25 Jun Replacing fire extinguishers
Replacing fire extinguishers when is the right time?
Replacing fire extinguishers, it’s not always easy to know when it is the best time to change them. When well-maintained they can last for twenty years plus, not all extinguishers have an expiry date on them. Regular maintenance, however, is crucial to keep them in good working order.
Why is it important to have regular maintenance?
Regular maintenance can make a big difference to a fire extinguisher lasting twenty years plus or just a few years. Regular inspections and tests can help save your extinguisher from damage, rust and corrosion, therefore prolonging its life.
Another important part is hydrostatic testing, this is one of the most important tests. The cylinder is emptied and then re-filled with coloured water after which it is brought up to a high pressure. If the parts, shell, hose and nozzle can all stand the pressure for a short period, the fire extinguisher will pass its test. This type of test should be carried out at least once every five years.
Maintenance for fire extinguishers
When it comes to maintaining your fire extinguishers, it is essential to ensure they last a long-time and work correctly in the event of an emergency. Monthly inspections should be carried out to ensure they are holding a charge. In addition, you should be having professional inspections carried out each year, along with the process of emptying and recharging any rechargeable extinguishers every 10 years.
Signs your fire extinguishers may need changing
So you are unsure how old your fire extinguishers are? It is important they are checked regularly for warning signs, below are a few to watch out for:
- If it can no longer be serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s maintenance manual.
- The extinguisher was made by a company which no longer exists
- The hose or nozzle is blocked with debris or cracked
- The locking pin on the handle is either unsealed or missing
- A broken or unsteady handle
- There is no inspection sticker on the extinguisher with a record of checkups and maintenance.
Our services for fire protection in the North East
No matter if you require fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, fire alarms, emergency lighting, fire safety signs, dry risers or even nurse call systems. We have been protecting businesses throughout the North East for many years.
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