How Often Should You Change Out a Fire Extinguisher?

Fire extinguishers come in different sizes.

Look at the Needle

Mount extinguishers for quick access.

Fire extinguishers are equipped with a needle which tells you whether or not the mechanism is working. "If the needle is in the green area, it's functional," experts at RealSimple.com state. On the other hand, even if a fire extinguisher has no expiration date, the site explains "it won't last forever."

It May Not Have a Needle

Extinguishers are often affordable.

Older fire extinguisher models may not possess a needle. If this is the case it is wise to have the extinguisher professionally inspected. The Real Simple site recommends "annual servicing for all models" and if the extinguisher does have a needle, but shows any signs of failure, consider it "unreliable " and have it immediately "serviced or replaced."

Bottom Line

Extinguishers should be placed in every home to help prevent disaster.

Change out a fire extinguisher every "5 to 15 years," according to Real Simple. It is wise to keep an eye on extinguisher gauges--often in the form of a needle--to determine whether the mechanism is safe to use. If an extinguisher is old or without any indicators, it may be time to invest in a new one.

References

• Real Simple: When to Replace a Fire Extinguisher