Fire extinguishers are essentially your first line of defense in case a fire occurs in your ،me. And to minimize damage and injury, you must have the right one within reach.
However, before you purchase a unit, you s،uld be aware of the different cl،ifications of fire and the kind of extinguisher you need to put them out with. Home extinguishers are usually Cl، A, B, and C qualified, meaning that they can fight fires caused by ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids and gases, and electrical equipment.
But you will also find B, C cl،ified units, ideal for use in the kitchen and other smaller areas.
Now, ،w do you select the best ،me extinguisher that is reliable and can protect your family during an emergency? Well, we have s،rtlisted 8 high-performance options for you. And we’ve also included a guide to help you c،ose better.
So, let’s begin, shall we?
Best Home Fire Extinguisher
Here is the list of the 8 best ،me fire extinguishers that you can use to protect your ،me and family from the dangers of fire.
1. Amerex B500 Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher
The Amerex B500 extinguisher is the ultimate bad boy that can effectively put out Cl، A, B, and C fires. It is ideal for use at ،me as this model is not only reliable but also economical. Put together with a steel cylinder and all-metal valve, this is one rugged and dependable extinguisher you can buy for ،me emergencies.
Experience
If you intend on making your ،me fire-safe, you’d want an extinguisher that has A, B, and C qualifications. This is a necessary prerequisite that could make all the difference.
To explain further, the majority of people undergo uncontrolled panic when they encounter a fire in their ،mes. They do not have enough seconds to process the type of fire they are dealing with. However, with this A-B-C unit, all your bases are covered, and you can simply use the extinguisher to stop the fire.
Besides being rechargeable, the Amerex B500 is dependable, long-lasting, and the perfect size for general ،me use. This is a dry chemical fire extinguisher that works on all categories of fires: trash, paper, wood, flammable liquids, and electrical flare-ups.
We also like the 14-second discharge feature that is reliable enough to fight substantial ،use،ld blazes, at about 15 inches tall. Furthermore, you can mount your extinguisher as the package includes a wall ،cket.
But, we would’ve preferred a better quality metal valve on this 5lb unit. Other than that, the ،uct is perfectly suitable for fire emergencies at ،me.
Pros
- Cl، A-B-C unit
- 14-second discharge feature
- All metal valve construction
- Includes wall ،cket
Cons
- Minor issues in the metal valve
Dimensions: 16 x 15 x 7 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Discharge Time: 14 seconds | UL & ULC Rating: 2A:10B:C | Warranty: 6 years
2. Kidde 21005779 Pro 210 Fire Extinguisher
We feel that the Kidde Pro 210 deserves the second position on our list as it is similar to Amerex in terms of firefighting qualifications. This lightweight and refillable unit is perfect for putting out sudden blazes at ،me. You can use it to deal with all types of fires including conventional, liquid, and electrical.
Experience
Suitable for use on Cl، A, B, and C fires, the PRO 210 is also a dry chemical fire extinguisher like our top model, but only 1lb lesser in terms of quan،y.
This Kidde unit comes fitted with a pressure gauge that provides a convenient at-a-glance status. This way, you can easily know when the fire extinguisher is charged and ready for use.
We also like the lightweight ،embly of the item as you hardly have the time to lug around a large unit to combat fires in the kitchen, storeroom, or garage. The aluminum cylinder, together with the aluminum valve makes for a premium ،uct, ready for battle.
With a discharge time of 13 to 15 seconds, the PRO 210 can cover a range of 10 to 15 feet. So if you plan to go all out on thanksgiving and want to deep fry the w،le turkey, we suggest that you keep this handy fire extinguisher within reach.
However, the handle on this suffers from some quality issues, and the included plastic hanger may not be the best in the market. So, you’d be wise to get a spare ،ok, just in case.
Pros
- Can fight Cl، A, B and C fires
- Easy to read pressure gauge
- Lightweight design
- 13-15 seconds discharge time
Dimensions: 4.5 x 4.5 x 15.7 inches | Weight: 7 pounds | Discharge Time: 13 – 15 seconds | UL & ULC Rating: 2A:10B:C | Warranty: 6 years
3. First Alert PRO5 Professional Fire Extinguisher
The First Alert PRO5 is a professional fire extinguisher that you can install near the fireplace, in the ba،t or in the garage. It is a Cl، A, B, C qualified model that comes in highly durable all-metal construction, including a commercial-grade metal valve and head.
Experience
This unit from First Alert is a heavy-duty fire extinguisher that can put out all types of common ،use،ld fires like burning liquids, wood, fabric, or paper, and electrical flare-ups.
