It's crucial that you know when you're in need of a fire extinguisher replacement. You should never use an expired extinguisher and it would be terrible if your device didn't work in the event of a fire.
Fire extinguishers play a significant role in protecting the environment and fighting against fires. As a matter of fact, fire extinguishers are the difference between a minor fire and a conflagration in over 600 businesses and non-residential buildings every day in America.
That's why it's so important to know the signs that indicate you need a fire extinguisher replacement. In this blog, we will discuss how to determine whether or not your disposable, portable, or rechargeable fire extinguisher needs to be replaced. Then we will discuss how to properly dispose of your extinguisher if it's expired.
Signs You Need a Fire Extinguisher Replacement
When to Replace a Disposable Fire Extinguisher
As a good rule of thumb, you should plan to replace your disposable fire extinguisher every 12 years. If you aren't sure how old your extinguisher is then you can check the pressure gauge on a monthly basis to ensure it's still functional.
When to Replace a Portable Fire Extinguisher
Your portable fire extinguisher should last about 10 to 12 years. Around that time you should schedule a hydrostatic test to ensure the outer shell is still in good shape. A hydrostatic test will examine the pressure of your extinguisher using water or another non-compressible fluid. It must be performed by an approved extinguisher servicing company. If the extinguisher passes the test then you can recharge it and use it for another couple of years.
When to Replace a Rechargeable Fire Extinguisher
For rechargeable fire extinguishers, you will need to replace them if any of the following issues occur:
- Device is slowly losing pressure
- Hose or nozzle is clogged, cracked, or ripped
- Handle is broken or wobbly
- Locking pin is broken or detached
- Outer shell is damaged
- Inspection tag is not attached
- Fails hydrostatic test
How to Dispose of Your Fire Extinguisher
Because fire extinguishers are filled with pressurized chemicals, you should never dispose of them in the trash can. Below are the steps you should take in order to safely discard your fire extinguisher.
If the fire extinguisher is not empty:
- Speak with a professional from the fire department and ask if you can drop the extinguisher off with them at the firehouse.
- If you can't drop it off at the firehouse then take it to a hazardous waste disposal facility to safely get rid of it.
If the fire extinguisher is empty:
- Squeeze the lever in order to release all of the pressure.
- Take off the fire extinguisher head.
- After you have completely emptied the fire extinguisher and removed the head, you should be able to drop off the body at a recycling facility.
Speak with a Fire Protection Professional
Frontier Fire can answer any fire protection or fire extinguisher related questions you may have. We have been Colorado's leader in fire safety for almost 60 years. Give us a call today at 303-629-0221 to ensure your building is protected with the highest quality equipment.
