Fire Extinguisher Disposal
When to Replace a Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers do not have a definitive expiration date, but they typically last 10-12 years. If you are unsure how old your fire extinguisher is or inherited one in a new property, replacing it is the safest option.
Visually inspect your fire extinguisher to determine if it needs replacement. Next, look for damage or disrepair. The hose, nozzle, handle and locking pin should all be in place and have no cracks or damages.
The pressure gauge should be in the green section, indicating the fire extinguisher is fully pressurized. Minor damages or factory errors could cause fire extinguishers to release pressure over time, which diminishes its effectiveness in an emergency.
Signs your fire extinguisher should be replaced include:
- Pressure gauge displays in the yellow or red section. If there is no pressure gauge, a certified professional should inspect the unit.
- Outer damage such as a broken handle, cracked nozzle, split hose or a missing locking pin.
- The fire extinguisher is more than 10 years old.
- The fire extinguisher has been used.
Most fire extinguishers are a one time use. Some models are rechargeable and can be serviced by a professional after each use. However, many people do not have access to the equipment necessary to refill and repressurize a fire extinguisher. In that case, the extinguisher must be properly disposed or recycled.
Many fire equipment dealers can recharge or dispose of fire extinguishers.
Where to Dispose of Fire Extinguishers
The Lake Cities Fire Department does not collect or dispose of fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers contain chemicals unsafe for typical waste management plants, and they should be disposed of at a Household Hazardous Waste Facility, Fire Equipment Dealers, or City Clean Up Days.
Some fire extinguisher may be disposed in trash cans or recycle bins such as Class ABC fire extinguishers. Preparation of the fire extinguisher is required before a fire extinguisher can be thrown away in garbage or recycle bins. This can be done by:
- Release all pressure and chemical in the shell slowly into a heavy duty trash bag or an area where acidic fertilizer would be used, such as evergreen.
- Dispose of the chemical slowly into a trash bag until all the air pressured and chemical has been released.
- Let the fire extinguisher sit for two or three days, then release again and listen for any sound indicating air is still trapped inside.
- Securely close the trash bag with the chemical inside and dispose in the trash bin.
- Dispose of empty fire extinguisher in the recycle or trash bin.
Select your municipality for waste disposal programs;
