Fire Extinguisher Inspection in Tampa, FL

Rechargeable extinguishers can stay in service for many years as long as they pass annual maintenance, internal maintenance and their periodic hydrostatic test. Replacement is needed when a cylinder fails a hydrostatic test, shows damage such as dents, corrosion or a damaged valve, or is an obsolete type. Disposable, non-rechargeable extinguishers — common in homes and small offices — have to be removed from service 12 years after their manufacture date under NFPA 10, and once discharged they can't be refilled. A licensed technician can check the manufacture date and tell you whether servicing or replacing is the better value.

Generally, yes, if the kitchen cooks with oils and fats. NFPA 10, which Florida's fire code adopts, calls for Class K extinguishers in areas where combustible cooking media such as vegetable or animal oils are used, and commercial fryers are the classic example. A Class K extinguisher uses a wet chemical agent designed for grease fires and is meant to back up the kitchen hood's fixed suppression system, not replace it. Placement and travel distance rules apply, so ask your inspection company to confirm the right number and location for your kitchen, and train staff to use the suppression system first.