Aerosol Can Disposal Services

Safe Disposal of Aerosol Cans & Spray Products for Businesses Nationwide

Aerosol cans are regulated as universal waste or hazardous waste depending on their contents. From spray paints and lubricants to cleaners and solvents, proper disposal is required by EPA and state regulations. Hazardous Waste Disposal provides compliant aerosol can disposal services for businesses nationwide.

Call (800) 582-4833 for aerosol can disposal services or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com

What Are Aerosol Cans?

Aerosol cans are pressurized containers that dispense products as a spray or foam. When these cans contain hazardous materials or propellants, they become regulated waste that requires proper disposal. Even "empty" aerosol cans may still contain enough product and pressure to be considered hazardous.

Why Aerosol Cans Require Special Disposal:

  • Pressurized containers are reactive hazardous waste

  • Contents often flammable or toxic

  • Propellants may be hazardous

  • Can explode if punctured or heated

  • Cannot be disposed of in regular trash

  • EPA and state regulations mandate proper disposal

  • Fire hazard in trash compactors and landfills

Definition of "Empty":

  • Aerosol cans are NOT empty even when they stop spraying

  • Residual product and pressure remains

  • EPA considers aerosol cans as hazardous until properly managed

  • State regulations vary on empty container definitions

Common Types of Aerosol Cans

Automotive Aerosols

Maintenance Products:

  • Brake cleaner

  • Carburetor cleaner

  • Starting fluid

  • Engine degreasers

  • Tire shine and protectants

  • Undercoating spray

Lubricants:

  • WD-40 and penetrating oils

  • Silicone spray

  • White lithium grease

  • Chain lubricant

  • Anti-seize compounds

Paints & Coatings:

  • Automotive touch-up paint

  • Primer spray

  • Clear coat

  • Engine enamel

  • Rust converters

  • Undercoat and rubberized coatings

Hazards: Flammable, toxic solvents, VOCs

Industrial & Manufacturing Aerosols

Cleaning Products:

  • Contact cleaners (electronics)

  • Parts cleaners

  • Degreasers

  • Precision cleaners

  • Flux removers

  • Mold release agents

Lubricants & Maintenance:

  • Machine lubricants

  • Cutting fluid spray

  • Mold release

  • Anti-seize

  • Rust preventatives

Specialty Products:

  • Compressed air (dusters)

  • Freeze spray

  • Leak detectors

  • Marking paints

  • Adhesive sprays

Hazards: Flammable propellants, toxic solvents, VOCs

Paint & Coating Aerosols

Spray Paints:

  • Enamel spray paint

  • Lacquer spray paint

  • Acrylic spray paint

  • Metallic paints

  • Specialty finishes

Primers & Sealers:

  • Primer spray

  • Rust-inhibiting primer

  • Sealer spray

  • Clear coat

Specialty Coatings:

  • Texture spray

  • Stone finish

  • Rubberized coating

  • Plastic coating

  • Galvanizing spray

Hazards: Flammable, toxic pigments, high VOC content

Maintenance & Facility Aerosols

General Maintenance:

  • Multi-purpose lubricants

  • Penetrating oils

  • Cleaners and degreasers

  • Rust converters

  • Marking paints

HVAC Products:

  • Coil cleaner

  • Refrigerant leak detectors

  • Foaming coil cleaner

  • Condensate pan treatment

Pest Control:

  • Insect sprays

  • Wasp and hornet killers

  • Ant and roach sprays

  • Flea and tick spray

Hazards: Pesticides, flammable propellants, toxics

Construction & Specialty Aerosols

Sealants & Adhesives:

  • Expanding foam sealant

  • Spray adhesives

  • Construction adhesive

  • Gasket maker

  • Thread sealant

Marking & Layout:

  • Marking paint (construction)

  • Survey marking paint

  • Temporary marking spray

  • Stencil paint

Specialty Construction:

  • Concrete cure and seal

  • Asphalt sealer

  • Waterproofing spray

  • Concrete bonding agent

Hazards: Flammable, isocyanates (in some foams), VOCs

Household-Type Aerosols (Commercial Use)

Cleaning Products:

  • Glass cleaners

  • Furniture polish

  • Air fresheners

  • Fabric protectors

  • Oven cleaners

Personal Care (Facilities):

