When it comes to fire extinguisher servicing, many businesses are tempted by offers of incredibly low servicing fees or cheap unit prices. On the surface, these deals may seem too good to pass up, but they often come with a hidden catch: inflated charges for minor parts that need replacing during the service.
At first glance, a low base price for fire extinguisher maintenance might look like a bargain. However, many firms capitalize on this by marking up the cost of basic components, such as O-rings, safety pins, seals, or discharge hoses, significantly. These small, often essential parts, which should cost just a few pence or pounds, can quickly add up when they're priced disproportionately high. As a result, what started as a “low-cost” service can easily turn into a much larger bill than anticipated.
Why This Happens
Some companies use this tactic to make their services seem more affordable upfront, only to recoup the difference (and then some) through part replacements that occur during routine checks. Often, they may not be transparent about this practice until after the service is completed, leaving customers with a surprisingly large invoice they hadn’t budgeted for.
Common Overpriced Parts Include:
O-rings: These small rubber seals, which help prevent leaks, should be inexpensive but are often marked up.
Safety pins and tamper seals: Crucial for maintaining the integrity of the extinguisher, these are sometimes charged at several times their actual cost. Some companies even use specific types of plastic pins which have to be broken during every service, incurring a higher cost to replace.
Discharge hoses/horns: A necessary part that can wear over time, but should not cost as much as some companies charge for replacement.
The Real Cost to Your Business
Over time, these hidden charges can have a significant impact on your business expenses, especially if you have a large number of fire extinguishers to maintain. What may have seemed like a good deal on paper can end up costing you much more than going with a service provider who is upfront about all costs from the start.
In addition to the financial burden, the practice of inflating part prices can erode trust. It’s important to work with a service provider that is transparent and provides clear, itemized quotes so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
How We’re Different
At our company, we believe in offering fair, transparent pricing. Our servicing fees include the replacement of many standard parts, and when other components need changing, we offer them at competitive, realistic prices. You’ll never be caught off guard by unexpected add-ons or inflated charges.
We use Commander extinguishers, which have simple, generic parts that are cheap and easy to get hold of, rather than bespoke extinguishers made by companies that make huge profits from marking up the cost of spare parts.
What to Look for in a Reliable Servicing Partner:
Upfront Pricing: A company that offers clear, itemized quotes and explains what is included in the service fee.
Transparent Policies: Ensure any potential additional costs for parts are communicated before the service begins.
Competitive Part Pricing: Look for a provider who charges fairly for the replacement of minor parts, rather than using them as a profit generator.
Final Thoughts
Don’t fall into the trap of low servicing prices only to be hit with unexpected costs later. Choose a fire extinguisher service provider that values transparency and long-term customer relationships over short-term gains. After all, quality fire protection is an investment in your business’s safety — and it should never come with hidden surprises.
If you’d like a fair, clear quote for your fire extinguisher servicing needs, contact us today. We promise straightforward pricing with no hidden costs.
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