How many years is a fire extinguisher good for? Unfortunately, replacing a fire extinguisher is not common among many homeowners and people in business. There’s always a perception that this equipment does not need replacing. However, a fire extinguisher needs replacing in time for it to serve you as needed.
How do I know if a fire extinguisher is expired?
1. Visible Corrosion
Perhaps you’re sticking with your fire extinguisher until it shows wear and tear. One of the most visible signs that it needs replacing is corrosion. If you can see any sign of physical damage, such as dents, cracks, or leaks, it’s time to let go of your unit. The fire extinguisher may not work correctly when needed if any parts are not in good condition. In such a case, it’s best to buy a new one rather than wait for something bad to happen.
2. Age of the Fire Extinguisher
Aside from visual inspection, another way to know if your fire extinguisher needs replacing is by checking its age. The typical rule is to replace it every six years, but this may also depend on the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to check with the company or the store where you bought it. However, if the fire extinguisher is more than 12 years old, it’s most likely already expired, and you need to get a new one as soon as possible.
3. Type of Fire Extinguisher
Another major aspect to consider when determining how often to replace your fire extinguisher is the type of unit you have. For instance, if you have a Class ABC fire extinguisher, you need to replace it every 12 years. On the other hand, if you have a Class D fire extinguisher, you only need to replace it every 25 years. Therefore, sometimes age is not the only factor to consider, but rather the type of fire extinguisher.
4. Weight or Pressure Loss
Pressure loss is an indication that your fire extinguisher is not working correctly. You can check this by weighing the unit or checking its pressure gauge. If it’s significantly lighter than when you first bought it, or if the pressure gauge shows a decrease in pressure, it needs to be replaced immediately.
You need to be professional and very careful with this type of fire extinguisher because it might not work when you need it the most. Remember, a fire extinguisher is only good for one-time use. Once it’s been discharged, you need to get a new one as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Knowing how often to replace your fire extinguisher is very important to ensure that it will work properly when needed. Be sure to check for any signs of corrosion, wear and tear, or pressure loss. If you’re unsure, you can always ask the manufacturer or the store where you bought it. However, you should replace your fire extinguisher every six years as a general rule. Call Carpet Capital Fire Protection Inc. today for all your fire safety needs.