How to Recharge a Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher

Recharging (or refilling) a dry chemical fire extinguisher is a task that should be left to qualified firefighters or fire extinguisher technicians. Dry chemical extinguishers are the most common on the market, however, and with the right equipment and materials, recharging one can be relatively easy.

Things You'll Need

• Dry chemical fire extinguisher
• Dry chemical refill material
• Funnel
• Pressure machine
• Water
• Plain soap
• Dry cloth

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Instructions

• 1

  Discharge the extinguisher fully. Do this by squeezing the handles together until all of the material is expelled and the canister feels lightweight.

• 2

  Clean and check the extinguisher before recharging. Make sure that all parts are not clogged and are in working order. Use the water and plain soap to clean if necessary. Dry with the cloth.

• 3

  Open the canister by unscrewing the top where the squeeze handles are located.

• 4

  Use a funnel to control the contents

  Pour the dry chemical refilling agent into the canister by using a funnel that is placed into the opening of the canister. Common dry chemicals include sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate or ammonium phosphate.

• 5

  Continue to fill the canister with material until the predetermined level has been reached, either by the package details or the line drawn on the extinguisher canister itself.

• 6

  Screw the top back onto the extinguisher and seal it tightly.

• 7

  Attach the pressure machine to the fire extinguisher and start the machine up.

• 8

  Pressurize the extinguisher until the dial reads in the green level or at least 100-150 psi (pounds per square inch); whichever the recharging material calls for.

• 9

  Place the extinguisher back into the holder on the wall or cabinet properly. It is now ready to be used in case of emergencies.