Are you looking for the best fire extinguishers for home? We’ve rounded up the criteria for the best fire extinguishers and narrowed down the best options, so you don’t have to.
If you want to develop or upgrade fire safety in your home, you should never skimp on a good and reliable home fire extinguisher.
Did you know that according to the National Fire Protection Association, 26% of reported fires occurred in homes (2015-2019)? Additionally, the US Fire Administration USFA reported that 2% of residential building fires occurred in garages. The same report says that the main causes of garage fires are electrical malfunction, unintentional carelessness, and open flame.
Suffice it to say your entire home should be equipped with the best fire extinguishers to help you combat small fires and buy the opportunity to evacuate family members and minimize property damage until the firemen from your local fire department arrive.
You should not overlook placing fire extinguishers in your garage, too, as there are several fire hazards present in this area. So if you want to know how to find the best fire extinguisher for your garage, then you should keep on reading.
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How to Choose Home Fire Extinguishers
Before you go shopping for the best fire extinguishers, you first need to know what makes a good fire extinguisher. Remember, fire extinguishers vary in classes of fires they extinguish, size, firefighting material, and weight, among other features.
We understand that the options can be overwhelming, so we tried to make it easier for you. Here are the most important factors to remember when shopping for fire extinguishers for your garage.
Type of Fire Extinguisher
The first thing you need to figure out when shopping for fire extinguishers is to know what type of fires they kill. There are five classes of fire, and they are determined based on their causes:
- Class A fires are caused by ordinary combustibles like paper, fabric, wood, trash, etc.
- Class B fires are caused by flammable liquids like petrol, diesel, kerosene, antifreeze, etc.
- Class C fires or electrical fires are caused by energized electrical equipment.
- Class D fires are caused by flammable metals like potassium, sodium, and magnesium.
- Class K Fires are known as kitchen fires, and they are caused by combustible oils and cooking grease.
Many fire departments would recommend getting an ABC extinguisher for the garage since most of the flammable materials are within the class A, B, and C classifications.
However, if you are working in your garage and dealing with combustible metals, you should also get a Class D fire extinguisher.
It is UL-rated
UL rating means that the fire extinguisher has undergone a rigorous testing process to ensure optimum performance, safety, and suitability in extinguishing certain classes of fires. Simply put, a UL rating ensures that your chosen fire extinguisher is up to standards.
Design and construction
You need a dependable fire extinguisher in your garage and, ideally, at all levels of your home. Regardless of where you intend to put a home fire extinguisher, you should always choose one that’s built and designed with top-notch quality. With that said, opt for an all-metal body instead of ones that have plastic valves and flimsy construction. Fire extinguishers made with aluminum are great options, too, as they are just as durable but also lightweight.
Weight
It is also important to consider the weight of a fire extinguisher. If you are petite or not as physically fit to handle a bigger fire extinguisher, then you should go for something more manageable. Most fire experts recommend at least a 5-pound fire extinguisher for putting out small fires. But if you can go big, find a heavy-duty extinguisher that everyone (or at least every adult in the family) can easily use. Just keep in mind that bigger fire extinguishers tend to cost more.
Serviceability
Serviceable and refillable fire extinguishers tend to be more economical in the long run as you typically only need to pay half for a refill instead of the full price of buying a new one each time. Disposable extinguishers sure are a lot cheaper, but they are good for one-time use only. Refillable fire extinguishers can be serviced by your local fire department so that it is always full and ready to use.
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Best Fire Extinguishers for Home and Garage
We know that looking for the best fire extinguishers can be overwhelming, so we narrowed down the best options for residential fire extinguishers and compared them extensively.
1. Amerex B456
Source: Amerex
The Amerex B456 is an ABC extinguisher. This Amerex extinguisher is great to keep in the garage or the workshop for several reasons.
First, it came from the reputable Amerex brand. It is a multi-purpose fire extinguisher tested to combat fires caused by ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical fires.
It uses dry chemical as an extinguishing agent, insulating class A fires and smothering the chemical reaction in class B fires. Since it does not conduct electricity, the Amerex B456 is also excellent at putting out electrical fires.
The construction of this home fire extinguisher is quite outstanding, sporting all metal valve construction, a heavy-duty steel cylinder, and a large loop pull pin. This fire extinguisher discharges in 20 seconds at a range of 15-21 feet.
This 10-pound fire extinguisher is great to use in the garage or workshop but also in other parts of the home, except in the kitchen where cooking oil fires occur, and class K extinguishers are more appropriate.
Pros
- Durable construction with all metal-valve (anodized aluminum).
- It is packed with 10 pounds of extinguishing agent to combat small fires.
- UL-listed and complies with NFPA standards.
- Class ABC extinguisher extinguishes three classes of fires commonly found in homes and garages.
- This is a rechargeable extinguisher that can be serviced by fire departments.
Cons
- It can be quite heavy for some people to handle.
