2 Mistakes To Avoid When Disposing Of Your Partially Full Aerosol Paint Cans

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If you have several old partially full aerosol paint cans cluttering up your shed or garage, you may decide that it is time to get rid of them. However, before you simply throw them in the garbage, make sure you avoid the following mistakes when disposing of your paint cans.

1.  Throwing Away Cans with Paint Still in Them

In many states, paint is considered a hazardous waste. Because of this, you cannot just throw the cans in the trash while they are still full. Depending on your area, you could be fined if it is found that you have thrown them away in the regular garbage.

Before you dispose of the cans, you must make sure they are fully emptied. Usually, you can tell if the can is empty by listening to it while shaking it. The bead inside will rattle around freely. However, if the paint can is very old, it may be more difficult to tell whether or not the can has paint inside of it. Fortunately, there is a way you can make sure the can is empty, which is trying to spray it.

To do this, lay a few newspapers on a flat surface either outside or in a ventilated room, and point the nozzle toward the ground. If there is any paint in the can, continue spraying until paint no longer comes out. Then, contact a local disposal service to see what to do with the empty cans.

2.  Puncturing the Cans to Empty Them

After attempting to spray the cans, you may discover that it still sounds like there is paint inside. Because of the age of the nozzle, it may not engage correctly anymore. Because of this, you may be tempted to use a screwdriver to puncture the cans so you can empty the paint out of them.

However, you should never attempt to punch a hole in pressurized cans. Even if there is no paint inside of them, you run the risk of having the cans explode in your face and severely injuring you. If you have full cans that you cannot empty, call your local refuse company to find out what you should do with them.

If the paint cans are made from steel, you may be able to dispose of them once they have been emptied of paint. Contact a recycling center that offers aerosol disposal services for more information about the process in your particular state.

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26 February 2019

Get Green When Moving

About 10 years ago, I moved into my current home. Without being environmentally conscious at the time, I didn’t give much thought to how I moved my belongings from my old place to my current abode. However, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to appreciate the environment much more. I realize that we only have a certain amount of resources and should do everything in our power to conserve them. Nowadays, you can plan a green move easier than ever before. Some moving companies offer reusable containers for you to pack your stuff in. The amount of green transportation options is constantly increasing. On this blog, you will learn how to get green on your next move.