  • Air sanitizers

  • Disinfectant sprays

  • Odor eliminators

Hazards: Varies by product, generally less hazardous but still regulated

Industries That Generate Aerosol Can Waste

Automotive

  • Auto repair shops

  • Auto body shops

  • Car dealerships

  • Tire shops

  • Oil change facilities

  • Fleet maintenance

Manufacturing

  • Machine shops

  • Metal fabrication

  • Electronics manufacturing

  • Plastics manufacturing

  • Assembly operations

  • Maintenance departments

Construction

  • General contractors

  • Painting contractors

  • HVAC contractors

  • Electrical contractors

  • Plumbing contractors

Maintenance Operations

  • Building maintenance

  • Facility management

  • Property management

  • Equipment maintenance

  • Industrial maintenance

Retail & Distribution

  • Auto parts stores

  • Hardware stores

  • Paint stores

  • Industrial suppliers

  • Janitorial supply companies

Other Industries

  • Aviation maintenance

  • Marine vessel maintenance

  • Railroad maintenance

  • Pest control companies

  • Sign shops and graphics

Aerosol Can Regulations

EPA Federal Regulations

Universal Waste Rule (Most Common):

Many states allow aerosol cans to be managed as universal waste, which provides streamlined regulations:

Requirements:

  • Label containers "Universal Waste - Aerosol Cans" or "Waste Aerosol Cans"

  • Must be managed to prevent releases

  • One year accumulation limit

  • Cannot be intentionally punctured except by approved systems

  • Must be sent to proper recycling or disposal facility

Benefits:

  • Simplified management

  • No manifests required

  • Longer accumulation time

  • Reduced paperwork

Hazardous Waste Classification:

If not managed as universal waste, aerosol cans are typically:

  • D001 (Ignitable) due to propellants and flammable contents

  • May also be D002 (Corrosive) for some products

  • Specific waste codes based on contents (F-listed for some solvents)

Standard hazardous waste requirements:

  • Generator category applies

  • 90/180/270 day accumulation limits

  • Manifests required

  • More stringent management

State-Specific Regulations

California:

  • Aerosol cans are universal waste

  • Must recycle or properly dispose

  • Cannot be landfilled

  • CalRecycle requirements

Texas:

  • May be universal waste or hazardous waste

  • Generators must determine status

  • Disposal facility requirements

Florida:

  • Universal waste rule applies

  • One year accumulation limit

  • Proper labeling required

New York:

  • Universal waste management available

  • Strict disposal requirements

  • Recycling preferred

States without universal waste rule:

  • Must manage as hazardous waste

  • Standard RCRA requirements apply

RCRA Empty Container Rule

Important: RCRA empty container rule does NOT apply to aerosol cans. Even when they stop spraying, aerosols are not considered empty and remain regulated.

DOT Transportation

Hazardous Materials Regulations:

  • Aerosol cans are Class 2.1 (Flammable Gas) or 2.2 (Non-flammable Gas)

  • Proper shipping name required

  • Quantity limits for certain vehicles

  • Placarding may be required

  • We handle all DOT compliance

Our Aerosol Can Disposal Services

Regular Scheduled Pickup

Containerized collection service:

  • We provide proper collection containers

  • Weekly, monthly, or quarterly pickup

  • All transportation and disposal included

  • Complete documentation

  • Universal waste or hazardous waste handling

Service includes:

  • Proper collection drums or boxes

  • Correct labeling

  • Scheduled pickup

  • Recycling when possible

  • Disposal certificates

One-Time Pickup

For accumulated aerosols:

  • Facility cleanouts

  • Inventory reductions

  • Discontinued products

  • Facility closures

  • Project-based needs

Aerosol Can Puncturing Systems

For high-volume generators:

We can provide or recommend approved aerosol can puncturing systems that:

  • Safely puncture and drain cans

  • Capture propellants and liquid contents

  • Reduce volume by 80-90%

  • Lower disposal costs

  • Meet EPA requirements

Requirements for puncturing:

  • Must use approved system

  • Must be filtered to capture emissions

  • Liquids and cans must be properly managed

  • Not allowed in all states without proper equipment

When it makes sense:

  • Facilities generating 100+ cans monthly

  • ROI typically in 1-2 years

  • Reduces disposal costs significantly

Aerosol Can Recycling

We coordinate recycling when possible:

  • Steel can recycling

  • Propellant recovery

  • Environmentally preferred

  • May reduce costs vs. disposal

Recycling process:

  • Cans punctured at permitted facility

  • Contents recovered and managed

  • Steel recycled

  • Propellants captured

Container Supply

We provide:

  • 30-gallon and 55-gallon collection drums

  • Specialty aerosol collection boxes

  • Proper labels and signage

  • Secondary containment if needed

  • Multiple containers for high-volume facilities

Waste Characterization

For unusual or unknown aerosols:

  • Product identification

  • Hazard classification

  • EPA waste code determination

  • Proper disposal pathway

Proper Storage & Handling

Storage Requirements

Safe storage practices:

  • Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area

  • Keep away from heat sources

  • Protect from direct sunlight

  • Away from incompatible materials

  • Away from drains

  • Secured from unauthorized access

Temperature concerns:

