Can I recycle my old fire extinguisher?
It’s smart to have a fire extinguisher in your home in case you need to quickly put out a small fire. But where do you put the extinguisher when it’s time to get rid of it?
As with other pressurized containers, it’s not safe to dispose of full or partially full fire extinguishers in the recycling bin or even in the trash. In the quick guide below, we’ll extinguish any uncertainties about getting rid of your fire extinguisher — and guide you toward safe disposal options.
When to get rid of your fire extinguisher
Ideally, a fire extinguisher is an item you own and never actually need to use. But even an unused fire extinguisher won’t last forever. First Alert, a major manufacturer of these fire safety devices, says its fire extinguishers typically have a 10-12 year life expectancy. They recommend replacing disposable fire extinguishers once a decade.
Some fire extinguishers are rechargeable. This type of fire extinguisher should be inspected and potentially recharged every six years by a reputable fire equipment service company.
You may also need to replace or service your extinguisher if:
- You use it
- The hose or nozzle is damaged
- The metal locking pin on the handle is missing
- The safety seal is missing
- The handle is wobbly or broken
- The pressure gauge is not in the green section, meaning it is not properly pressurized
Why fire extinguishers don’t belong in trash or recycling bins
Fire extinguishers are pressurized cylinders that contain different extinguishing agents, such as water, carbon dioxide, or dry or wet chemicals, depending on the type of fire the extinguisher is intended for. In their homes, people often have what’s called an ABC extinguisher, designed to put out fires affecting materials like cloth, wood, paper, grease and electrical appliances. This type of extinguisher uses monoammonium phosphate, a dry chemical agent that smothers and cools the fire.
Because contents are under pressure, extinguishers can leak or explode if not handled properly. If placed in a trash or recycling bin, pressurized fire extinguishers can pose a danger to both workers and their equipment. And since fire extinguishers contain chemicals, mishandling can lead to leaks.
When it comes to fire extinguishers, follow the same guidance for full or partially full aerosol cans and propane tanks: keep them out of your trash and recycling bins.
Disposal options
Let’s say it’s time to get rid of your fire extinguisher. Now what? Depending on where you live, you likely have several options for safe disposal.
Fire protection companies
Fire safety companies will sometimes accept used fire extinguishers. They may be able to recharge them if they are still in good condition, or disassemble them and reuse certain parts. Find local companies through an Internet search and call first to see if they will accept your old extinguisher. Some may charge a small fee.
Scrap metal recyclers
Scrap metal recyclers are another potential disposal option. They may be interested in recycling your fire extinguisher’s metal container. But make sure to call ahead to see if your scrap metal recycler accepts your device or has any drop-off requirements. Some require that the extinguisher be empty or the valve removed.
Hazardous waste disposal
In some places, household hazardous waste centers accept full or partially full fire extinguishers. In Flagstaff, Arizona, for example, the municipal hazardous products center accepts used (and still charged) fire extinguishers so they can use them for training — a great reuse idea!
Fire departments
Some community fire departments will accept old fire extinguishers. Call ahead to see if yours is one of them.
Last resort
You should never put a full or partially fully fire extinguisher in the trash or recycling, no matter where you live. But some communities allow residents to place empty cylinders in the trash. Local requirements vary.
For example, in Pinellas County, Florida, residents are encouraged to take old extinguishers to fire safety companies or scrap metal recyclers. But as a last resort, they can dispose of empty tanks in the trash — after the valve is removed and the cylinder is safely cut in half.
How to empty your fire extinguisher
First Alert recommends emptying the contents of your fire extinguisher into a heavy-duty trash bag. This should be done outside to avoid chemicals being discharged inside.
Not sure what can be recycled in your community? Check out Recycle by City’s Recycling Guides for more information.
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