If you are a business owner or own commercial buildings, a fire extinguisher is an essential fire protection system and solution to have.
This is an effective and efficient way to de-escalate or put out small fires. The risk of damages and injuries. This is risky for you, your building and our tenants. Here you will find the answer to, is it cheaper to recharge or replace a fire extinguisher?
If you still are not convinced, or just prefer so speak to the experts, give us a call at Industrial Fire and we would be happy to help!
Recharging a Fire Extinguisher
Sometimes an extinguisher cannot be repaired. Then you need to replace it, to the extent that it has a condition and two other things.
First of all, you will have just used it and it needs to be recharged. But you can also recharge it if it’s in good shape and hasn’t been damaged.
Well, you will be pleased to learn that our business is licensed to recharge your fire extinguisher in Albuquerque, NM and throughout New Mexico.
Signs You Need to Recharge it
In cases where the other parts remain in excellent condition but your fire extinguisher was still used within recently history, a recharge is the best step to take.
Even if a little has been unscrewed, it’ll need to be recharged the arrow is back in “The green.” The only government exception are the smaller 2.5 lb.
ABC fire extinguishers. Also Brazas Fire will not service recharge the small 2.5 lb ABCs – it doesn’t pay for anyone. 2.5 lb. ABC extinguishers should be replaced at 6 years, or if the extinguisher has been used.
Replacing a Fire Extinguisher
One rule of thumb is to dispatch your fire extinguisher after 12 years, though nothing may be wrong with it.
Here at Brazas Fire the general standard to be overly conservative. Keep fire extinguishers in good service for as long as possible (should be except for 2.5 lb ABC fire extinguishers which we recommend replacing them at the end of 6-year period or after use).
A good industrial-quality fire extinguisher from either Amerex or ANSUL can last for years. Note the dates it has been recharged, or replaced. If there are indications of any structural damage to the cylinder, then fire extinguishers can’t be recharged.
Signs You Need to Replace it
It you see any signs of damage or it doesn’t keep the pressure up, it needs to be replaced entirely. For instance, is there a pin on the handle that is damaged or missing, or is the handle wobbly? Are there any signs of visible rust or corrosion, or do you see a cracked hose or nozzle? Does it leak down slowly, or does it lack an inspection tag? Many of these we can correct and return the extinguisher to service. If not, your fire extinguisher needs to be replaced by end user.
Can I Recharge a Used Fire Extinguisher or Do I Need to Replace It?
Replacing a small canister may be cheaper than recharging it, particularly if done by a professional, like 2.5 lb. ABC fire extinguishers.
But recharging may be the way to go if there is no damage and especially if you have a bigger fire extinguisher.
If ones if certain signs and symptoms of needing replaced are evident, it best to replace it, but not doing so, it might not work correctly if you have a fire. You’ll be left with thousands of dollars in damages to pay for. However, if you are in doubt as to what your requirements are, or what’s more cost effective for you, just gives us a call and we can advise.
Call Brazas Fire Today For Fire Protection Services
If you’re not sure whether to replace or recharge your fire extinguisher, then contact us now to schedule a fire extinguisher inspection!
Our staff is prepared and waiting to help you have your fire extinguisher prepared to go. We offer several fire extinguisher models you may want to consider.