Camping guides
How to dispose of empty camping gas canisters safely
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It would be remiss to set up camp in New Zealand without lighting up a good old barbecue. It’s the perfect way to feed a crowd and can cook a range of different foods while immersing yourself in nature. Of course, one question you have to ask is how to dispose of empty camping gas canisters when you’re done? It’s not ideal (or practical) to carry them around with you for the trip so instead, use these steps to learn how to get rid of empty canisters safely.
Note: this information is intended for use as a general guide only. Please read the manufacturer instructions for your specific gas canister before disposing of it.
How to dispose of empty camping gas canisters: step-by-step guide
If you’re looking at how to dispose of empty camping gas canisters, here’s your step-by-step guide to get the job done safely.
1. Check the canister
If you already know how to use a butane camping stove, you’ll be aware that a canister that isn’t empty still contains pressurised and potentially explosive fuel. Before you even look at how to dispose of empty camping gas canisters, it’s important to ensure the canister is actually empty.
You can do this by pouring hot water down the side of the canister. Next, use your hand to determine where the temperature of the canister changes from warmer to colder. This will help to show you how much gas it has left inside.
2. Empty out the canister
To make sure the gas is completely out of the canister, you have two options:
Puncture: Puncture the canister to drain any remaining liquid. Make sure you do this outside in the open air. Fill it with water and let it flush through the puncture, as this will ensure all the gas is gone. Then leave it to dry out. A Jetboil Crunchit Can Recycling Tool is very handy to have on hand for this one.
Burn: Connect your canister to the stove and try to light the flame. Let any of the remaining gas inside burn off.
Choosing one of these steps will help to ensure it can be safely crushed at a recycling centre.
3. Mark canister as empty
Next, you need to make it clear to everyone that the gas canister is empty. It helps to puncture a few holes at the top using the same tool above. Write very clearly ‘EMPTY’ next to these holes.
4. Find a recycling centre
Now it’s time to take the empty gas canister down to the local recycling centre where they will recycle and dispose of it safely for you.
It’s important to do your research to find out where you can take your empty gas canister. It can help to chat with other campers in your area. One option is heading to an EcoDrop recycling centre.
If you’re ending your trip in Auckland, you can also take them to one of these transfer stations:
Green Island Landfill
Invercargill Transfer Station
What
Inside a gas canister, gases are compressed into a liquid and stay in this state at a low pressure. Knowing this, it’s important to avoid high levels of pressure, which come from being crushed with the general rubbish. In fact, pressurised gas cylinders should never be disposed of at landfills or rubbish sites, as they can pose a serious safety risk when compacted.
When it comes to how to dispose of empty camping gas canisters, there are a few things you need to avoid:
Don’t put them in a rubbish bin, as they have the potential to explode when crushed.
Avoid leaving any gas left in the canister. They need to be completely empty first.
Do not store gas bottles in hot spaces.
Never dispose of your gas canisters in the general trash.
Never leave your gas canister (empty or not) behind at a campaign site.
Do not place gas canisters out for council collection.
Can you recycle camping gas canisters?
Yes, you can recycle camping gas canisters. The brilliant thing about gas canisters is that they can be returned to the supplier, refilled and used again. Instead of tossing it in the rubbish, check the canister manufacturers options for recycling, as many offer a return and reuse system.
Hire a van for your New Zealand camping trip
Now that you know how to dispose of empty camping gas canisters, it’s time to set off and get cooking! Many Camplify campervans come with portable camping stoves and gas included. Sort campervan hire on the North Island or campervan hire on the South Island and hit the road for an amazing adventure with equally amazing food. There’s nothing better than pulling into a campsite at the end of a long day sightseeing and firing up the barbecue for a delicious feast!
Want to learn more? Read more about different camp stove fuel types.
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