Inspection & Testing Schedule
How often portable fire extinguishers need attention, based on NFPA 10 (2022 edition).
What's needed and when
| Task | How often | Who |
|---|---|---|
| Visual inspection: in place, gauge in the green, seal intact, no damage, nothing blocking it | Every month | Building owner or staff |
| Annual maintenance & certification: full inspection, new tag and seal | Every year | Licensed technician |
| 6-year maintenance: internal inspection and refill | Every 6 years | Licensed technician |
| Hydrostatic test: cylinder pressure test | Every 5 or 12 years (see below) | Licensed technician |
| Recharge | After any use, or when the gauge or inspection shows it's needed | Licensed technician |
By extinguisher type
| Type | 6-year maintenance | Hydrostatic test |
|---|---|---|
| Stored-pressure dry chemical (ABC, BC, Purple K) | Every 6 years | Every 12 years |
| Halotron / clean agent | Every 6 years | Every 12 years |
| Carbon dioxide (CO2) | Not required | Every 5 years |
| Water and water mist | Not required | Every 5 years |
| Wet chemical (Class K) | Not required | Every 5 years |
Dates count from the last 6-year maintenance or hydro test (or the manufacture date for a unit that's never been serviced). We track these for you and list the next due dates on your extinguisher location list after every visit. Your local fire code or insurer may have additional requirements.