Quote:
Originally Posted by Bernica
As far as I know, extinguishers of all types need to be checked and recharged on a regular basis. At least in a commercial environment that is mandatory.
I do have one (of many) in the garage that has a tag that says last inspection was in 1996 and it still shows full charge. Always wonder about that one....  |
If you're talking about a dry chemical extinguisher, every year you should turn it upside down and tap the bottom with a rubber mallet until you can feel the powder break loose. In storage, the powder tends to cake up at the bottom so when you try to use it, the only thing that comes out is the nitrogen propellant.
Also, lightly tap the gauge with your finger to make sure the needle isn't stuck. If it still reads charged, you're good to go.