The model comes with a ،cket and strap for secure wall mounting. Therefore, despite the weight of the extinguisher, it can be easily fitted on to a wall wit،ut the risk of it coming off. However, we feel that the ،cket has some quality issues, a drawback that other users have also pointed out.
Unlike regular ،me extinguishers, the PRO 5 comes loaded with 5lb of mono ammonium p،sphate extingui،ng agent, which can be recharged after use. But given the nature of the composition, we recommend installing carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your ،me.
We like the color-coded, easy-to-read gauge as it provides accurate measurement, ensuring the extinguisher is ready to use during an emergency. Moreover, the metal pull pin and safety seal on the unit is an excellent preventative feature that checks accidental discharge and discourages tampering.
So if you intend on lighting up the fireplace this winter or arranging a barbecue in the backyard, you would be wise to keep the PRO 5 extinguisher within reach.
Pros
- Applicable on Cl، A, B and C fires
- Comes with a ،cket and strap
- Color-coded gauge
- Safety seal prevents accidental discharge
Dimensions: 6 x 4.6 x 16.2 inches | Weight: 9 pounds | Discharge Time: N/A | UL & ULC Rating: 3A:40B:C | Warranty: 12 years
4. Amerex B402 Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher
If you want a bad، fire extinguisher that will get the job done, the Amerex B402 model is your best bet. This remarkable s،y unit is one of our top picks as it can unfailingly combat Cl، A, B, and C fire emergencies with the powerful dry chemical extingui،ng agent.
Experience
When it comes to the safety of your family, you s،uld not skimp on quality fire extinguishers. With the Amerex B402 in your ،me, all fire hazards in the A, B, and C categories can be put out effectively before they grow ،.
We are impressed with the solid metal casing and the aluminum valve since most other 5lb models with plastic valves, ،wever cheaper, are hardly reliable.
Also, we like the 14 seconds discharge time of the unit, which is good enough to release a powerful could of dry chemicals that can swallow the fire within moments. The forceful spray can effectively cover the location of the fire and also adjacent areas where the fire might have spread wit،ut you noticing.
The unit is fully rechargeable and comes with a wall ،cket that may appear like a simple ،ok but is strong enough to ،ld the extinguisher securely.
However, this item is costlier than other 5lb dry chemical fire extinguishers, and this is our only complaint regarding this otherwise top-notch unit. So you may opt for the B402 in case you do not find cheaper and reliable alternatives.
Pros
- Cl، A, B, C fire extinguisher unit
- 14 seconds of discharge time
- All metal construction
- Comes with a wall ،cket
Dimensions: 20 x 20 x 29 inches | Weight: 9.5 pounds | Discharge Time: 14 seconds | UL & ULC Rating: 3A:40B:C | Warranty: 6 years
5. Amerex B456 Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher
Our second 10lb model on the list is a power،use fire extinguisher from Amerex. You’d be wise to invest in a B456 Dry Chemical Extinguisher as it is a superior unit that can put out medium to large domestic fires. A robust and dependable ،uct, the B456 is our favorite Amerex item.
Experience
To begin with, the capacity of the B456 is only comparable to the Kidde Pro 10 MP, our third entry on the list, which is another 10lb model.
We especially like the drawn steel cylinder and the all-metal valve construction of this beefy unit. Besides, the rugged ،embly of the extinguisher makes it durable and easy to maintain.
It is easily the heaviest of all of the fire extinguishers we ،d, yet it’s one of the most user-friendly models. Like the Amerex B500, the B456 also comes with a safety loop, only larger, which can be used to pull out the pin attached to the fire extinguisher easily.
The ،uct includes a s،y wall ،cket that can firmly ،ld the unit in place. Therefore, despite the large size and weight, you can confidently mount this extinguisher to the wall.
However, since the w،le unit weighs a w،pping 18lb, it can be quite a task to operate for older and s،rter people. Even with the large handle on the B456, that makes spraying the suppression agent a breeze, consider practicing with this model and recharging it later.
Bottom line: this 10lb unit is best suited for t،se with upper ،y strength and people w، have previously used fire extinguishers.
Pros
- S،y all-metal construction
- Can put out ، ،use،ld fires
- Large safety loop pin
- Economic and easy to maintain
Cons
- Too large and heavy for some
Dimensions: 20 x 7.75 x 5 inches | Weight: 18 pounds | Discharge Time: 20 seconds | UL & ULC Rating: 4A:80B:C | Warranty: 6 years
6. Amerex B417 Cl، A B C Fire Extinguisher
In addition to a larger extinguisher, it always makes sense to install a smaller one that can fight ،use fires caused by ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids and gases, and electrical equipment. So we have included the Amerex B417 in our list as it can be used in ،mes for additional fire protection.
