What is the validity period of a car fire extinguisher?
2 Answers
There are two types of validity periods for car fire extinguishers: 1. The extinguisher cylinder, which has a validity period of 8 years; 2. The extinguishing agent, which has a shorter validity period, around one year. Car fire extinguishers mainly include dry powder extinguishers, ultra-fine dry powder extinguishers, carbon dioxide extinguishers, and water-based extinguishers, with dry powder extinguishers being the most commonly used. Dry powder extinguishers use carbon dioxide liquid or nitrogen to spray dry powder for fire suppression. Car fire extinguishers are equipped with pressure gauges. If the needle on the gauge is in the green range, it indicates normal pressure and proper functioning; if it is in the yellow range, it indicates excessive pressure, and if it is in the red range, it indicates insufficient pressure. Both of these conditions can affect the extinguishing performance, and the extinguisher should be replaced promptly.
I've been driving for over a decade and never take car fire extinguishers lightly. These typically have a 6-year lifespan, but the key is to check if the pressure gauge needle stays in the green zone. I inspect mine monthly, terrified of seeing the needle drop into the red. Fire extinguishers hate heat - trunk temperatures can hit 50°C in summer, so I keep mine in an insulated bag. Two years ago when I noticed pressure dropping, I rushed to a fire equipment store for powder refill, saving 60 yuan versus buying new. Never leave expired extinguishers in your car - pressurized containers can explode. Nowadays, water-based extinguishers last 3 years while dry powder types last 6 years - always check the manufacturing date sticker when purchasing.
