There are essentially two types of fire extinguishers: rechargeable and disposable. You can check which kind you have by checking the gauge. Rechargeable ones will read either “charge” or in the green, “overcharge” or “recharge,” and disposable ones will read “full” or “empty.”
If you have a disposable extinguisher, they cannot be recharged. This type of extinguisher needs to replaced after use or once the chemicals have become ineffective and depressurized typically at least every 12 years.
On the other hand, rechargeable fire extinguishers contain pressurized chemicals, but the cannister is designed to be “recharged” or “refilled.” They need to be recharged after every use even if not all of the contents were used and also every six years even without use.
How to Tell if an Extinguisher is Expired- One of the best things you can do is a visual inspection of your extinguisher to ensure the gauge is in the green area. If it’s in the red, it indicates the extinguisher is in need of a recharge or it has been overcharged.
- If you use a fire extinguisher to put out a fire, you will of course need to replace it if it’s disposable or recharge it if it’s rechargeable.
- But, another important aspect to keep track of is the condition of the extinguisher. If a cannister is dented or the tamper seal or pin is missing, it needs to be replaced immediately, as there is a risk of explosion. Remember, the contents are under pressure, and so any damaged fire extinguishers need to be removed promptly to an area far away from people.
- Additionally, maintenance inspections should be done on an annual basis by a certified fire and life safety company. While inspections by you as the consumer are great, professionals or trained fire equipment inspector can look with a trained eye to identify any potential issues with any extinguishers. They can also conduct hydrostatic testing, which tests the integrity of the extinguisher’s cylinder, to make sure it’s safe.
What to Do with Expired Extinguishers
Your fire extinguisher is expired or damaged – now what?
If it simply needs to be recharged, then you should contact a professional fire company. Total risk advisory consultants can organize this as well. Please contact us for quotations.
If the extinguisher is disposable or damaged, then properly disposing of the unit is critical. Fire extinguishers with any contents remaining inside should never be thrown in the trash, as they contain hazardous, pressurized chemicals. Instead, fire extinguishers should be taken to your local hazardous waste location or a local fire department. |
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