Quick answer
Any use — even a one-second squeeze — means the extinguisher comes out of service until it is recharged or replaced. There is no safe “partial use.” Disposable units get replaced, not recharged.
Why
Pulling the pin and squeezing the handle opens the valve. Seals can weep. Pressure can look green on the gauge and still be on the way down. In a dry chemical unit, the powder may not flow the same next time. You also cannot tell how much agent is left by looking at the gauge.
What counts as used
- Any squeeze of the handle
- A test shot
- Accidental discharge
- Training discharge
- Broken or missing tamper seal — treat it as used until someone checks it
What to do
- Take it off the wall. Do not hang it back up.
- Mark it used.
- Hang a spare of the same class if the spot has to stay covered.
- Note the date and why it was used.
- Call for recharge or a replacement.
- On a boat? Same rule. Recharge after a discharge on your boat.
Rechargeable vs disposable
Metal valve and a gauge — usually rechargeable. Small plastic-valve units from a big-box store — usually disposable. If you are not sure, we will tell you when we see it.
We recharge and replace on site when we can. After a recharge, check for the collar ring. We keep up with the date. Call 1-800-348-9604.