How Long Fire Extinguishers Last and When to Replace Them

Out of Date Fire Extinguisher Could Put Lives at Risk

Fire extinguishers are a common sight in homes and workplaces, offering a first line of defence against small, controllable fires. But experts are warning that if they are not properly maintained, they may fail when they are needed most.

The team at High Speed Training has shared guidance on how long fire extinguishers last and what people should look out for to make sure they remain safe and effective.

How Long Do Fire Extinguishers Last?

Dr Richard Anderson, Director of Learning at High Speed Training, explained that the lifespan of a fire extinguisher can vary.

He said: “Most standard, portable fire extinguishers last between 5 and 15 years, depending on the type of fire extinguisher, environment it’s kept in and maintenance schedule.”

However, he warned that age is not the only factor.

“An expired or poorly maintained extinguisher can be dangerous. It may fail to discharge, leak or even rupture under pressure. Over time, components can degrade, pressure can be lost and the extinguishing agent may become less effective.

“Relying on a faulty fire extinguisher during an emergency can put lives at risk and may leave your organisation non-compliant with fire safety regulations, such as the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.”

Maintenance Rules You Should Know

In the UK, fire extinguisher maintenance is guided by BS 5306 standards.

These recommend:

• Annual servicing by a competent person
• Extended servicing every 5 years for certain types
• Hydraulic pressure testing every 10 years for refillable extinguishers

To check the age of an extinguisher, the manufacturing date is usually stamped on the body or printed on the label. If it is difficult to see, better lighting or gently cleaning the area may help make it visible.

Signs Your Extinguisher Needs Replacing

Regular checks can help identify when a fire extinguisher is no longer safe to use. Warning signs include:

• Visible damage such as dents, cracks or corrosion
• Leakage or residue around the nozzle or valve
• Faded or missing labels
• A missing or broken safety pin or tamper seal
• The pressure gauge needle sitting in the red zone
• Damaged or blocked hoses
• Evidence of unauthorised use or partial discharge

Safe Disposal Is Essential

Dr Richard Anderson also highlighted the importance of disposing of old extinguishers correctly.

He said: “If a fire extinguisher has expired or is no longer in safe working condition, it must be disposed of correctly. Fire extinguishers are pressurised vessels and may contain chemicals that require controlled handling. Proper disposal of fire extinguishers helps to protect the environment, ensures legal compliance and prevents unsafe equipment from being reused.”

“Do not place fire extinguishers in general waste or recycling bins. It is best to contact a licensed waste disposal contractor or your extinguisher service provider, or check whether the manufacturer offers a take-back or recycling scheme. Ensure the unit is fully depressurised by a qualified professional before disposal, and keep disposal records where required for workplace compliance.”

For more information, visit High Speed Training and explore their catalogue of health and safety courses.