How often should I replace my fire extinguisher?

Question

I have a fire extinguisher about 3 years old. What should I do? Thanks.

Answer 1

Most home style fire extinguishers are not serviceable or refillable. Some are but most are not. In my area to have a fire extinguisher serviced runs around $20 each. As you know, you can go down to your local wally-mart and purchase a new for around the same cost.

If you are in question about the integrity of your safety equipment, it's better of to replace it. The new unit should have an expiration date indicated on the box or extinguisher. Make a note of it life expectancy with a black Sharpe on the bottom and then replace it as needed.

Answer 2

All dry chemical fire extinguishers have a dial that indicates if it is charged. If you have a foam type, same deal. I have not seen a liquid one in a long time. If you do, its time to get a new one.

Answer 3

Even if the pressure guage reads OK the sodium bicarb can pack down and harden after that much time. If it is the serviceable type, get it serviced. If not, buy another.

Answer 4

take it and have it check out there or most of the time is a tag on them stateing when it needs to be looked at again or look at the pressure gauge and if its in the "red zone" I think it says check or replace

Answer 5

As long as the gauge shows that it's still fully charged just keep it reasonably clean and easily accessible.

Answer 6

call your local non- emergency number to your fire dept. & ask who you call to have it inspected