Gas bottles, whether full, empty or old, are always considered dangerous goods. They are therefore subject to strict regulations that must also be observed when disposing of them. These bottles are not allowed to go in the trash!
Dangers from empty and old gas bottles
Gas bottles that have been emptied through use are not really empty. There is still a residual amount of gas in them, which is why they are still flammable. Old gas bottles could also be in a condition that can no longer be described as safe. There is also something called an expiry date for gas bottles, which is documented by a test sticker. If this has expired, special caution is advised when handling them.
Household waste and recycling centers are out of the question
Opening the lid of the garbage can and disposing of an old or empty gas bottle is certainly a time-saving temptation. But this is prohibited by law and violations can result in pen alties. A responsible person will also not take the risk that people may come to harm in the future. A recycling center is also not responsible for accepting pressure containers.
Return deposit bottles to the dealer
Propane gas bottles for private use are mainly deposit bottles. The buyer pays a deposit for them, which is refunded by the dealer when the container is returned. You can usually recognize such bottles by their red color. They also have a logo of the supplier who owns the bottle. You can return the bottle to authorized locations. The retailer will service the returned bottle and then refill it for sale. If it is no longer usable, it will be disposed of according to regulations.
Note:
When transporting the bottle, make sure that it cannot tip over or roll back and forth in the car.
Exchange the used bottle for a new bottle
So-called usage bottles are usually gray in color and have a red lid. When these propane gas bottles are used up, they are exchanged for a new one at the dealer. There are no additional costs for safety testing and maintenance as these are already included in the purchase price. Possible acceptance points include:
- Hardware stores
- Camping outfitter
- various gas stations
Tip:
Even if an exchange is no longer desired, the exchange stations are the right place to go. You are legally authorized to even accept gas bottles. But it's best to inquire by telephone in advance whether the position you have chosen is willing to do this.
Using old gas bottles
A gas bottle whose expiry date has expired according to the test sticker or stamp does not necessarily have to be thrown away. First of all, it can and can be used up as long as it is undamaged and tight. In practice, such bottles rarely pose a problem because when they are replaced, the expiry date is checked and updated if necessary.
Hire a waste disposal company
If a gas bottle is damaged or you cannot find a dealer nearby who will take it back, your only option is to go to a specialist waste disposal company. For example, the current market leader Air Liquide. The company has acceptance points throughout Germany. It also accepts foreign gas bottles, regardless of their condition. There are also regional waste disposal companies that also offer disposal services. Which company you prefer certainly depends on the price they charge and how much time you will spend.
“Special” gas bottles
In addition to the fuel and liquid gas bottles common in the household, empty or old oxygen bottles, helium bottles or bottles with unknown contents or unknown origin also occasionally have to be disposed of. Certified waste disposal companies are also responsible here. They usually offer the following services:
- Checking the bottle before transport
- professional removal of the bottle
- Identification of unknown content
- Checking valves for damage
- environmentally compliant recycling / disposal
Gas bottles as scrap metal
A gas bottle that has been completely emptied and can no longer be reused is considered scrap metal and can be taken to or picked up by the waste dealer. But be careful: opening the valve on the old bottle for a longer period of time is not emptying within the meaning of the legal regulations. It needs to be professionally drained!
Note:
The remaining content of a gas bottle can be easily determined by weighing it. However, the weight of the pure bottle must be known.
