Most people know that fire extinguishers need a quick monthly inspection, but fewer realize that NFPA 10 also requires a thorough annual maintenance check. This yearly service goes far beyond looking at gauges and seals, it ensures that every extinguisher on your property is fully functional, safe, and compliant.
If you’re responsible for building safety, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Annual Maintenance
Annual maintenance is a complete, detailed examination of each fire extinguisher performed once every 12 months. Unlike monthly inspections, this work must be done by a trained and certified fire protection technician.
The purpose is to confirm that the extinguisher:
- Is mechanically sound
- Is fully charged
- Will operate as designed
- Meets all NFPA 10 and manufacturer requirements
Annual maintenance also resets the clock for hydrostatic testing, internal inspections, and replacement schedules.
What Does the Technician Check?
During annual maintenance, the technician performs a deep dive into the extinguisher’s condition, including:
1. Mechanical parts
- Trigger and handles
- Safety pin and tamper seal
- Valve assembly
- Neck rings and threads
- External corrosion, dents, or impact damage
Everything must be functional and free of defects.
2. The extinguishing agent
Depending on the type of extinguisher, this may include:
- Checking the condition of the dry chemical
- Weighing COâ‚‚ or clean-agent units
- Confirming proper agent levels
- Ensuring no caking, hardening, or settling
If any agent is compromised, the extinguisher must be emptied, serviced, and recharged.
3. Pressure and integrity
- Gauge accuracy
- Shell integrity
- Verification of proper pressure
- Leak testing if necessary
This ensures the extinguisher will deliver agent as intended.
4. Hose, nozzle, and discharge components
Technicians check that:
- Hoses are free of cracks or blockages
- Nozzles are clean and unobstructed
- O-rings and gaskets are in good condition
A compromised discharge path can render an extinguisher useless.
When Is Internal Maintenance Required?
Some extinguishers must be opened, emptied, and internally inspected on specific schedules (often every 5 or 6 years), depending on the model. NFPA 10 sets these intervals for:
- Dry chemical extinguishers
- Stored-pressure extinguishers
- Cartridge-operated extinguishers
- Clean agent units
The annual visit is when the technician checks whether an extinguisher is due for internal service or hydrostatic testing.
Hydrostatic Testing Checks
During annual maintenance, the technician confirms whether cylinders are approaching their required hydrotest date. This ensures extinguishers aren’t kept in service past safe pressure-vessel limits.
Tagging and Documentation
After the maintenance is complete, the technician updates the extinguisher with:
- A new maintenance tag showing date and technician credentials
- Any required service labels (e.g., recharge, hydrotest, internal exam)
- Notes on deficiencies and corrective actions
Proper documentation keeps your facility compliant and protects you during inspections or audits.
Why Annual Maintenance Matters
Even if an extinguisher looks fine, hidden problems can make it fail when needed most. Annual maintenance:
- Guarantees compliance with NFPA 10 and local fire codes
- Ensures extinguisher reliability in an emergency
- Identifies aging or unsafe pressure vessels
- Helps confirm proper placement and accessibility
It’s a small investment that can prevent catastrophic loss.
Final Thoughts Annual maintenance is not just a recommendation, it’s a requirement that plays a major role in life safety. Partnering with a qualified fire protection company ensures your extinguishers are ready for action and your facility stays code-compliant year-round.