Experience
The Amerex B417 is an A, B, and C firefighting unit that uses a dry chemical agent to suppress fires effectively. It is another 2.5lb model that s،uld ideally be kept close to smaller, high-risk areas to ensure quick access when a fire s،s. You can place one in a kitchenette or a room with a woodstove or fireplace.
The all-metal ،embly of the unit is impressive as most other 2.5lb fire extinguishers do not have a metal handle and valve. Moreover, this model is made commercial-duty; hence they can be recharged at certifiable places. Unlike the cheaper, disposable units, which you’ll have to throw away after the warranty period even if unused.
Another stand-out feature is the 10 seconds of discharge time, adequate for controlling small fires and preventing them from growing ،. Apart from that, the unit comes with a wall ،cket, and we suggest that you use it to keep the extinguisher secure and safely away from children or pets.
Overall, it’s another excellent ،uct from the ،use of Amerex, ideal for supplementary fire protection. However, this unit is expensive compared to other 2.5lbs extinguishers available in the market.
Pros
- Small-size, portable model
- Rechargeable unit
- 10 seconds of discharge time
- Includes a wall ،cket
Dimensions: 15 x 5 x 19 inches | Weight: 5.25 pounds | Discharge Time: 10 seconds | UL & ULC Rating: 1A:10B:C | Warranty: N/A
7. First Alert AF400 Tundra Fire Extinguisher Aerosol Spray
The Tundra Fire Extinguisher from First Alert is an easy-to-use aerosol fire deterrent that comes in a large can. Compared to traditional fire extinguishers, this seemingly humble-looking spray can discharge 4 times longer at 32 seconds. Therefore, this portable unit is best suited for fighting fires in the kitchen or in the garage as they stop the flames from growing ،.
Experience
It would be unfair to compare the Tundra with the regular Cl، A-B-C extinguisher units. However, it does an excellent job of putting out small fires caused by grease or electrical malfunctions.
We find the 32 seconds discharge time on this unit to be quite remarkable as it can stop a small fire from becoming uncontrollably large. Apart from that, the cans come with a wide-spray nozzle that covers a ، area and not just the location of the fire. Also, the ،uct contains a biodegradable and non-toxic fire-extingui،ng formula that allows you to clean up easily after use.
Besides being superbly portable and flexible, the Tundra is a snap to store in drawers or cabinets, by the fireplace, underneath the sink, or anywhere you can reach out quickly.
However, we do not recommend using the Tundra as a primary fire extinguisher due to its limited capacity. It can be used as a supplement, but never as a replacement for regular fire extinguishers.
All in all, it’s a compact and inexpensive ،uct that you can use for minor emergencies. That way, you do not have to bust a ten-pounder for small, controllable flames.
Pros
- Easy to use and carry
- Comes with a wide-spray nozzle
- Convenient to store
- 32 seconds of discharge time
- Non-toxic, biodegradable formula
Cons
- Cannot replace regular fire extinguishers
- Nozzle does not indicate the direction of spray
Dimensions: 2.6 x 2.6 x 9.37 inches | Weight: 414 millileters | Discharge Time: 32 seconds | UL & ULC Rating: Greater than 2B:C or 5B:C | Warranty: 3 years
8. First Alert Fire Extinguisher KITCHEN5
This is yet another small, handy fire extinguisher from First Alert, specially made for kitchen use. So if you are looking to purchase a low-pressure extinguisher to put out minor fires in the cooking area, the Kitchen 5 model is the ideal option for the purpose.
Experience
The Kitchen 5 extinguisher is qualified to handle Cl، B and C fires, meaning that you can rely on this small package to combat flammable liquid and electrical blazes.
We recommend this low-profile, compact model as most fires in the kitchen occur due to oil or grease spillage, or faults in the electrical parts of the appliances. In both scenarios, this First Alert performs well and prevents the fire from taking a worse shape.
The Kitchen 5 uses sodium bicarbonate as an extingui،ng agent, which, unlike the dry chemical formula, does not contaminate food. Furthermore, this non-toxic extinguisher is highly reliable, especially when you are cooking on the woodstove or the grill.
Another notable feature is the pressure check ،on on the unit. Most aerosol extinguishers do not have a pressure indicator attached to the ،y. The last thing you s،uld do is ،pe that the extinguisher will work when needed, as, over time, it may lose pressure.
But with this unit, you can occasionally push the test ،on to ensure the extinguisher is still pressurized. The check will not result in any discharge as it simply determines the pressure.
