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Understanding the expiry dates on a fire extinguisher—and the signs that a unit may be past its prime—can mean the difference between successfully handling an emergency and being caught empty-handed. Fire extinguishers last between 5 and 15 years. Regardless of the extinguishing media they contain, all extinguishers have expiration dates and become ineffective over time. Household fire extinguishers, which are typically filled with dry chemicals such as carbon dioxide or halon, lose their charge over time. Those that contain compressed gas can leak their contents slowly as their seals weaken. Still other units contain ammonium phosphate, which solidifies over time and renders the device unusable.
The good news is that some fire extinguishers can be professionally recharged when they’re near (or, in some cases, past) the expiration of their original charge. Here’s what you need to know about evaluating your extinguisher’s condition and expiration, and how to service and maintain the unit so it’s ready to use when you need it.
Check for an expiration date.
There should be a paper tag on the fire extinguisher showing its 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. Replace it with a new model.
Photo: Amazon
Amerex 5-Pound B500 ABC Fire ExtinguisherTh
This Amerex ABC fire extinguisher is suitable for most household fires. Read the review.
Photo: Amazon
Inspect the pressure gauge.
If the needle is within the green zone on the gauge, it is OK to use the fire extinguisher. Set up a monthly calendar reminder to check the gauge. A needle in the red or white area indicates that it requires service.
If the extinguisher has no gauge, it’s probably an older model, which means it would be wise to take it to a professional for testing and, if necessary, recharging.
Ask a pro about recharging it.
To find a local fire extinguisher pro, search for “fire extinguisher specialist near me.” A professional recharge typically runs between $15 and $20, which is a bargain compared to a new extinguisher, which can cost $100 or more, depending on the type of fire extinguisher you have.
Store the unit properly.
Exposure to sun, UV radiation, wind, or rain can cause corrosion, rust, and deterioration. Excessively dusty or dirty environments can hamper the device’s ability to function properly.
Recognize the signs of a broken fire extinguisher.
There are several telltale clues that your extinguisher won’t work no matter what its age—and that, in fact, it poses a hazard all its own. If the canister is dented or bruised, or if the tamper seal and pin are missing, there’s a possibility that it might explode unprompted. Examine the entire unit and if it’s not in good shape, dispose of it without delay.
Dispose of it properly.
Take it to your local hazardous waste collection site or local fire department (call first to ensure that the station accepts expired extinguisher drop-offs). Never throw a fire extinguisher into the trash or recycling bin, because it still has hazardous, pressurized chemicals inside that can contaminate the earth or even explode. Depending on where you live, improper fire extinguisher disposal may also be subject to a fine.
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