4 Considerations in Determining a Fire Extinguisher’s Lifespan
A fire extinguisher plays a vital role in the fire safety of any commercial property. As the name implies, this fire-protection device controls and stops small flames before they escalate into a fire outbreak during emergency situations. It works by cooling the burning materials, preventing oxygen from touching the flame, and blocking chemical reactions. This is why it’s easy to see them installed in various places, whether in business establishments or other buildings.
Rechargeable fire extinguishers have no fixed universal service life: they stay in service as long as they pass inspection, maintenance, and hydrostatic testing, while disposable units are retired no later than 12 years after the manufacture date. There are a few factors that can influence an extinguisher’s longevity. While some variables prolong its lifespan, a few others can make it wear out prematurely.
When you are trying to determine the lifespan of your fire protection device, here are four factors to consider:
1. Disposable fire extinguishers for homes
Most homeowners opt for disposable home fire extinguishers. As the name implies, they can be disposed of because they are typically made of plastic valves and aluminum cylinders. Disposable (non-rechargeable) extinguishers are retired no later than 12 years after the manufacture date, according to NFPA 10. To identify this, all it takes is to check the cylinder and read the manufacturer’s dates and instructions.
2. Commercial fire extinguishers for business
Unlike disposable home extinguishers, commercial rechargeable fire extinguishers have no fixed life. They are typically installed in various areas in a given building for fire safety and protection, and they can stay in service with regular upkeep. Stored-pressure dry chemical (refillable) extinguishers should be emptied and given internal maintenance every six years. For the most part, they should be hydrostatically tested every 5 or 12 years depending on the type and shell material (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157) to ensure that they’re in top shape and working condition. Finally, keep in mind that they must be inspected by licensed fire protection professionals annually per the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
3. Uses and applications of fire extinguishers
For the most part, fire extinguishers are installed per fire safety guidelines in your commercial property. Even if you have one in your home, know where to position it visibly. However, part of the overall equation is to have proper installation and use because you don’t want your family members or employees to play with them that can potentially lead to injuries and damages. To make them last longer than usual, be sure to take good care of them.
4. Maintenance service and its frequency
As fire extinguishers aren’t designed to last forever, scheduling regular maintenance for them makes all the difference. As mentioned above, they must be inspected once a year by professionals, and stored-pressure dry chemical extinguishers are internally maintained every six years. With this required upkeep, expect them to last for as long as possible!
Conclusion
At this point, you now know what to consider when assessing the lifespan of your fire extinguisher. When you consider the factors mentioned above, you’ll be able to predict how long your fire protection devices will last. Ultimately, you have to ensure they are highly functional and useful just when you need them the most!
We offer a wide selection of fire protection systems and services for your restaurant, commercial business, and apartment buildings. If you need a fire extinguisher inspection in New Jersey, get in touch with us today to see how we can help! We also test cylinders on the NFPA 10 schedule: see fire extinguisher hydrostatic testing in NJ.