Fires can start in seconds (from something as small as a cigarette ember or an unexpected electrical fault), and the consequences can be devastating if left unmitigated. Having a properly maintained fire extinguisher on hand is one of the most effective ways to control small fires before they escalate.
It’s critical to use the correct type of fire safety equipment for the situation (whether it’s a Class A fire involving common combustibles, a Class B fire fueled by flammable liquids, or a Class E fire caused by electrical equipment). That’s why fire extinguisher installation and routine maintenance are legal requirements for all applicable properties in Australia, and a vital component of regulatory compliance across virtually all Australian industries. When it comes to fire safety, early intervention with the right equipment can mean the difference between a close call and a catastrophe.
At Alexon, our fire safety specialists often get asked, “How long do fire extinguishers actually last?” The answer depends on a few key factors, including the type of extinguisher, how it’s stored, and whether it’s been properly maintained over time.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you need to know about extinguisher expiry, servicing requirements, and how to make sure your workplace or home stays compliant and protected.
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Under AS/NZS 1841, the Australian Standard for portable fire extinguishers, fire extinguishers must meet strict requirements regarding their size, construction, labelling, and performance. The appropriate size and type of extinguisher will depend on the fire risks present in the environment, ranging from smaller 1 kg units suitable for domestic use to larger extinguishers designed for commercial and industrial settings.
Fire extinguishers also vary in terms of their extinguishing agent, discharge pressure, and the material of the cylinder itself. Choosing the right extinguisher means considering both the type of fire you’re likely to face and the compliance requirements for your premises.
Water extinguishers handle Class A fires that originate from common materials like wood, paper, textiles, and some plastics. The extinguishing process works through lowering the temperature of the material on fire until the fire is completely extinguished.
Not suitable for fires involving electrical equipment or flammable liquids, and should never be used in those situations.
Foam fire extinguishers work on fires that involve solid materials (such as wood and paper) while also being effective against flammable liquids (including petrol and oils). The extinguishers produce a dense foam barrier to suffocate flames while simultaneously reducing surface heat.
Not suitable for use on electrical fires and should be avoided in those situations.
Effective on a wide range of fires, including those involving ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment. These devices interrupt the chemical processes that feed the fire and rapidly suppress the flames.
Commonly used in commercial and industrial environments where different fire risks may be present.
Ideal for fires involving flammable liquids and live electrical equipment. They put out fires by quickly removing oxygen and decreasing the temperature.
Their lack of residue makes them ideal for deployment in areas with sensitive electronics and machinery where avoiding damage during clean-up is vital.
Commercial kitchens face frequent hazards from cooking oil and fat fires which specially designed fire extinguishers aim to combat. The extinguishers function by both cooling the fire quickly and creating a thick soapy barrier which prevents the fire from flaring up again.
Essential for any kitchen environment.
These extinguishers specifically target infrequent yet severe fires involving combustible metals such as magnesium, sodium, and aluminium. These extinguishers use special agents that suppress burning metals by both smothering them and reducing their extreme heat which water and conventional extinguishers cannot achieve.
Outside of industrial or manufacturing environments, these extinguishers are not often needed but become essential wherever metal fires could occur.
Over time, fire extinguishers can lose pressure and become less effective. Misuse and general wear and tear can impact the efficacy of your fire extinguisher unit when used in an emergency. While there’s no fixed expiry date for fire extinguishers in Australia, strict maintenance standards are in place to make sure they stay in working order.
Under AS/NZS 1851:2012, which sets the guidelines for servicing fire protection equipment, all portable and wheeled extinguishers must be tested, inspected, and tagged at least every six months. This includes visual checks, pressure testing, and refilling if needed. Regular servicing is the only way to guarantee your extinguisher will work when you need it most - and to stay compliant with Australian fire safety regulations. And a 5-yearly pressure test is also required.
The extinguishing agents inside fire extinguishers (depending on if it’s water for Class A fires, dry chemical powder for Class B and E fires, or foam for flammable liquids) don’t usually expire. But that doesn’t mean the unit will always function as expected.
We believe understanding fire safety compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes - it’s about knowing when your equipment needs to be inspected, recharged, or replaced to ensure it meets Australian standards and performs in a real emergency.
One of the most common issues is a gradual loss of pressure, which can happen over time even if the extinguisher hasn’t been used. And without the right internal pressure, the extinguisher won’t discharge properly in an emergency, making it essentially useless when you need it most.
That’s why regular equipment maintenance and servicing are essential safety measures that help ensure your extinguisher will perform reliably, no matter what type of fire you’re facing.
If you have a disposable fire extinguisher at home, it’s important to identify the type you’re dealing with. Portable aerosol fire extinguishers (often mistaken for spray cans) are designed for one-time use and come with a clear expiry or “use by” date printed on the canister. In Australia, this lifespan typically ranges around five years from the manufacture date, though it can vary depending on the brand and model.
Unlike refillable extinguishers, disposable aerosols cannot be serviced or recharged, so replacing them on time is crucial for reliable fire protection. For detailed guidance on maintaining fire suppression systems and staying compliant, refer to the Product Safety Australia website.
To determine the manufacturing date of your fire extinguisher, start by inspecting the cylinder itself. In most cases, the date will be stamped into the metal at the base of the cylinder or printed near the product label as part of a serial or batch number. This is standard practice across all reputable extinguisher manufacturers in Australia.
Fire extinguishers don’t technically expire the way food or medicine does, but that doesn’t mean they can be left unchecked. Even if a unit appears untouched, fire extinguisher testing is critical to ensure it's pressurised, operational, and compliant.
Knowing the manufacturing date is essential for compliance with AS/NZS 1851:2012. This standard requires that portable fire extinguishers undergo regular inspections and pressure testing, including a hydrostatic test every five years from the date of manufacture. Failing to identify or act on this timeline can result in non-compliance and, more importantly, unreliable equipment in the event of an emergency.
This maintenance schedule isn’t just a recommendation - it forms part of your legal obligations under your annual fire safety statement, which confirms that all fire protection equipment on your premises is in proper working order. If servicing has been missed or records are incomplete, the extinguisher may need to be replaced, even if it looks fine on the outside.
At Alexon, we’re dedicated to making fire safety simple and reliable, which means ensuring your fire extinguishers are ready when you need them most. Fire extinguishers are a critical part of any fire safety plan. But simply having one on site isn’t enough.
Like all essential safety equipment, fire extinguishers require regular checks to confirm they’re in good working order, properly mounted, and fully compliant with Australian fire safety standards.
Routine fire extinguisher maintenance involves visually inspecting the unit for damage, checking pressure gauges, confirming the safety seals are intact, and verifying that everyone on site knows its location and proper use. These simple, regular inspections can make a vital difference during a fire emergency.
If you’re unsure whether your fire extinguishers need servicing, recharging, or replacement (or if you want expert advice on maintenance and compliance), contact the team at Alexon today. We’ll help you stay protected and confident that your fire safety measures are up to standard.
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