2. First Alert PRO5
Source: Amazon
The First Alert Pro5 is a heavy-duty rechargeable extinguisher rated for class B and C fires. Manufactured by one of the leading brands in home safety, this home fire extinguisher proves to be reliable fire-fighting equipment that combats electrical fires and fires caused by flammable liquids.
There are many things to like about the First Alert Pro5. First, its commercial-grade metal valve and head plus overall metal construction ensure that this fire extinguisher is durable and built to last.
This UL-certified fire extinguisher comes with five pounds of extinguishing agent, ideal for use in all settings, including offices, small businesses, homes, and garages. It has its own wall bracket, so you can mount it easily at any desired location.
It comes with an easy-to-read pressure gauge, its metal pull pin comes with a safety pin to prevent accidental discharge. We love that it is rechargeable, so you can have it refilled at a lesser price than having to purchase new disposable extinguishers.
As far as household fire extinguishers go, the First Alert Pro5 ticks all the boxes for a durable, reliable, and decent size fire extinguisher.
Pros
- This is a UL-certified ABC extinguisher (it can kill an electrical fire, common fires, and fires caused by flammable liquids).
- All metal construction makes it durable.
- Comes with its own mounting mechanism.
- Generous 12-year warranty.
- It can be recharged after use.
- Good enough to handle a small fire.
Cons
- It may not have enough extinguishing agent to kill large fires.
- The wall bracket does not seem to be very sturdy.
3. Kidde Pro 210 Fire Extinguisher
Source: Amazon
Coming from Kidde’s reliable line for fire extinguishers, the Kidde Pro 210 has become a well-known residential fire extinguisher thanks to its solid features.
First, the Pro 210 is a multi-purpose fire extinguisher. As one of Kidde’s best ABC fire extinguishers, it can kill almost all types of home fires.
We love that it comes with an accessible pressure gauge telling you if the fire extinguisher is full and ready to use. Its dry chemical extinguishing material weighs five pounds, making it easy for almost all members of the family to use in case a fire breaks out.
The build and construction of Pro 210 are also quite impressive. Its body is made with aluminum, making it corrosion-resistant and durable. It is also one of the most powerful light weight fire extinguishers as it has a discharge range of 10-15 feet and discharges in 13-15 seconds, allowing you to quickly respond to a small fire.
This is one of the most competitively-priced rechargeable fire extinguishers and easily one of the best contenders for home and garage fire extinguishers.
Pros
- It is a UL-rated A, B, and C fire extinguisher
- Comes with an easy-to-read pressure gauge
- Lightweight and easy to use by most adults
- Contains 4 pounds of extinguishing agent
- The aluminum cylinder and valve assembly make it durable and corrosion-resistant
- Rechargeable
- 6-year warranty
Cons
- Some customers complain of the safety pin going off during transit, resulting in an accidental discharge.
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4. Amerex B500
Source: Amazon
Amerex B500 Fire Extinguisher proves to be another choice for extinguishing home fires. ABC fire extinguishers like this one from Amerex are dependable in killing A, B, and C fires in homes and garages. And coming from the Amerex brand, which has built a solid reputation in the fire safety industry, you know you are equipped when faced with small fires.
So the Amerex B500 is an ABC extinguisher that kills fires caused by common combustibles like paper and fabric, flammable liquids and gasses, as well as energized electrical appliances. The B500 is built with quality in mind, noting its all-metal valve construction.
Different fire extinguishers have different discharge times and ranges. The B500 can kill fire 12-18 feet away and discharges its extinguishing agent in 14 seconds.
This is a rechargeable residential extinguisher, so you can easily have it refilled at the nearest fire department or private refilling companies.
Pros
- UL-rated for ABC fires.
- All metal construction lends it more durability and sturdy.
- It can be recharged or serviced after use.
- Comes with its own wall bracket for easy mounting.
- Backed with a 6 years warranty.
Cons
- Some customers say the pin holding the seal came off during shipping.
5. First Alert Home2Pro
Source: Amazon
When it comes to commercial extinguishers, the First Alert Home2Pro is always a top choice. It also works just as perfectly as a home or garage fire extinguisher.
The Home2Pro is packed with 10 pounds of mono ammonium phosphate as its extinguishing agent housed in a durable corrosion-resistant metal body.
While some customers complain of other fire extinguishers that discharge accidentally during transport, the Home2Pro comes with a safety pin to protect it from such circumstances. You can be sure that your fire extinguisher is full and packed, always ready to use.
It also comes with waterproof and chemical-resistant four-step instructions, code compliant mounting system, and a generous 12-year warranty.
Pros
- It is UL-rated for ABC fires.
- It is of quality build and construction, suitable for both commercial and residential use.
- Made of commercial-grade metal valve and durable steel.
- It is rechargeable.
- Comes with a 12-year warranty.
Cons
- ten-pounder ABC extinguishers tend to be heavy to use by some people.
- Some customers complain of incomplete parts for the mounting system.
7. Amerex B402
Source: Amerex
The Amerex B402 is a rugged yet economical option for a garage extinguisher. UL-rated to fight class A B and fires, this fire extinguisher is multi-purpose and can be used in locations that have ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and gasses, as well as overloaded electrical equipment.