  • Do not store above 120°F

  • Excessive heat can cause cans to explode

  • Avoid storage in direct sunlight or hot vehicles

  • Climate-controlled storage preferred

Container Requirements

Collection containers:

  • DOT-approved drums or boxes

  • Compatible with aerosol products

  • Proper capacity for generation rate

  • Closed except when adding cans

  • Good condition

Do NOT:

  • Use cardboard boxes (not adequate)

  • Store in plastic bags

  • Leave containers open

  • Store near flames or sparks

Labeling Requirements

Universal waste management:

  • Label: "Universal Waste - Aerosol Cans" or "Waste Aerosol Cans"

  • Date of first can added to container

  • Generator information

Hazardous waste management:

  • Label: "Hazardous Waste"

  • Contents description

  • EPA waste codes

  • Accumulation start date

  • Hazard warnings

Accumulation Time Limits

Universal waste:

  • One year maximum from date first can added

Hazardous waste:

  • LQG: 90 days

  • SQG: 180 days (270 if disposal >200 miles)

  • VSQG: No specific limit but don't exceed 2,200 lbs on-site

Safety Precautions

Handling:

  • Do not puncture or incinerate

  • Do not crush or compact

  • Wear safety glasses when handling

  • Avoid dropping or damaging

  • Keep valves intact

Never:

  • Throw in regular trash

  • Put in compactor

  • Puncture without approved equipment

  • Expose to flames or heat

  • Store with incompatible materials

Aerosol Can Disposal Costs

Cost Factors:

  • Number of cans

  • Type of aerosols (paint vs. maintenance products)

  • Service frequency

  • Your location

  • Universal waste vs. hazardous waste classification

  • Recycling vs. disposal options

Typical Pricing:

Per Can Disposal:

  • Small aerosols (under 12 oz): $2-$5 per can

  • Standard aerosols (12-16 oz): $3-$7 per can

  • Large aerosols (over 16 oz): $5-$10 per can

  • Paint aerosols: $4-$8 per can

By Drum/Container:

  • 30-gallon drum (60-80 cans): $250-$500

  • 55-gallon drum (100-150 cans): $400-$800

  • Aerosol collection box (varies): $200-$600

Regular Service Pricing:

  • Monthly pickup (small volume): $150-$400/month

  • Monthly pickup (medium volume): $400-$800/month

  • Quarterly pickup: $300-$900/quarter

High-Volume Options:

  • Puncturing system purchase: $2,000-$8,000

  • Pay per punctured can disposal: $0.50-$2.00 per can

  • Significant long-term savings for high volumes

Additional Costs:

  • Emergency pickup: Premium charges

  • One-time large cleanouts: Custom pricing

  • Remote locations: Transportation surcharge

Minimum pickup charge typically $150-$250

Call (800) 582-4833 for accurate pricing for your facility

Aerosol Waste Reduction

Purchasing Practices

Reduce aerosol generation:

  • Buy only what you need

  • Consider bulk alternatives where possible

  • Use pump sprayers for some applications

  • Purchase larger sizes (more product, less waste)

  • Share excess with other departments

Product Selection

Choose alternatives when possible:

  • Refillable spray bottles

  • Bulk products in reusable containers

  • Non-aerosol versions of products

  • Concentrate products

  • Mechanical spray equipment

Use Efficiency

Maximize product use:

  • Train staff on proper use

  • Use complete product before disposal

  • Don't over-order

  • Rotate stock (first in, first out)

  • Proper storage to prevent damage

Puncturing Systems

For high-volume generators:

  • Approved puncturing systems pay for themselves

  • 80-90% volume reduction

  • Lower disposal costs

  • Environmental benefits

  • Safety when done correctly

Common Aerosol Scenarios

Auto Body Shop

A busy body shop generates 150 aerosol cans monthly including spray paints, primers, cleaners, and brake cleaners. We provide weekly pickup with proper drums and universal waste handling. Cost: $600-$900/month.

Manufacturing Facility

A machine shop generates 50 aerosol cans monthly of various lubricants, cleaners, and marking paints. We provide monthly pickup service with one 55-gallon drum. Cost: $300-$500/month.

Building Maintenance Department

A large facility maintenance operation generates 200 aerosol cans quarterly including cleaners, lubricants, and pest control products. We provide quarterly pickup service. Cost: $500-$800/quarter.

Construction Contractor

A contractor has accumulated 500 aerosol cans from a large project including marking paints, expanding foam, and adhesives. We provide one-time pickup and disposal. Cost: $1,500-$2,500.

