Is the expiry of ABC fire extinguisher really yearly?

Depending on the fire bylaws in your area, the CERTIFICATION of an ABC extinguisher may expire yearly. Most areas require all commercial and industrial extinguishers to be inspected and re-certified by a licenced inspector annually.

Most commercial establishments contract out their fire protection systems, and that contracted company will automatically provide annual inspections, recertifications, and equipment replacement as required.

In terms of a residential or personal extingisher in your home, best practice calls for annual or semi-annual inspection. This is as simple as checking the pressure gauge to ensure it reads within the green or 'charged' zone, and is not over or under charged. Since an ABC extinguisher contains a dry chemical which can settle over time, it is also advisable to invert the extinguisher for a few seconds to allow any settled chemical to lift off of the bottom. (You will be able to hear movement within the cylinder if you listen closely).