We love that it has a great discharge range of 12-18 feet, which means you can stand a considerable distance from the base of the fire and still extinguish it. It also has a discharge time of 14 seconds.
This is one of the best rechargeable extinguishers you can find right now, thanks to its solid steel construction. As it is serviceable, you can easily bring it to nearby fire departments or refilling centers once you’ve emptied it out.
It comes with five pounds of ABC dry chemical extinguishing material, so it’s going to be somewhat lightweight compared to heavier fire extinguishers. Due to its dimensions, you can easily store this in a cupboard. But you can also mount it with a wall bracket for easier access.
Pros
- UL-rated for ABC fires.
- Comes with 5 lbs of dry chemical extinguishing material.
- Easily fits in a cupboard or can be wall-mounted.
- Great fire extinguisher for inside the house and garage.
- Longer discharge time compared to other fire extinguishers.
- It is easier to lift and use compared to heavier fire extinguishers.
- Comes with a 6-year warranty.
Cons
- 5 lbs. of extinguishing material may not be enough depending on the size of your garage or the flammable materials inside it.
8. First Alert FE10GO
Source: First Alert
The First Alert FE10GO is a bc extinguisher that’s ideal for placing in the garage. B and C fires are two of the most common types of fires that are likely to occur in a garage. These are caused by flammable liquids and electrical fires.
The First Alert FE10GO is a durable fire extinguisher fashioned out of durable steel. It comes with a steel-made metal and a safety pull pin to prevent unintentional discharges. It also has its own mounting system so you can place the fire extinguisher in strategic locations.
Like all of First Alert’s fire extinguishers, this one also comes with an easy-to-read code, so you know exactly know how to use it. It also has a color-coded gauge that tells you how much juice it has and if it’s time for a recharge.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use.
- Durable and sturdy construction.
- UL-rated to extinguish class b and c fires.
Cons
- It is not designed to kill class k fires and grease fires
9. Kidde Pro 10 466204 Fire Extinguisher
Source: Walmart
Kidde makes some of the best ABC extinguishers in the market, and this PRO 10 466204 model is one of them. This is quite a powerful fire extinguisher, and you can use it in both residential and commercial settings.
The PRO 10 466204 contains 10 pounds of dry chemical extinguishing agent that can effectively put out class A fires (common combustibles), class B fires (flammable liquids and gasses), and class C fires (electrical fires).
Construction-wise, the PRO 10 466204 is made with robust impact-resistant metal, ensuring that its lever, handle, and metal valve are functional at all types. There’s also an easy-to-pull safety pin, allowing for easier use in case of fires.
This fire extinguisher is approved by the US Coast Guard and backed with a 6-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Solid all-metal construction promises durability and sturdiness.
- Packed with 10 pounds of extinguishing material to combat class ABC fires.
- Comes with easy-to-follow instructions and an at-a-glance pressure gauge.
- Backed with a six-year warranty.
Cons
- It might be too heavy for some people.
- Does not extinguish a small grease fire or a class k fire.
10. Amerex B441 Fire Extinguisher
Source: Amazon
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty fire extinguisher that you can rely on in fighting common fires, then the Amerex B441 Fire Extinguisher is worth considering.
This rechargeable ABC fire extinguisher combats fires caused by common combustibles like paper and wood and fires caused by flammable liquids and energized electrical appliances. You can pretty much use this in your garage, where you keep flammable things in storage.
However, if you are working with flammable metals, you should choose a fire extinguisher that can extinguish class D fires.
One thing to note about the Amerex B441 is that the manufacturer did not skimp on its construction. Apart from its all-metal valve design, it also comes with a brass valve, stainless steel handle, and lever. The design and materials tell us that this is one durable, reliable fire extinguisher.
As for its performance, the Amerex B441 has a discharge range of 15-21 feet and a discharge time of 20 seconds. It is serviceable, so it proves to be an economical option when pitted against a disposable extinguisher.
Pros
- Super solid design and construction.
- UL-rated to fight ABC fires.
- Contains 10 pounds of dry chemical extinguishing agent.
- Comes with a large loop pull pin for easy operation.
Cons
- Includes a wall bracket, but the metal wall hanger needs to be purchased separately.
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The Verdict
There are so many options for rechargeable extinguishers in the market nowadays, and choosing one for your home and garage can be a difficult decision.
All of the fire extinguishers mentioned above are all top contenders. They are nearly head to head, considering how they are all UL-rated and come from the best brands in fire safety.
But if we have to bet our money on that one fire extinguisher, we believe that the Amerex B456 deserves our vote. We particularly like how this fire extinguisher can douse almost all sorts of fires that may take place in a home, garage, and commercial venues (well, except for class K and class D fires, that is).
We also like that it has 10 pounds of extinguishing agent housed in a durable, solid cylinder. And since it is serviceable, you can keep getting it recharged after each use and never have to pay full price again.
We never wish to find out a fire extinguisher’s effectiveness through a real-life scenario, but having them around pays for your safety and peace of mind.
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