Oxygen Tanks

Alternative ways to recycle
Illegal in Garbage & Drains
Household Hazardous Waste

Drop-off is available twice a month by appointment only on Saturdays for household hazardous waste and/or universal waste. Acceptable items include over-the-counter and prescription medications, fluorescent light tubes, motor oil and used motor oil, antifreeze, paint, chemicals (pool and others), household cleaners, and pesticides. The majority of medications are accepted as household hazardous waste excluding controlled substances. Some items can be dropped off at the HHW Facility without an appointment and during hours of operation. These items include: sharps waste (syringes or lancets) properly packaged for safe disposal, (used) motor oil, filters and antifreeze. Proof of residency is required.

To make an appointment to drop off your household hazardous waste on the next available Saturday at the Waste Management HHW Facility at 2880 Industry Street, please call Waste Management’s Customer Service line at (760) 439-2824.

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Do Not Put in Garbage

Because oxygen tanks can be pressurized, never dispose of them at the curb as garbage.

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Store Carefully

Although oxygen itself isn’t flammable, it can cause flammable substances to ignite. Store oxygen tanks in a cool, well-ventilated area away from people and anything flammable.

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Empty the Tank

Before disposing, empty an unwanted oxygen tank by opening the valve and leaving it open, allowing all remaining oxygen to drain out.

Alternative Ways to Recycle

Recycle With Scrap Metal

Since oxygen tanks are made from steel or aluminum, some scrap metal recyclers accept them for recycling. Find out what to do with scrap metal.

Contact the Retailer or Manufacturer

If listed on your oxygen tank, contact the manufacturer or retailer and see if you can return the tank to them. Medical cylinders and scuba tanks are generally accepted by the manufacturer or retailer.

Ways to Reduce

Refill Your Oxygen Tank

Most oxygen tanks can be refilled and used again. For medical oxygen, contact a medical equipment supplier. For scuba oxygen, contact a dive shop.

Did You Know?

What Are Oxygen Tanks Used For?

Oxygen tanks are used for a variety of purposes, primarily to help with breathing due to medical issues, or during activities such as scuba diving, mountaineering or flying an aircraft. Industrial purposes for oxygen tanks include cutting, welding, metal refining and chemical processing.