Firematic
Fire Extinguisher FAQ
Do you have questions about fire extinguisher service, tagging, or regulations? This page includes the full FAQ set.
Frequently Asked Questions
For direct help, call 631-924-3181.
What services does Firematic provide?
We service all types of portable fire extinguishers, plus fire hose, emergency lighting signs, bulbs, and batteries. We also stock hanging scales for monthly quick checks.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express), purchase orders with established credit, checks, and cash. Online purchases accept debit/credit cards.
Do you provide and install fire equipment?
Yes. We sell portable extinguishers, cabinets, hose, and fire safety signs, and we install surface-mounted portable extinguishers.
Can you provide quotes for items not listed on the website?
Yes. Contact our sales staff for quotes large or small. If we do not stock an item, we can usually source it through our industry network.
Why do I need fire extinguishers installed in my business?
They help protect occupants and property from small fires becoming major losses. They are also commonly required by law and insurance requirements, including OSHA 1910.157 and local fire code requirements.
Who is responsible for maintaining fire extinguishers?
The owner/occupant is responsible for inspection, maintenance, and recharging (NFPA 10 Section 7.1.1).
Why are there different types of fire extinguishers?
Different fire hazards require different extinguishing agents. Classes are A (ordinary combustibles), B (flammable liquids/gases), C (energized electrical), D (combustible metals), and K (cooking oils/fats).
What types of extinguishers do I need for my business?
Selection is based on hazards present, risk profile, and applicable code. NFPA 10 placement and local requirements should be used for final decisions.
How many fire extinguishers do I need?
Most jurisdictions use occupancy hazard class and travel-distance criteria. A common baseline is a 2A:10BC 5 lb multipurpose dry chemical extinguisher, but many locales require higher minimum ratings.
Why are there so many labels and tags on my extinguisher?
Tags and labels document class/rating, manufacturer instructions, monthly inspections, annual maintenance, internal service collar history, and hydrostatic test compliance history.
What are the maintenance requirements?
Typical program includes monthly owner checks, annual maintenance, internal 6-year maintenance (tear down), and hydrostatic testing intervals based on extinguisher type.
What is hydrostatic testing?
Hydrostatic testing verifies cylinder integrity by pressure testing to specified limits and hold durations to detect leaks, bulges, cracks, or fatigue before returning to service.
Why do extinguishers need hydrostatic testing?
It is required by standards and law for many extinguisher types and helps confirm safe pressure retention and operation.
Why is hydrostatic testing expensive?
It requires specialized equipment, trained technicians, compliant procedures, and more labor time than standard annual service or recharge work.
Can hydrostatic testing be done on-site?
No. It is typically performed in dedicated test facilities with specialized equipment and controls.
How often is hydrostatic testing required?
Most water, foam, wet chemical, and CO2 extinguishers are on 5-year intervals. Many dry chemical and halogenated agent types are on 12-year intervals (per NFPA 10 table guidance and model type).
What are the steps involved in hydrostatic testing?
The full process includes depressurizing/recovering agent, disassembly and internal inspection, water-fill and pressure test, hold verification, defect inspection, drain/dry, then retagging. If it fails, the cylinder must be removed from service.
Am I required to keep maintenance records?
Yes. Records help demonstrate compliance and are important for insurance, legal, and incident documentation.
Am I required to replace extinguishers periodically?
It depends on type and condition. Some extinguishers are non-rechargeable or obsolete and must be replaced. Certain older designs are prohibited from continued service.
Am I required to train employees on extinguisher use?
Yes, where employees are expected to use extinguishers. Firematic provides training support.