Do you know what you must do with an expired fire extinguisher? Let’s explore more below.
You work hard to ensure your business location is thriving, and that includes keeping it safe from fire. One way of doing this is to have portable fire extinguishers in all the correct places around your commercial property. But what about when your fire extinguishers reach the end of their lifespan? Do you know what you must do with an expired fire extinguisher? Let’s explore more below.
Lifecycle of a Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers can survive for up to two decades if they are properly maintained and inspected regularly. Ideally, it’s advisable to purchase a new one if it is over 15 years old past its manufacturing date. You can locate the manufacture date on the label or the bottom of the fire extinguisher to determine how old it is.
Replacing Your Commercial Extinguisher
To avoid an expired fire extinguisher, you should replace disposable extinguishers (non-rechargeable) every 12 years. On the other hand, consider disposing of rechargeable extinguishers if they demonstrate any of the following problems:
- Cracked or clogged nozzle
- A missing or broken pin
- Damaged outer shell
- A failed hydrostatic test
- Slow loss of pressure despite not being used frequently
- Wobbly or broken handle
- Missing inspection tag
What to Complete with an Expired Fire Extinguisher
You can’t throw away an expired fire extinguisher because it contains hazardous substances. Sometimes, specific components may be fixable, particularly if the fire extinguisher is new. If you are unsure whether to replace or repair an extinguisher with damage, contact Judd Fire Protection at 410-871-3480 for an inspection. Our expert fire protection specialists will provide professional advice depending on our discovery.
If you have an expired fire extinguisher, you will need to replace it. High-pressure chemicals can be dangerous if you or anyone else mishandles them. Here is what to do with an expired extinguisher:
- If your company has a partially or fully charged fire extinguisher, contact your local fire department to determine if they accept drop-offs or take the canister to a hazardous disposal site.
- Empty the fire extinguisher to eliminate all the pressure by squeezing the discharge gauge. Although the pressure gauge may say empty, wait several days and attempt to ensure it is actually empty. Then, contact a recycling place to ask when to drop off the steel canister.
Overall, our fire protection experts can recharge existing units and supply new extinguishers when needed.
Commercial and Residential Fire Prevention from Judd Fire Protection
If you want to ensure your home and business are safe throughout the year, trust Judd Fire Protection, LLC. We have over two decades of experience designing, installing, inspecting, and repairing residential and commercial fire protection systems. We serve clients throughout Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia. If you are interested in finding out more about our services and protecting your home and business, call Judd Fire Protection at 410-871-3480. Follow us on Facebook, X, and Pinterest