Auto Parts Store

An auto parts store generates 300 aerosol cans monthly from returns and damaged inventory. We installed an aerosol puncturing system and provide monthly pickup of punctured cans and recovered liquids. Cost: $400-$700/month (down from $1,200+ before puncturing system).

Why Choose Us for Aerosol Disposal

Regulatory Expertise

We understand EPA, DOT, and state regulations for aerosol cans. We ensure your disposal meets all requirements whether universal waste or hazardous waste.

Flexible Service Options

From small monthly pickups to large facility cleanouts, we scale to your needs.

Proper Classification

We help determine if your aerosols qualify for universal waste or require hazardous waste management.

Complete Documentation

All documentation, labels, and disposal certificates provided.

Recycling When Possible

We coordinate aerosol recycling to reduce environmental impact and potentially reduce costs.

Safety Focus

Proper containers, trained personnel, and safe handling procedures protect your facility and staff.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I throw aerosol cans in the regular trash? A: No. Even "empty" aerosol cans are pressurized and contain residual product. Disposing in trash is illegal and dangerous.

Q: Are aerosol cans hazardous waste? A: Most aerosols are hazardous waste, but many states allow them to be managed as universal waste with simplified requirements.

Q: What's the difference between universal waste and hazardous waste for aerosols? A: Universal waste allows simplified management (no manifests, longer accumulation time) but still requires proper disposal. Hazardous waste requires full RCRA compliance.

Q: Can I puncture aerosol cans myself? A: Not without an approved aerosol puncturing system that captures emissions and liquids. Puncturing without proper equipment is dangerous and illegal.

Q: How do I know when an aerosol can is empty? A: Under EPA rules, aerosol cans are never considered empty. Even when they stop spraying, residual product and pressure remains.

Q: Can aerosol cans explode? A: Yes, if exposed to heat, flames, or punctured improperly. They're pressurized containers and must be handled carefully.

Q: Should I remove the plastic caps before disposal? A: Not necessary. We accept aerosol cans with caps on. Don't remove valves or puncture cans.

Q: Can aerosol cans be recycled? A: Yes, through approved processes. The steel is recycled, contents are recovered, and propellants are captured. We coordinate recycling when possible.

Q: How should I store aerosol cans before pickup? A: In proper collection containers, in a cool dry area away from heat, properly labeled, and not exceeding accumulation time limits.

Q: What if I have really old aerosol cans? A: We can handle aerosols of any age. Very old cans may contain banned substances (like CFCs) and require special handling - we can manage these properly.

Q: Do you accept partially full aerosol cans? A: Yes, partially full cans are what we primarily handle. Try to use product completely, but if not possible, we'll dispose of whatever remains.

Q: What about compressed air dusters? A: Yes, compressed air cans for electronics are aerosols and should be included in your aerosol disposal program.

Aerosol Safety Tips

Workplace Safety

Handling precautions:

  • Wear safety glasses

  • Avoid dropping or damaging cans

  • Don't shake vigorously

  • Use in well-ventilated areas

  • Follow product label directions

Storage safety:

  • Keep away from heat and flames

  • Store at temperatures below 120°F

  • Don't store in vehicles

  • Separate from incompatibles

  • Secure from unauthorized access

Emergency Procedures

If aerosol can is leaking:

  • Evacuate area if severe

  • Ventilate if possible

  • Place in secondary containment

  • Call for emergency pickup if needed

  • Don't attempt to plug or puncture

If aerosol can is heated/bulging:

  • Do not handle

  • Evacuate area

  • Keep people away

  • Call fire department if in danger of explosion

  • Cool with water from safe distance if possible

In case of fire:

  • Evacuate immediately

  • Call 911

  • Aerosols can explode in fire

  • Don't attempt to fight aerosol fires without proper training

Get Started with Aerosol Can Disposal

Call (800) 582-4833 or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com

What to have ready:

  • Approximate number of cans generated monthly

  • Types of aerosols (paints, cleaners, lubricants, etc.)

  • Current accumulation on-site

  • Desired pickup frequency

  • Your facility type and location

We'll provide:

  • Free quote for your aerosol disposal

  • Proper collection containers

  • Correct labeling materials

  • Pickup scheduling

  • Universal waste or hazardous waste documentation

  • Recycling options when available

  • Regulatory compliance guidance

Services available:

  • Regular scheduled pickup

  • One-time cleanouts

  • Aerosol puncturing systems

  • Emergency pickup

  • Recycling coordination

  • Multi-location service

Serving businesses nationwide, since 1992 - expert aerosol can disposal with complete regulatory compliance

Safety First: Aerosol cans are pressurized containers that can explode if mishandled. Always store properly, never puncture without approved equipment, and keep away from heat sources. Proper disposal protects your employees and the environment.