I have a First Alert kitchen fire extinguisher. It is dated 1989. Is it still good?

Question

When I push the green test button on top it pops back up, like it should if it is good, but I am afraid to trust it after 17 or 18 years.

Answer 1

Phew... that's an old one.

If the button pops back up and you've never used it, it's probably fine, but WAY past inspection dates.

NFPA 10, requires to have have all units checked annually. Stored pressure dry chemical types (like your First Alert unit there) are also subject to a 6-year maintenance (an internal inspection, o-ring and seal changes, and recharge of the unit) and a 12-year hydrotest (a pressure check of the units shell and the 6-year thing again.)

Of course, all that's only enforced commercially.

My advice is you can keep it. But I would highly recommend getting another unit, preferably one with a METAL head and a PRESSURE GUAGE, not a plastic-headed disposable unit with a turkey timer test button.

Check you yellow pages for 'fire extinguishers' and give them a visit and stay away from places like Wal*Mart and Home Depot. Ask for brands like Ansul, Amerex, or Badger.

https://www.ansul.com/en/Products/hand_portable/redline_sentry.asp
http://www.amerexfire.com/Literature/abc.pdf
http://www.badgerfire.com/utcfs/Templates/Pages/Template-53/0,8062,pageId%3D6046%26siteId%3D603,00.html

Good luck, be safe, God Bless.

Answer 2

Yes it should be good, should have a gauge on it showing the pressure if it reads in the OK then it is. Al long as they are not used they remain in good condition for years

Answer 3

Im sure the expiry is a year or less not 17.

Answer 4

why not take it to,or call your local fire department and ask them. usually they are tested once a year,for business's. i don't know about home ones.

Answer 5

Pretend that your life hangs in the balance--and it actually might if you don't replace it--then go get a new one. Your life is worth it.