Has your business operated out of the same building for several years? Perhaps you recently moved to your current location after the previous tenant moved out. Either way, the old, dusty fire extinguisher on the wall has grabbed your attention and made you think—how old is my fire extinguisher? Here’s how to tell when the canister was manufactured and when and how to replace it.
No matter what type of fire extinguisher you have, the manufacturing date should be featured somewhere on the canister. It might be printed on the extinguisher label or stamped into the cylinder body. If you don’t readily see a date stamp, check under the plastic ring around the neck of the extinguisher or beneath the rubber boot at the base of the cylinder. If paint has obscured the numbers, remove it with emery cloth so you can read the date clearly.
Disposable fire extinguishers, which can’t be recharged, last for 12 years, after which time you should dispose of them. Rechargeable extinguishers can last much longer with proper servicing and maintenance:
Many things can go wrong with fire extinguishers that might require you to recharge or replace them. Ask Kauffman Co. to come take a look if you notice any of these problems during a routine monthly fire extinguisher inspection:
We’ll recommend servicing and recharging the extinguisher if doing so would be economical and equally as effective as replacing the unit. On the other hand, if the canister is damaged beyond repair, we’ll assist you with replacing your fire extinguisher.
If you determine it’s time to replace your old fire extinguisher, you must do so properly. After all, the canister contains pressurized chemicals, so you can’t simply throw it in the trash. Here’s what you need to do:
Is it time to inspect or test your fire extinguishers? Perhaps you just noticed something wrong with one of your canisters. Either way, call Kauffman Co.! We’ll make sure your fire protection equipment is working properly, and if any cylinders fail to pass an inspection or hydrostatic test, we’ll assist you with the fire extinguisher replacement process.
Contact Kauffman Co. today to schedule the fire extinguisher services you need for your Houston-area business.
Fall can be a great time of year in the Houston area. Most of the heat of summer is gone,…
A fire at a commercial property can create devastating losses for the business owners, as well as uncertainty for employees…