Did you know? Fire extinguishers have expiry dates too! Over time, the pressure inside can drop, seals can deteriorate, and the contents may no longer function effectively in an emergency.
Once an extinguisher reaches its end of life, it’s important not to simply toss it in the bin, as pressurised containers can be dangerous if handled incorrectly. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to safely and responsibly dispose of old fire extinguishers, whether they’re empty, expired, or damaged.
How Can You Dispose Of An Old Fire Extinguisher?
Old fire extinguishers can't be thrown in your regular household bins, as they contain pressurised materials and potentially hazardous substances. In Australia, residents have several environmentally safe and legal options for disposing of them. Depending on the type of extinguisher (dry chemical, CO2, or water), the disposal method may vary, but the key is to ensure it's handled by professionals who can either recycle or safely neutralise the contents, not try and recycle the contents yourself.
1. Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Location
In Australia, Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) can be dropped off for free at designated HHW collection sites. For example in Perth, one of the main locations is the Tamala Park Recycling Centre (Mindarie), operated by the Mindarie Regional Council. These facilities accept small fire extinguishers from residents as part of the HHW program. This ensures that both the chemicals and metals are disposed of or recycled properly, without harm to the environment or public safety. Contact your local HHW centre for more information.
2. Return it to the Manufacturer
Some fire extinguisher manufacturers take back their old units for safe disposal or recycling. Check the brand label or visit the manufacturer’s website to see if they offer a take-back program or recycling service. Some companies will accept their products at designated drop-off points or through authorised fire safety service providers.
3. Take it to a Local Fire Station
Certain fire stations accept old extinguishers for recyling and proper disposal but it's important to contact your local fire station first before dropping off a fire extinguisher, as policies for accepting non-halon extinguishers vary. Only the yellow-bodied halon extinguishers, which are illegal for general use, are universally accepted by fire stations, which then send them to the National Halon Bank for safe recycling. For other types, a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) centre or a specialised fire protection company is often a more reliable disposal option.
4. Take it to a Private Fire Protection Company
Many licensed fire protection companies across Australia are equipped to handle old or expired fire extinguishers. These businesses can safely depressurise, dismantle, and recycle the extinguishers in accordance with environmental regulations. Some may even offer a trade-in or disposal service when you purchase a replacement unit. This is often the most convenient option for workplaces, strata buildings, or anyone with multiple extinguishers to dispose of. Always ensure you choose a company accredited under Australian Standards (AS 1851) to guarantee compliant and environmentally responsible handling.
Why Proper Fire Extinguisher Disposal Matters
1. Pressurised Fire Extinguisher Canisters Can Be Dangerous
2. Chemical Waste Hazards Require Special Handling
3. Fire Safety Regulations Apply
4. Recycling Potential
5. Community Safety
Can You Recycle Fire Extinguishers?
Yes, fire extinguishers can be recycled through specialised waste recycling facilities that can safely handle hazardous waste.
Fire extinguishers are recycled through a process that separates their metal components and any remaining chemicals. The steel cylinder, which forms the main body, is 100% recyclable and can be melted down to make new products like car parts or railway tracks.
Brass fittings, such as valves and nozzles, are also melted and reused, while other metals like aluminium and stainless steel are sorted and recycled by specialised facilities. Chemical contents are handled carefully, dry chemical powder (DCP) from ABE extinguishers can be vacuumed out, processed, and even reused as fertiliser.
Carbon dioxide from CO2 extinguishers is safely vented by professionals, allowing the cylinder to be reused. Water-based extinguishers are simply emptied and their metal casings recycled.
How Do I Know if My Fire Extinguisher Needs to be Disposed of or Recycled?
Like most safety equipment, fire extinguishers don’t last forever. Over time, pressure levels can drop, components can wear out, and the extinguisher may no longer work as intended during an emergency. Knowing how to tell when it’s time to replace or recycle your extinguisher helps you stay protected, and ensures it’s handled responsibly.
Check the pressure gauge
Most fire extinguishers have a small pressure gauge on the top or side. If the needle is in the red zone (too high or too low), the extinguisher may no longer be safe or effective and should be serviced or replaced.
Look for damage or corrosion
Dents, rust, leaks, or a cracked nozzle are clear signs that the extinguisher is unsafe to use and should be disposed of properly.
Check the inspection tag or label
Fire extinguishers typically have service tags showing their last inspection date. If it hasn’t been serviced in over a year, it’s time for a professional check-up.
Find the manufacture or expiry date
Most extinguishers last between 5 to 15 years, depending on the type. You’ll usually find the manufacture date stamped on the neck or base of the cylinder. If it’s past its service life or the pressure can’t be maintained, it should be replaced or recycled.
Test the weight
If the extinguisher feels unusually light, it may have discharged or leaked. In that case, it’s no longer usable and should be safely disposed of.
Want More Fire Safety Advice? Contact Fullworks Fire Safety Today!
At Fullworks Fire Safety, we’re committed to helping you stay protected while keeping safety and sustainability top of mind. Properly disposing of old fire extinguishers not only prevents potential hazards but also ensures recyclable materials are recovered responsibly.
Whether you need advice on safe disposal, extinguisher servicing, or replacing outdated units, our team is here to make the process simple and compliant with Australian standards. Reach out to our friendly team today to ensure your home or business stays fire-ready and environmentally responsible.
