How often should a dry chemical or dry powder extinguisher be maintained according to the 12-year hydro schedule?

A dry chemical or dry powder extinguisher must undergo maintenance every six years based on the guidelines of the 12-year hydrostatic testing schedule. This maintenance typically involves a thorough examination by a qualified professional to ensure the extinguisher is functioning properly and meet safety standards.

Following this six-year maintenance, the extinguisher will also require hydrostatic testing every 12 years to verify the integrity of the cylinder and the effectiveness of the pressurization system. This frequency of checks helps to ensure that the extinguisher remains reliable and effective in an emergency situation.

In contrast, while certain types of extinguishers might require annual inspections for basic operational checks, the specific schedule for dry chemical extinguishers relies on that six-year timeline to incorporate comprehensive servicing, making it essential for proper fire safety compliance.