How Do I Clean Fire Extinguisher Residue?

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

Having a portable fire extinguisher within reach is a fast and effective response for when a minor fire breaks out in your home.

How Do I Clean Fire Extinguisher Residue? 

Having a fire extinguisher in your home can make the difference between dealing with a huge disaster or dealing with a mess. Unfortunately, if you do have to use a fire extinguisher to put out a fire in your home, you will be left with the residue to clean. The chemicals used in a fire extinguisher are hazardous to humans and pets, so you need to remove all the leftover residue. Most ABC multi-purpose fire extinguishers contain ammonium phosphate or ammonium sulfate powder; these chemicals will irritate your eyes, skin, and lungs. Before you begin cleaning, you need to identify the dousing agent used in the fire extinguisher, so you can effectively remove and clean any leftover residue from your home. All fire extinguishers will have a label or tag that tells you what type of fire extinguishers it is and what it contains. Always remember to wear an n95 dust mask, goggles, and nitrile gloves to avoid an allergic reaction when cleaning.

A dry chemical fire extinguisher with non-toxic bicarbonate will leave behind a powdery residue. To clean up this powdery residue, you only need a vacuum, your hands, and a disinfectant. When it safe for you to do so, remove any large debris left behind after the fire. Next, grab your vacuum and begin going over the area to clean up the leftover mess. You may need to go over the area several times to remove all of the residue. If you are cleaning the kitchen or space used for food prep, sanitize the area thoroughly with a disinfectant.

A multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher containing mono ammonium phosphate requires a different method of cleaning. Unfortunately, you cannot vacuum up the left behind residue. You must quickly remove this residue by hand. Wear nitrile gloves and wipe the leftover residue with a clean cloth. If you can wet-wash the surface, use a 1:1 solution of warm water and baking soda. Thoroughly dry and sanitize the area once you have cleaned up all the residue.

If you have fire extinguisher residue in your home and aren't successful at cleaning it up, give SERVPRO of South Greenville County a call (864) 292 - 3137. Our top-of-the-line technology and cleaning products paired with our highly trained technicians will make it "Like it never even happened."