Transforming Extinguishers: Filling Red Fire Extinguishers With Paint

Filling a red fire extinguisher with paint involves a few simple steps. Firstly, it is important to find a water-pressurized fire extinguisher, which are usually metallic silver and come in two sizes. The next step is to empty the extinguisher of its contents and pressure and unscrew the top. For a large extinguisher, one can pour in a gallon of latex paint and half a gallon of water, ensuring there is still room for air. The top can then be screwed back on, and the extinguisher should be shaken to mix its contents. Finally, the extinguisher should be pressurized to the green zone on the gauge with a bike pump. It is important to note that filling a fire extinguisher with paint can be dangerous, and one must be cautious when handling pressurized equipment.

Find a water-pressurized fire extinguisher

To find a water-pressurized fire extinguisher, you can look for the Amerex 240 model, which is a 2.5-gallon stored pressure water fire extinguisher. It is designed for Class A fires, which involve combustibles like wood, paper, textiles, trash, rubber, fabrics, and plastics. This type of extinguisher is ideal for homes, offices, schools, and other settings prone to Class A fires.

The Amerex 240 model utilizes a 45-55 ft. pressure stream of water for maximum cooling, soaking, and penetration, with a 55-second discharge time. It is easy to refill and recharge using an air compressor and can be purchased online from authorized dealers such as Cascade Fire Equipment and Fire Supply Depot.

Another option is the Amerex Corp. 20900 Pressurized Water Extinguisher, also available from Cascade Fire Equipment. This extinguisher has a similar capacity of 2-½ gallons and can discharge water up to 45-55 feet. It is designed for effective firefighting against Class A fires and features a user-friendly design, making it suitable for both professional and personal use.

When searching for a water-pressurized fire extinguisher, it is important to ensure that it is designed for the type of fire you intend to use it for. In this case, look for extinguishers that specify they are for Class A fires. Additionally, pay attention to the discharge range and duration, as a longer discharge range allows for a safer distance during firefighting, and a longer discharge duration ensures thorough fire suppression.

It is worth noting that water-pressurized fire extinguishers should not be used on electrical fires. For such fires, a different type of extinguisher, such as a carbon dioxide or dry powder extinguisher, would be more appropriate. Always prioritize safety and ensure you have the correct equipment for your specific needs.

Empty the extinguisher and unscrew the top

To begin the process of turning a fire extinguisher into a paint sprayer, you must first empty the extinguisher. This is a crucial step as you will be filling the extinguisher with paint and you do not want the paint to mix with the contents of the extinguisher. Spray the contents out until the pressure gauge reaches 0 psi. It is important to note that this step is not just about emptying the extinguisher but also about ensuring that there is no pressure left in the device. Pressurized air can be dangerous, and if not handled properly, it can lead to explosions or injuries.

Once the extinguisher is empty and depressurized, you can move on to the next step, which is unscrewing the top. The top of the extinguisher is usually attached with a nut, so you will need to use a wrench or a similar tool to unscrew it. Be careful not to damage the threads or the seal, as you will need to replace the top securely later. It is also a good idea to wear gloves during this process to avoid leaving fingerprints on the extinguisher, which can be important if you intend to use the device for any clandestine activities.

The process of emptying and unscrewing the top of the fire extinguisher is a crucial step in preparing the device for its new purpose as a paint sprayer. It is important to take your time and be careful during this process to ensure that the extinguisher is completely empty and depressurized before proceeding. Once the top is unscrewed, you can set it aside and move on to the next step of filling the extinguisher with paint.

Some sources recommend filling the extinguisher with water and spraying it out before introducing paint. This is a good way to test the functionality of the extinguisher and ensure that it is completely clean inside. After spraying out the water, you can then proceed to pour in the paint, being careful not to fill it too full so that there is still room for air. This process of emptying, cleaning, and refilling the extinguisher is an important step in transforming it into a tool for creative expression or, in some cases, a tool for protest and activism.

Pour in paint and water

To fill a red fire extinguisher with paint, you will first need to empty the extinguisher of its contents and pressure, and unscrew the top. It is important to wear gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints on the extinguisher.

Once the extinguisher is empty and the pressure gauge reaches 0 psi, you can start preparing the paint mixture. For the large version of the extinguisher, pour in one gallon of latex paint using a funnel, and then half a gallon of water. It is important to leave some room for air so that the extinguisher can be pressurised later.

Replace the top of the extinguisher and shake the contents for a few minutes to mix the paint and water together. After this, you can start the process of pressurising the extinguisher. Ensure that you do not over-pressurise the extinguisher and keep an eye on the pressure gauge. There is a red region on this gauge—do not let it enter this zone, as the extinguisher could explode.

Once the extinguisher is pressurised, you can wipe it down with rubbing alcohol to remove any remaining fingerprints. Now, your paint-filled fire extinguisher is ready to use!

Replace the top and shake

Once you've poured in the paint and water, it's time to replace the top of the fire extinguisher and shake it. This step is crucial to ensure that the paint and water mixture is thoroughly combined and ready for use. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Replace the Top

• After pouring in the desired amount of paint and water, carefully replace the top of the fire extinguisher. Ensure that it is securely tightened. The tightness of the top will help maintain the pressure inside the extinguisher.
• It is important to note that the fire extinguisher's top should have a nut that allows for easy removal and replacement. If the top doesn't have a nut, you may need to find an alternative method to securely fasten it.

Shake the Extinguisher

• With the top securely replaced, it's now time to shake the fire extinguisher vigorously. Hold the extinguisher with both hands and shake it back and forth for several minutes. Ensure that you are wearing gloves to protect your hands and maintain a firm grip.
• Shaking the extinguisher mixes the paint and water, creating a homogeneous mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a consistent paint spray when using the extinguisher.
• Shake the extinguisher until you can no longer hear the sound of the liquid sloshing around inside. This sound indicates that the contents are not yet fully mixed.
• During the shaking process, be cautious and ensure that the top remains securely tightened. You don't want any paint leaking out, and a tight seal helps maintain the necessary pressure.

By following these steps, you will have successfully mixed your paint and water solution inside the fire extinguisher, ready for your creative endeavours. Remember to wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, throughout the process to ensure your safety and avoid any unwanted paint stains.

Repressurize the extinguisher

To repressurize a fire extinguisher, you will need access to pressurized air. If your extinguisher has a Schrader valve, like those found on bike tires, you can use a bike pump to repressurize it. Alternatively, if you have an air compressor, you may be able to use a tire-filling attachment to repressurize the extinguisher. If you do not have access to an air compressor, you can likely find one at a gas station.

Before attempting to repressurize the extinguisher, ensure that the pressure gauge is within the optimal range. The needle on the gauge should be pointing to the green area. If the pressure gauge is in the "Recharge" position or reading in the "Over-Pressurized Range" (indicated by a red region on the gauge), do not attempt to repressurize the extinguisher yourself, as this could be dangerous. Instead, bring it to a fire protection technician for service.

When repressurizing the extinguisher, tighten the handle securely with a wrench. As you pressurize the extinguisher, keep a close eye on the pressure gauge. Ensure that it does not enter the red region, as this could lead to an explosion.

Once you have finished repressurizing the extinguisher, perform a leak test to check for any signs of leakage. Additionally, weigh the extinguisher to confirm that its total weight is within the allowable tolerance indicated by the manufacturer.

Frequently asked questions