Are Vehicle Fire Extinguishers Afraid of High Temperatures Inside the Car?
4 Answers
Vehicle fire extinguishers are afraid of high temperatures inside the car, which may cause explosions, so precautions are necessary. Even if the temperature inside the car is higher than the outdoor temperature, the vehicle fire extinguisher generally will not explode as long as other components in the car are not damaged by the high temperature. However, prolonged exposure to sunlight or extended heating in a fire scene may lead to an explosion. Here are some precautions for vehicle fire extinguishers: 1. Fire extinguishers cannot withstand high temperatures, so to avoid accidents, they should not be placed inside the passenger compartment; 2. Consumers are advised to purchase fire extinguishers produced by reputable manufacturers.
As a frequent driver, I'm particularly concerned about the safety of car fire extinguishers under high temperatures. During summer, in-car temperatures can soar above 50°C, causing a sudden increase in internal pressure since most extinguishers are compressed gas canisters, like dry powder or CO2 types. High temperatures may deform pressure vessels, cause leaks, or even explosions, especially when left in a sun-exposed vehicle. My recommendation is to store the extinguisher in a shaded corner of the trunk, avoiding the dashboard or direct sunlight areas, while regularly checking the pressure gauge—if the needle reaches the red zone, replace it immediately. Additionally, heat may cause the extinguishing agent to clump or accelerate aging, making it ineffective, so I check the expiration date every six months and replace it accordingly. Remember, safe driving isn't just about road rules—these small details also determine reliability in critical moments.
I've driven quite a few long-distance trips and personally experienced how high temperatures in the car can affect fire extinguishers. Once when I parked in the desert, the car was extremely hot, and the fire extinguisher canister became warm; later, I looked it up and learned that high temperatures can cause gas expansion, increasing internal pressure. If it exceeds design limits, it can indeed rupture or fail. Many vehicle fire extinguishers have an operating temperature range of -30 to 50 degrees, but in reality, summer car interiors often exceed this limit. So now I always store the fire extinguisher under the car floor mat, where it's relatively cooler. Regular maintenance is also crucial: check the appearance and pressure monthly—don't wait until an emergency to discover issues. When buying, choose reputable brands; cheaper ones have worse tolerance. High temperatures can also cause the powder to clump, making it unusable when needed—don't overlook these potential risks.
With years of experience in vehicle accessories, I can confirm that car fire extinguishers indeed face significant issues with high temperatures. Elevated temperatures cause the gas inside the canister to expand, increasing pressure, which may lead to leaks or even explosion risks. Standard fire extinguishers are designed for temperatures up to around 50°C, but car interiors often exceed 60°C in summer, posing substantial hazards. Storage recommendations include placing them in the trunk to avoid direct sunlight and regularly checking the pressure gauge and expiration date. High temperatures also accelerate aging and shorten lifespan, so it's essential to purchase high-quality products.
