The Lifecycle of Fire Protection Equipment: When to Repair, Recharge, or Replace

TL;DR Quick Guide

• Fire extinguishers: Recharge after use, replace after 12 years or damage.
  
• Alarms & detectors: Test annually, replace smoke detectors every 10 years.
  
• Sprinklers: Inspect regularly, replace heads every 50 years or as needed.
  
• Emergency lights & signs: Replace batteries every 3–5 years.
  
• Kitchen suppression systems: Recharge after discharge, inspect every 6 months.
  
• Follow NFPA and local codes to determine repair vs. replacement timelines.
  

Why Lifecycle Management Matters

Fire protection equipment isn’t “set it and forget it.” Over time, systems degrade, components expire, and regulations evolve. Ignoring lifecycle milestones leads to:

• Equipment failure during emergencies
  
• Failed inspections and fines
  
• Increased liability for your business
  

Knowing when to repair, recharge, or replace ensures compliance, safety, and operational reliability.

Key Components and Their Lifecycles

1. Fire Extinguishers

• Recharge after any use—even partial.
  
• Repair if hoses, gauges, or pins are damaged.
  
• Replace every 12 years (dry chemical) or if failed during hydrostatic testing.
  

🔧 Tip: Tag each unit with inspection and service dates to track lifespan.

2. Fire Alarm Systems

• Repair control panels, batteries, or sensors if functionality drops.
  
• Replace backup batteries every 3–5 years.
  
• Replace smoke detectors every 10 years, per NFPA 72.
  

📋 Annual inspections are required, and any failures should trigger immediate repair or replacement.

3. Sprinkler Systems

• Repair leaks, corrosion, or mechanical damage immediately.
  
• Replace sprinkler heads every 50 years (standard heads).
  
• Replace fast-response heads every 20 years or as recommended after testing.
  

🧪 Internal pipe inspections are required every 5 years—corrosion or blockages may require full replacement.

4. Emergency Lighting & Exit Signs

• Recharge/Replace batteries every 3–5 years.
  
• Repair malfunctioning units after monthly tests.
  
• Replace entire units if lights fail during the required 90-minute annual test.
  

5. Kitchen Fire Suppression Systems

• Recharge after any discharge or pressure drop.
  
• Repair clogged nozzles or damaged lines.
• ‍Replace tanks or detection components per manufacturer and local code requirements (typically every 12 years).

🍳 Systems in commercial kitchens must be inspected semi-annually.

6. Fire Doors

• Repair door hardware, latches, or seals to maintain integrity.
  
• Replace doors that warp, fail clearance tests, or are damaged beyond NFPA 80 standards.
  
• Test annually—certification must be current.

‍

Repair vs. Replace: How to Decide

Condition

Action

Reason

Minor wear or damaged accessory

Repair

Cost-effective fix; no safety compromise

Used fire extinguisher

Recharge

Required even if partially used

Component failed annual test

Replace

Compliance and performance failure

Obsolete model or code update

Replace

New codes or standards require updated equipment

Corrosion, leakage, physical damage

Replace

Safety and structural risk

‍

Industry Best Practices

• Tag equipment with inspection and service logs
  
• Digitally track lifecycle milestones using CRM or Airtable
  
• Work with a certified provider for testing, documentation, and compliance guidance
  
• Use NFPA and AHJ guidance to schedule replacements proactively
  

Key Takeaways

• Fire protection equipment has defined lifecycles—don’t wait for failure to act.
  
• Fire extinguishers, alarms, sprinklers, and lighting each have unique service timelines.
  
• Recharge and repair when possible; replace when systems are expired or damaged.
  
• Regular inspections help you catch issues early and plan proactively.
  
• Partnering with a fire protection expert ensures you stay compliant and protected.
  
  

FAQs

1. How often should fire extinguishers be replaced?
Typically every 12 years for dry chemical extinguishers, or sooner if damaged or failed testing.

2. Can fire alarm components be repaired instead of replaced?
Yes, depending on the issue. Batteries and sensors can be repaired, but expired units should be replaced.

3. What if my kitchen suppression system was triggered once?
It must be fully recharged and inspected by a professional before being returned to service.

4. Is it mandatory to replace exit sign batteries?
Yes. Batteries should be replaced every 3–5 years or immediately if they fail the 90-minute test.

‍5. How do I know when it’s time to replace a sprinkler head?
Follow NFPA timelines (typically 50 years) and replace early if there's visible corrosion or mechanical failure.