Portable fire extinguishers can really come in handy in the event of a small fire. But before you can go back to business, don’t forget to clean up the fire extinguisher residue!

Because there are different types of extinguishers, a different cleaning method must be used for each.

Cleaning Fire Extinguisher Residue from a Dry Chemical Extinguisher

Dry chemical extinguishers are the most common and versatile fire extinguishers as they can put out class A, B, and C fires. They’re typical in industrial and commercial buildings, but they contain fire fighting agents like monoammonium phosphate, sodium bicarbonate, and potassium bicarbonate, which leave behind a corrosive powder. The corrosive powder can damage electronics and metal surfaces when they come in contact so it’s important to act fast.

Note: The chemicals inside Dry Chemical Extinguishers can be hazardous so don’t forget to use a dust mask, goggles, and gloves.

  1. Vacuum or sweep up as much of the excess residue as possible
  2. Mix together a solution of 50% isopropyl alcohol and 50% warm water then spray the area to break up the leftover silicone. Let the solution settle for about five minutes then rinse the area using warm water.
  3. To treat sodium bicarbonate and potassium bicarbonate based dry chemicals, mix together a solution using 98% hot water and 2% vinegar and wash the area with it. Let the solution settle for about five minutes then rinse the area using   warm water.
  4. To treat monoammonium phosphate based dry chemical, mix together a solution using hot water and baking soda. Let the solution settle for about five minutes  then rinse the area using warm water.
  5. Wash and rinse the area with a solution made of soap and water.
  6. Use a fan to spot dry the wet areas.

Cleaning Fire Extinguisher Residue from a Wet Chemical Extinguisher

Wet chemical extinguishers are perfect for putting out class K fires that involve grease. That’s why they’re often used in commercial kitchens and restaurants.

Note: Protect your hands and eyes from the wet chemical residue by using goggles and gloves.

  1. Turn off all fuel sources connected to your cooking equipment.
  2. Use gloves to clean up any residue using hot water mixed with soap. Scrub the area using a sponge or cloth.
  3. Rinse the surfaces and affected areas.
  4. Allow the area to dry before you turn back on any of your equipment.

Cleaning Fire Extinguisher Residue from a Dry Powder Extinguisher

Dry powder extinguishers are ideal for putting out class D fires involving combustible metals such as magnesium and titanium found in machinery used in warehouses and factories.

Note: Protect your hands and eyes from the dry powder residue by using goggles and gloves.

  1. Clean up the powder residue by using a vacuum or a brush.
  2. Place all the powder from the vacuum cleaner or that has been swept up into a plastic bag and seal it. Dispose of the bag in the trash can.
  3. Use a damp cloth to clean any residue of powder off affected surfaces.

For these and more tips related to fire protection or to set up a consultation for extinguisher services please visit our website.