Fire extinguishers do expire and become inoperable over time. However, there isn’t a predetermined number of years companies can have a device before it’s considered “expired.” Specific models become obsolete as technology advances and regulations change. Most manufacturers claim a well-maintained fire extinguisher can last up to twenty years with an average lifespan of 10-12 years.
Readily accessible and fully functional portable fire extinguishers protect occupants, prevent property damage, and ensure regulatory compliance. With over 200+ years of industry experience, Impact Fire provides fire extinguisher installation, inspection, maintenance, recharging, and training services to commercial and industrial businesses nationwide.
Our licesnsed technicians help businesses identify and install the correct type of fire extinguishers for their facility per NFPA codes and local AHJ requirements. We inspect each device thoroughly and teach employees how to use hand-operated fire extinguishers effectively. We also carry monitored fire extinguishers that electronically check for pressure, obstructions, and extinguisher removal. You are notified as soon as the extinguisher is removed from its mount, whether intentional or accidental.
Portable units require annual maintenance and monthly inspection. Many of our customers have us train their employees to perform the quick monthly check, and we provide the yearly maintenance, recharges, and testing as necessary. Some of our customers want us to manage the entire program, and we have the personnel and the cost-effective plan to meet your needs.
Fire Extinguisher Services
Fire Extinguisher Installation
We conduct non-invasive site assessments to match fire extinguisher type, size, and placement to your facility’s needs, ensuring you have suitable equipment installed to protect your facility. Licensed technicians install fire extinguishers following local fire codes, ensuring compliance with minimal disruption to your business. We install fire extinguishers with precision and professionalism for the following industries:
Fire Extinguisher Inspection & Testing
We provide thorough and precise fire extinguisher inspections to help commercial and industrial facilities safeguard their property, employees, and assets. Licensed technicians will test your fire extinguisher to guarantee that all components comply with NFPA, local, and state requirements. On the confirmed inspection date, experienced technicians arrive promptly to conduct the following portable fire extinguisher inspection tasks:
- Visual inspections
- Hydrostatic testing
- Comprehensive reporting
- NFPA 10 compliant inspection services
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance
If an inspection uncovers fire extinguisher problems, trained technicians will perform vital preventive maintenance to fix critical issues and sustain peak performance. Proper fire extinguisher maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your safety equipment and ensure regulatory compliance. Our trained technicians maintain all types of fire extinguishers, including:
- Water
- Water mist
- ABC powder
- Carbon dioxide (CO2)
- Wet chemical
- Foam
- Clean agent or halogen
- Dry powder
Fire Extinguisher Recharge
An expired, undercharged or depressurized fire extinguisher endangers your personnel and property. Licensed technicians will conduct internal examination and fire extinguisher recharging six and twelve years from the date of manufacture to ensure your devices are functional and compliant. Our trained technicians will recharge your equipment:
- Immediately after each use
- Periodically throughout their life
- When leaks and depressurization occur
Fire Extinguisher Training
OSHA prohibits employees from using extinguishers unless they’ve had appropriate training. Impact Fire offers fire extinguisher classes to familiarize employees with the general principles of fire extinguisher use. Educational fire extinguisher training helps personnel gain valuable hands-on technical training to ensure proper equipment use and workplace safety. Here are a few of our class options:
- Fuel Fire & Dry Chemical Fire School
- R.A.C.E. Training for the Healthcare Industry
- Advanced Fire Training for the Fire Professional
- Bullex and Classroom Fire Extinguisher Training
- Kitchen Live Fire Extinguisher/Suppression System Training
Benefits Of Partnering With Fire Extinguisher Experts
Simplified pricing
Detailed reporting
Inventory management
Annual preventative maintenance
Service for all types of fire extinguishers
Fire and building code consulting services
24/7 support from a fully licensed, bonded, and insured company
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Schedule
Every Year
- Maintenance on portable fire extinguishers.
Every 5 Years
- Hydrostatic test on carbon dioxide and water-based extinguishers.
Every 6 Years
- Maintenance on stored-pressure extinguishers.
Every 12 Years
- Hydrostatic test on stored pressure and cartridge-operated extinguishers.
Fire Extinguisher Inspection Process
During An Inspection, Our Fire Extinguisher Technicians Will:
- Check that the extinguisher is visible and unobstructed
- Determine if the extinguisher is properly hung with the hanger provided by the manufacturer
- Check fire extinguisher locations to ensure accordance with your building requirements
- Survey the hazard area to verify that the extinguisher classification corresponds with the hazard
- Inspect gauge pressure, condition, and compatibility with the extinguisher
- Check the valve and shell for damage or corrosion
- Remove the extinguisher seal and locking pin and check the upper and lower handles
- Remove the hose and check the threads, inspect the hose for cracks or splits, and inspect the condition of the discharge horn
- Deliver a complete report of the inspection explaining any deficiencies and recommending corrective action following regulatory codes
Fire Extinguisher FAQ
Having the right portable fire extinguisher for your needs is critical to protecting lives and will help you be prepared if a fire breaks out. When choosing the suitable fire extinguisher for your needs, keep in mind the following three considerations:
- What type of hazards are you dealing with?
- What is the UL rating?
- What size do you need?
Suppose you’re unsure about what type of fire extinguisher you must have available in your workplace. In that case, it’s best to consult a fire protection company specializing in portable fire extinguisher equipment to ensure you’re well prepared.
Simply put, a Class K fire extinguisher is used to extinguish Class K fires. Class K fire extinguishers use specific extinguishing agents that separate and absorb the fuel, heat, and oxygen necessary to start a fire.
A Class K fire is fueled by flammable cooking liquids, such as cooking oil and animal or vegetable-based greases. Class K fires will likely start in commercial kitchens, including restaurants, office cafeterias, food trucks, bakeries, and other food businesses.
Fire extinguisher training allows personnel to gain valuable hands-on experience suppressing a controlled fire–giving your employees added confidence in an emergency. Fire extinguisher classes help prevent unnecessary loss of lives and property and will teach your employees:
- How to decide whether to fight or flight
- How to choose the right equipment
- Proper technique while using the equipment