How Long Do Fire Extinguishers Last (And Why)?

How Long Do Fire Extinguishers Last (And Why)?

Exact Answer: 10-12 Years

A fire extinguisher is a device that is used to put out fires. They come in many different shapes and sizes, but they all work in more or less the same way. The most common type of fire extinguisher is the pressurized canister.

When one sees a fire, they need to take the extinguisher and aim it at the base of the flames. Then, hold the extinguisher with one hand and use the other hand to pull the pin. Once the pin is pulled, the pressure inside the canister will force out the foam or water.

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How Long Do Fire Extinguishers Last?

Type Duration
Fire extinguisher lasts for10-12 years
Needs refill or replacement in10 years

The lifespan of a fire extinguisher varies depending on the type of extinguisher, but in general, most fire extinguishers have a lifespan of about 10-12 years. After this time, the extinguisher may not work properly and should be replaced.

It’s important to keep in mind that even if an extinguisher is still technically functional after 10 years, it may not be as effective as it once was. Hence, it’s always best to replace an extinguisher before it expires, rather than risk not being able to put out a fire properly in case of an emergency.

Benefits of fire extinguishers:

  1. Fire extinguisher systems can help to reduce the severity and frequency of fires. 
  2. They are also useful in preventing property damage, injury, and loss of life. 
  3. A properly working fire extinguisher system can help to save money by reducing the need for replacement or repair due to fire-damaged equipment.
  4. Preventing injury from escaping gases, heat, and flames. 
  5. Avoid the total loss of property through smoke damage to interior walls and ceilings if no sprinkler system is installed in the building.

Overall, fire extinguishers are an important part of any workplace safety plan, as they can help put out small fires before they become big ones. Fire extinguishers come in various types, and it’s important to familiarize oneself with their use before a fire breaks out. According to the manual, a rechargeable fire extinguisher must be recharged every ten years and must be tested weekly.

Why Would Fire Extinguishers Last So Long?

Fire extinguishers are designed to work for a certain amount of time before replacing them. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets this limit at 10 years. Still, it can vary depending on the type and make of fire extinguishers and other factors such as climate control in the building where it’s housed.

Some types have an “antifreeze” agent that prevents corrosion from occurring inside the nozzle, extending its service life up to 20 years or more under normal conditions. Others are sealed units without antifreeze agents; however, these too will last longer if not exposed to any water source during their lifetime because exposure would cause them to rust.

First, the quality of the extinguisher is crucial to its effectiveness and longevity. Second, proper maintenance can extend the lifetime of an extinguisher dramatically.

Proper care includes regular inspections to ensure that no hazardous materials have accumulated inside or around it – this would include checking for corrosion on electrical connections and ensuring there’s no water pooling in any area where one might touch after spraying out chemicals from an extinguisher. 

Regularly changing the nozzle seal should also be done as routine maintenance for all fire protection equipment.

Some things one should keep in mind when using a fire extinguisher:

  1. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
  2. Squeeze the trigger and hold it down while one moves the extinguisher back and forth across the fire base.
  3. Make sure to have a clear path to escape if the fire gets out of control.

Conclusion

Most of the fire extinguishers do not come with an expiration date. The recommended shelf life for a new, unused fire extinguisher is 10-15 years from the manufacture date before replacement becomes necessary.

The average home contains more than 30 hazardous substances that can pose risks when released or mixed with other materials. They need to be kept away from sources of ignition and stored properly so they don’t get contaminated by dirt, oil, gas, or water over time which will reduce their effectiveness.

References

  1. https://www.proquest.com/openview/4fc5e8884089d7cc05349225442ce7a0/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=936334 
  2. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10055-020-00447-5 
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