How Long Do Fire Extinguishers Last?
Your fire extinguisher has a lifespan of 5 to 15 years, depending on the type. As a rule of thumb, it should be inspected by a specialist every year.
Written by Natalie Todoroff
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Fire extinguishers have a lifespan of 5 to 15 years. When the pressure gauge drops below the green level, your fire extinguisher has lost potency and is now ineffective—which is the last thing you want in an emergency.
There are two main kinds of fire extinguishers: disposable and rechargeable. A disposable fire extinguisher should be disposed of 10 years from the date on the label. A rechargeable fire extinguisher should be taken to a professional at least once every six years for recharging.
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Do fire extinguishers expire?
Yes, all fire extinguishers will eventually expire. Fire extinguishers are pressurized and filled with dry chemicals—this pressure is what allows them to fight flames. Over time, they will lose their charge and the internal pressure will drop.
When you need to replace your fire extinguisher depends on the type. There are two main kinds:
Disposable
A disposable fire extinguisher has a plastic head with a gauge that reads “full” or “empty.” This kind of fire extinguisher can last up to 15 years if well maintained.
As a rule of thumb, your disposable extinguisher should be replaced every 10 years if it’s not being regularly serviced by a professional.
Rechargeable
Unlike a disposable fire extinguisher, a rechargeable one will have a metal gauge that reads “charge” or “recharge.”
A rechargeable extinguisher should be brought to a professional for inspection and a recharge every six years, at least.
MORE: The 16 perils of home insurance
How can I tell if my fire extinguisher needs replacing?
Check the pressure gauge
The pressure gauge can be found at the very top of your fire extinguisher. It’s pretty simple to read: if the needle is in the green, you’re good to go. Likewise, if it reads “charge,” it’s ready to be used.
If the needle on the pressure gauge is in the red or white, or if the gauge reads “recharge,” then something is wrong with your fire extinguisher. In that case, bring it to a professional.
Pro Tip Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to check the pressure gauge once a month. That way, you won’t be caught off guard in case of an emergency!
Check the tag
No matter the type, your fire extinguisher most likely has a tag attached to its top. The tag will have a date on it, either the last time it was serviced or the manufacturing date.
If it’s been more than ten years since the date on the tag, your best bet is just to get a new fire extinguisher.
Pro Tip Your fire extinguisher is full of dangerous chemicals, so never discard it with your normal garbage. It must be properly disposed of at your local hazardous waste collection site or with your local fire department.
Check for external damage
It doesn’t really matter if your fire extinguisher is the brightest, most brilliant shade of red. But, external features like dents, bruises, damage to the seal, a wobbly handle, or a cracked nozzle can all render your fire extinguisher unusable.
It’s technically what’s inside that counts here, but you’ve still got to consider the exterior.
Tips to make your fire extinguisher last longer
Luckily for you, there are some things you can do to help keep your fire extinguisher in flame-fighting shape. You should:
- Keep it out of the sun. Extended exposure to UV light can be harmful to the internal chemicals.
- Keep it out of the rain. Rain and moisture can cause your fire extinguisher to rust, which can cause internal and external damage.
- Have it serviced every year. A fire safety specialist should inspect your fire extinguisher every year to be sure it’s in optimal condition.
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How long can I use my fire extinguisher?
You can use a disposable fire extinguisher for 10 years from the last date it was serviced. You can use a rechargeable one for 6 years after its last recharge.
What do the symbols on a fire extinguisher mean?
The symbols represent different “classes” of fire that your extinguisher is equipped to fight. Depending on the fuel source, every fire needs to be extinguished differently.
A in a green triangle is for ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, cardboard, and most plastics.
B in a red square is for flammable liquids like gasoline or grease.
C in a blue square is for an electrical equipment fire.
D in a yellow star is for chemical lab fires from metals like titanium and magnesium.
K in a black hexagon is for cooking fires from oils or fats.
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