the gas, which includes tanks normally used for grills, RVs and other devices. An OPD is part of the valve and is designed to prevent spills and release of gas during heating, which can lead to fires and injuries. All tanks produced after September 1998 are equipped with these devices. "Old propane tanks have hand wheels that are round or star shaped, while new tanks have triangular wheels with the OPD stamp," says the NFPA.

For a fee, you can take your old tank to a propane dealer for retrofitting with a new valve. You can also pay a fee and exchange your old tank for a new one. If you've already purchased a new unit, or don't need to use propane anymore, there are a number of ways to recycle the old cylinders. Some dealers are able to refurbish and reuse old tanks. If all else fails, the cylinders can be recycled as scrap metal at your local metal yard. CONTACT: NFPA, (617)770-3000, www.nfpa.org.

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