Fire Extinguishers: Danger of Not Recharging

This video was made to answer the question: "Why must extinguishers be recharged immediately after use, even if only partially discharged?"
If we stop a fire with only a small amount of extinguishing agent, the gauge may still show correct operating pressure and the weight may indicate it is still full. The obvious Question is: "Why should we have the unit recharged as quickly as possible?" In fact, since it has extinguishing agent and pressure why does it need recharged at all?
An authoritative article which provides more information on the importance of recharging extinguishers soon after use can be found at: fireextinguishe...
For more extinguisher information visit www.tnsummitfir...
Bill’s Notes’ content has now been incorporated into Minute Reads and Summit Home page.

[@HimJimRimDim]

Yep, the dry chemical (chalk) types are a one shot deal. They must be thoroughly cleaned and recharged after every single discharge or partial discharge.

[@goldwingman1500]

I have had Many customers tell me my Fire Extinguisher is Fine i tested it last week i tell them i will do it for Free if you can make it Work Now ,No Go powder every where they Must me refilled after use .

[@fredbaker4127]

I wanted to ask how long do cartridges in a cartridge extinguisher usually last?
and it would seem if the extinguisher cartridge became bad I would just have to screw in a new cartridge? any thoughts are appreciated please thank you.

[@maxderuiter1]

luckily this problem only occurs with dry chemical fire extinguihers. Water and foam extinguishers do not have this problem but it is always good to refill a fire extinguisher after use

[@banksroadmodernimage7358]

Does this apply to Halon/BCF extinguishers?
Ive got two,both not used but one has gauge slightly in the red area now.

[@arboretumvalley2360]

class 66 so glad you commented on this one, who would have thought using one a little basically meant it was no use. We keep 3 car ones around the property. They have not been used, but I first had them when I had kids...so I am off to investigate and make sure they seem untouched.

[@goldwingman1500]

Its good to get into the Habit of refilling all Fire Extinguishers after use as you might need a full charge next time you need it ?

[@goldwingman1500]

In Oz they need a pressure test every 6 years no if,s or buts .
The Valve is a spindle

[@portagepete1]

Ok so some engineer needs to improve the valve but that may not happen unless there is more money in making them better! 7 min video please talk like your speaking to adults and make it 1 min.

[@ezraspence]

Very nice video Bill! I made that very mistake with our fire extinguisher... I should probably tell Dad! Lol oh and this was the first video I watched on the go on my iPhone :)