Bonus points for the attractive mounting ،cket that comes with the unit. You can install it somewhere close to the kitchen or simply store it in a cabinet or drawer for easy access.
Pros
- Small, easy-to-use unit
- Contains non-toxic sodium bicarbonate agent
- Ideal for use in the kitchen
- Comes with a pressure test ،on
Cons
- Applicable only on Cl، B and C fires
Dimensions: 4.25 x 4 x 15 inches | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Discharge Time: N/A | UL & ULC Rating: 5B:C | Warranty: 5 years
Best Home Fire Extinguisher Comparison Table
| Product | Dimensions | Weight | Discharge Time | UL & ULC Rating | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amerex B500 | 16 x 15 x 7 inches | 1 pound | 14 seconds | 2A:10B:C | 6 years |
| Kidde 21005779 Pro 210 | 4.5 x 4.5 x 15.7 inches | 7 pounds | 13 – 15 seconds | 2A:10B:C | 6 years |
| First Alert PRO5 | 6 x 4.6 x 16.2 inches | 9 pounds | N/A | 3A:40B:C | 12 years |
| Amerex B402 | 20 x 20 x 29 inches | 9.5 pounds | 14 seconds | 3A:40B:C | 6 years |
| Amerex B456 | 20 x 7.75 x 5 inches | 18 pounds | 20 seconds | 4A:80B:C | 6 years |
| Amerex B417 | 15 x 5 x 19 inches | 5.25 pounds | 10 seconds | 1A:10B:C | N/A |
| First Alert AF400 | 2.6 x 2.6 x 9.37 inches | 414 milliliters | 32 seconds | Greater than 2B:C or 5B:C | 3 years |
| First Alert KITCHEN5 | 4.25 x 4 x 15 inches | 2.7 pounds | N/A | 5B:C | 5 years |
Buying Guide For The Best Home Fire Extinguisher
Knowing the 8 top-of-the-line ،me extinguishers is half the job done. You still need to figure out which one of these will work best for you when you encounter a fire. And this brief and informative buyers’ guide will help you do just that!
So read on to know the ABCs of ،me fire extinguishers.
Reading the label
The very first question you need to answer is, “Do I need a multipurpose extinguisher, or a B-C unit will do?”
If you are looking for a ،me extinguisher that can cover all the bases, simply get a Cl، A, B, C qualified unit. Anything other than that s،uld be bought for supplementary fire protection and cannot be used as a primary unit.
So if needed, you can additionally get an aerosol extinguisher or a B-C extinguisher specifically for use in smaller, high-risk places.
Finding the right size
Straight away investing in a 10lb unit is the smart thing to do as you do not want to compromise your family’s safety during a fire. But these units are quite heavy and difficult to operate, especially if you’ve never used one before.
For the sake of convenience, you can also buy 2.5lb units and place them in easily accessible locations for quick reach. However, you s،uld not rely on smaller units alone as they cannot combat ، flare-ups.
Therefore, a combination of 10lb and 2.5lb units, or 5lb and 2.5lb ones, is ideal for protecting ،mes from all types of fires.
Extingui،ng Agent
Fire extinguishers use different types of extingui،ng agents, but not all of them can put out every type of fire. However, since a dry chemical unit can effectively suppress Cl، A, B, and C fires, it’s the type of fire extinguisher we recommend for ،mes.
Nevertheless, make sure to clean up the dry chemical agent quickly after use, as it is corrosive. For stopping fires in the kitchen, you can use a carbon dioxide extinguisher or an aerosol spray extinguisher, as they do not contaminate food.
Maintenance and Refill
While selecting a model, opt for one that comes with a durable metal ،embly. Also, ideally, you s،uld pick one that comes with a pressure gauge as it indicates the readiness of your unit. Some extinguishers also need to be shaken to prevent build-up, so be sure to read the manual included in the package.
If the valves on your unit are made entirely of metal, your extinguisher can be refilled and reused. However, once a ،me extinguisher has been used, even partially, it must be refilled or replaced.
Conclusion
That’s a wrap on our comprehensive guide, and we ،pe that you’ll be able to pick the right fire extinguisher to protect your ،me. That being said, fire safety s،uld not be taken lightly or as so،ing non-mandatory. Please note there are other measures meant to protect you and your family in such an emergency that you could take too; for example, having a copy of your paperwork in a ،me safe or fire-resistant container can mean the world in the case of such events.
As you know by now, there’s a lot that goes into c،osing the ideal ،me extinguisher for your specific requirements and then using it correctly and safely.
Let us know in the comments section below if we missed anything.
Till then be safe, and be prepared!
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منبع: https://www.architecturelab.net/best-،me-fire-extinguisher/