Your trusty fire extinguisher has been standing guard for years, ready to handle any sparks that might come your way. But now it’s reached the end of its service life, and you need to part ways. Don't worry—we’ve got you covered! Here’s your guide to safely and responsibly disposing of that old fire extinguisher (without making things go up in smoke).
Why your old fire extinguisher shouldn’t go into the trash
Fire extinguishers are pressurized canisters filled with chemicals, and improperly disposing of them could cause more harm than good.
- Explosive risk: Fire extinguishers are pressurized, so if they're punctured or exposed to heat, there's a chance they could blow their lid (literally!).
- Hazardous materials: They also contain chemicals that, if released improperly, could harm the environment. Definitely not the way you want to make a lasting impact.
So, let’s avoid making any fiery messes, shall we? There are better ways to dispose of your extinguisher that are safer and more eco-friendly!
How to safely dispose of old fire extinguishers
Don’t worry! Disposing of your fire extinguisher safely doesn’t need to be complicated. Let’s go over the best options so you can get it off your hands without any drama.
Where to recycle fire extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are considered hazardous waste, which means they require special handling. But don’t worry, they’re still recyclable! Here’s where you can take your old extinguisher:
- Local fire department – Some fire departments accept expired or used extinguishers for safe disposal. Check with your local heroes!
- Household hazardous waste (HHW) facility – These facilities are designed for hazardous items like fire extinguishers, so they’ll know exactly how to dispose of it safely.
- Recycling centers – Many local recycling centers can take fire extinguishers. Just double-check with them before you go!
- Retail drop-offs – Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s occasionally offer drop-off events for fire extinguishers, especially for special promotions or trade-in events.
Junk removal services
If you’re looking for a no-hassle option, junk pick up services like 1-800-GOT-JUNK? can make your fire extinguisher disappear–all you have to do is point. We’ll make sure it’s properly recycled—no fire hazards involved!
(Note: Not every junk removal franchise will accept fire extinguishers due to their hazardous nature, but we can definitely help you figure out the best route.)
Is it time to replace your fire extinguisher?
Fire extinguishers are typically good for 5 to 15 years, depending on the model. If yours is nearing the end of its life or you’re unsure about its condition, here are a few ways to tell if it’s time to replace your fire extinguisher:
- Check the pressure gauge: Make sure the needle is in the green zone. If it’s in the red zone, either undercharged or overcharged, you may need to replace it or have it refilled.
- Inspect the tag: Look at the inspection tag for the last inspection date. If it’s outdated or missing, it could be time for a new extinguisher.
- Manufacturing date: Check the manufacturing date on the fire extinguisher. If it’s older than 10-15 years, it’s time to consider a replacement.
- Signs of damage: Look for dents, rust, cracks, or other visible damage. If any of these are present, it’s a good idea to replace the extinguisher.
Some fire extinguishers can be refilled. If your extinguisher is refillable, check with your local fire department to see if they offer this service or know where you can get it done.
Lastly, if you need to get rid of an expired fire extinguisher, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? might be able to pick it up for proper disposal. We’re happy to help!
We take all kinds of junk
At 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, we take all kinds of junk—including fire extinguishers (when permitted). We make it easy to safely dispose of your unwanted items without the stress or hassle. Plus, we’ll make sure it’s done in an environmentally responsible way.
