However, your fire extinguisher will only work well if it has not reached its date of expiration. Like every other thing you know, a fire extinguisher can expire. Unfortunately, not everyone knows this. When left unused for far too long, the extinguisher tends to lose its ability to extinguish fires .
Is it bad to use an expired fire extinguisher?
Simply put, you should not use an expired fire extinguisher . However, with proper care and maintenance, your fire extinguisher should be able to last 10 – 12 years. In the event that your fire extinguisher is no longer safe to use, we can also provide you with a new one. ...
What happens if you use an out of date fire extinguisher?
This will reduce the pressure of the extinguisher which is needed for it to perform. The handle is broken, shaky or weak . The pin is absent or has been previously released. The hose is cracked, split or shows other signs of damage.
Can you exchange expired fire extinguishers?
For fully or partially charged fire extinguishers, call your local fire department and ask if you can drop off expired fire extinguishers at the firehouse. If they don’t accept old canisters, take your extinguishers to a hazardous waste disposal facility.
How do you know if a fire extinguisher is out of date?
Check for an expiration date.
Look for a paper tag on the fire extinguisher showing a record of maintenance . It may not connote an expiration date, but if the oldest date on the tag was more than 10 years ago, your extinguisher’s days are likely numbered—it may already have lost its ability to fight flames.
Do fire extinguishers really expire?
Even if there’s no expiration date , it won’t last forever. Manufacturers say most extinguishers should work for 5 to 15 years, but you might not know if you got yours three years ago or 13. ... If it falls anywhere else, the extinguisher is unreliable and should be serviced or replaced.
Is a 20 year old fire extinguisher still good?
Although they don’t have a true “expiration date,” traditional fire extinguishers generally have a 10-12 year life expectancy . Disposable fire extinguishers should be replaced every 12 years. Rechargeable fire extinguishers should be taken to an experienced fire equipment company and recharged every 10 years.
Can a fire extinguisher go off by itself?
While a leaking or depressurized fire extinguisher isn’t dangerous in and of itself (the gas won’t cause damage to people, for example), its dangers are nevertheless serious . A lack of pressure causes a fire extinguisher to be inoperable.
How much are empty fire extinguishers worth?
On average, unrestored soda-acid fire extinguishers are worth around $100 to $200 but normally sell for about half of their estimated values.
How do you dispose of unwanted fire extinguishers?
Fire extinguishers should be taken to larger Household Waste Recycling Centres for disposal. Fire extinguishers are classified as hazardous waste and need to be disposed of carefully. For safety reasons, most councils ask for the handles to be securely taped together or the safety pin to be in place.
Can you refill fire extinguishers?
Any time you use your fire extinguisher , it will need to be refilled or recharged before you can use it again. Fire extinguishers also need to be recharged occasionally as part of their regular maintenance routine. It’s best to have your extinguisher refilled and serviced by a trained fire safety professional.
How long does a 10 lb fire extinguisher last?
The approximate discharge time for 10 to 20 pounds of dry chemical ranges from 10 to 25 seconds .
Why do fire extinguishers expire?
Over time, factors such as damage, rust and corrosion can cause a fire extinguisher to lose its ability to operate properly. ... While these materials don’t expire , the fire extinguisher can become depressurized over time, and the lack of pressure causes the extinguisher to become inoperable.
How often should you replace fire extinguisher?
Even in pristine condition, a fire extinguisher should be replaced every 12 years and may need to be recharged after 6. Anyone who lights candles, cooks often or just has matches in the house can benefit from a nearby fire extinguisher.
What is the OSHA standard for fire extinguishers?
NFPA recommends one 2-A fire extinguisher for every 3,000 square feet. OSHA requires employees to have access to an extinguisher within 75 feet . Employees should have access to a fire extinguisher within either 30 or 50 feet, depending on the hazard in question and the rating of the extinguisher (see below).
How long can a fire extinguisher be used for?
How long should a fire extinguisher last? Fire extinguishers can last for anywhere between ten and twenty years if properly maintained. The lifetime of an extinguisher can vary depending on the manufacturer and style, but all extinguishers can have their life extended by proper care and maintenance.
