Fire Extinguisher Inspections

Fire extinguishers are indispensable safety tools that can protect your home and health during an emergency. But, in the rush of everyday life, it’s easy to forget that these tools need regular maintenance. Fire extinguisher inspections are a quick and simple process that ensures each device is ready when you need it most. 

At Vanport Mechanical and Fire Sprinkler, we help you protect your home with reliable fire safety – including extinguisher checkups. Our inspections help identify any potential issues, such as damage, leaks, or corrosion, that might compromise the extinguisher’s functionality.

Importance of Fire Extinguisher Inspections

From unattended stove tops to electrical malfunctions, you never know when a fire could break out in your home. During an emergency, your extinguishers must be always ready. The last thing you want is to reach for your extinguisher to discover that it won’t work properly, leaving you in a dangerous situation that could destroy your home or harm your loved ones. Investing in routine inspections ensures that you’re always prepared, no matter what. 

Should I Get a Professional Fire Extinguisher Inspection?

Many people assume that a quick visual inspection is good enough when it comes to fire extinguishers. As long as it’s still in the correct spot and looks intact, it should be fine, right? Unfortunately, many problems are difficult to detect on your own, and they can develop over time even if your extinguisher hasn’t been used. During a professional fire extinguisher inspection, we’ll use special tools to examine:

• Safety seals and pins
• Tamper indicators
• Pressurization
• Type and amount of extinguishing agent
• Accessibility and location
• Potential damage or corrosion
• Possible obstructions or clogs
• Documentation and tagging

Partnering with a certified technician is the best way to ensure that your extinguisher is in great shape and always ready and reliable during an emergency.

How Often Should I Inspect My Fire Extinguishers?

The frequency of fire extinguisher inspections depends on the type of extinguisher, the environment where it’s located, and some other factors. Here’s a general guideline:

• Monthly Visual Inspection: A quick check of the extinguisher’s location, accessibility, and ensure there are no obvious signs of damage or tampering. This can be done on your own. 
• Annual Inspection: A more thorough inspection performed by a certified professional. This includes a detailed examination of the extinguisher’s condition, checking the pressure, confirming the seals, and ensuring it meets safety standards. A tag or sticker indicating the inspection date and next due date is typically attached after this annual inspection.
• Maintenance Service: Every few years (usually every 5, 6, or 12 years, depending on the type of extinguisher), fire extinguishers need maintenance or “hydrostatic testing” to ensure the integrity of the pressure vessel. This involves depressurizing the extinguisher, inspecting its components, and testing the cylinder to confirm its strength and safety.
• Recharging or Replacement: If an extinguisher is used, even partially, it must be recharged by a professional and inspected more thoroughly to ensure it’s ready for future use. If an extinguisher shows signs of damage, corrosion, or has reached its expiration date, it should be replaced promptly.

Fire Extinguisher Inspector in Vancouver, WA

If you want peace of mind that your fire extinguishers are always ready, turn to the experts at Vanport Mechanical! With our comprehensive annual inspections and additional maintenance services, our certified technicians prioritize your safety by meticulously inspecting and maintaining your fire extinguishers. 

Our team adheres strictly to local regulations and industry standards, guaranteeing the reliability and compliance of your fire safety equipment. Don’t compromise on safety—trust Vanport for thorough, professional fire extinguisher inspections that keep your home protected from any emergency.