fire extinguishers

[Lauri]

I realized ours are at least 8 yo and need "recharging"

In your experience; is is better/cheaper (and just as reliable/safe) to recharge, or buy new ones?

Thank You

[Curtis B]

It doesn't cost much at all if you can find a company that will recharge. Some of the dry chem ones just get a smack on the bottom with a rubber mallet.

[watcher]

I'd think the legal liabilities issues would keep a company from recharging any fire ex which isn't theirs. Personally I'd get new ones, fire ex aren't that expensive.

[Curtis B]

There are companies that do it. All my fire extinguishers at the comercial buildings I operate have to be tagged annually by a company that checks them and "recharges" them. The fire department gets all of theirs recharged by the company also. Even if it has been used most can be recharged.

[GREENCOUNTYPETE]

Ask your fire department who they use

i think we have american fire protection corporation or something like that with our extinguishers at work

[ditchmedic]

if they have a metal head they are much cheaper to service/recharge. if they are "kiddie" brand/plastic head throw them away and buy new. I am a firefighter and sell/service fire extinguishers daily. every 6 years they need rebuilt and recharged anyways. if it is older than 1980 then noone will service it.

[Gary in ohio]

There are some that can be recharged and many of the hardware store types that can.
Most likely if its under a 5lb unit you can recharge it. Call the local fire dept and see if they have any plans. Our local FD can get your fire extinguishers recharged at there discounted rate.