Fire extinguishers are essentially your first line of defense in case a fire occurs in your home. And to minimize damage and injury, you must have the right one within reach.
However, before you purchase a unit, you should be aware of the different classifications of fire and the kind of extinguisher you need to put them out with. Home extinguishers are usually Class 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 classified units, ideal for use in the kitchen and other smaller areas.
Now, how do you select the best home extinguisher that is reliable and can protect your family during an emergency? Well, we have shortlisted 8 high-performance options for you. And we’ve also included a guide to help you choose better.
So, let’s begin, shall we?
Best Home Fire Extinguishers
Here is the list of the 8 best home fire extinguishers that you can use to protect your home and family from the dangers of fire.
1. Amerex B500 Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher – Best for Home Emergencies
The Amerex B500 extinguisher is the ultimate bad boy that can effectively put out Class A, B, and C fires. It is ideal for use at home 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 home emergencies.
Experience
If you intend on making your home 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 homes. 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 home 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 household blazes, at about 15 inches tall. Furthermore, you can mount your extinguisher as the package includes a wall bracket.
But, we would’ve preferred a better quality metal valve on this 5lb unit. Other than that, the product is perfectly suitable for fire emergencies at home.
- Class A-B-C unit
- 14-second discharge feature
- All metal valve construction
- Includes wall bracket
- Minor issues in the metal valve
2. Kidde 21005779 Pro 210 Fire Extinguisher – Best for Lightweight Use
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 home. You can use it to deal with all types of fires including conventional, liquid, and electrical.
Experience
Suitable for use on Class 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 quantity.
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 assembly 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 product, 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 whole 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 hook, just in case.
- Can fight Class A, B and C fires
- Easy to read pressure gauge
- Lightweight design
- 13-15 seconds discharge time
- Poor quality handle
3. First Alert PRO5 Professional Fire Extinguisher – Best for Heavy-Duty Needs
The First Alert PRO5 is a professional fire extinguisher that you can install near the fireplace, in the basement or in the garage. It is a Class 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 household fires like burning liquids, wood, fabric, or paper, and electrical flare-ups.
The model comes with a bracket and strap for secure wall mounting. Therefore, despite the weight of the extinguisher, it can be easily fitted on to a wall without the risk of it coming off. However, we feel that the bracket has some quality issues, a drawback that other users have also pointed out.
Unlike regular home extinguishers, the PRO 5 comes loaded with 5lb of mono ammonium phosphate extinguishing 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 home.
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.
- Applicable on Class A, B and C fires
- Comes with a bracket and strap
- Color-coded gauge
- Safety seal prevents accidental discharge
- Flaws in the bracket
4. Amerex B402 Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher
If you want a badass fire extinguisher that will get the job done, the Amerex B402 model is your best bet. This remarkable sturdy unit is one of our top picks as it can unfailingly combat Class A, B, and C fire emergencies with the powerful dry chemical extinguishing agent.
Experience
When it comes to the safety of your family, you should not skimp on quality fire extinguishers. With the Amerex B402 in your home, all fire hazards in the A, B, and C categories can be put out effectively before they grow bigger.
We are impressed with the solid metal casing and the aluminum valve since most other 5lb models with plastic valves, however 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 without you noticing.
The unit is fully rechargeable and comes with a wall bracket that may appear like a simple hook but is strong enough to hold 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.
- Class A, B, C fire extinguisher unit
- 14 seconds of discharge time
- All metal construction
- Comes with a wall bracket
- Expensive model
5. Amerex B456 Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher
Our second 10lb model on the list is a powerhouse 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 product, 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 assembly of the extinguisher makes it durable and easy to maintain.
It is easily the heaviest of all of the fire extinguishers we tested, 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 product includes a sturdy wall bracket that can firmly hold the unit in place. Therefore, despite the large size and weight, you can confidently mount this extinguisher to the wall.
However, since the whole unit weighs a whopping 18lb, it can be quite a task to operate for older and shorter 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 those with upper body strength and people who have previously used fire extinguishers.
- Sturdy all-metal construction
- Can put out bigger household fires
- Large safety loop pin
- Economic and easy to maintain
- Too large and heavy for some
6. Amerex B417 Class A B C Fire Extinguisher
In addition to a larger extinguisher, it always makes sense to install a smaller one that can fight house 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 homes for additional fire protection.
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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 should ideally be kept close to smaller, high-risk areas to ensure quick access when a fire starts. You can place one in a kitchenette or a room with a wood stove or fireplace.
The all-metal assembly 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 bigger. Apart from that, the unit comes with a wall bracket, and we suggest that you use it to keep the extinguisher secure and safely away from children or pets.
Overall, it’s another excellent product from the house of Amerex, ideal for supplementary fire protection. However, this unit is expensive compared to other 2.5lbs extinguishers available in the market.
- Small-size, portable model
- Rechargeable unit
- 10 seconds of discharge time
- Includes a wall bracket
- Expensive item
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 bigger.
Experience
It would be unfair to compare the Tundra with the regular Class 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 bigger area and not just the location of the fire. Also, the product contains a biodegradable and non-toxic fire-extinguishing 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 product that you can use for minor emergencies. That way, you do not have to bust a ten-pounder for small, controllable flames.
- Easy to use and carry
- Comes with a wide-spray nozzle
- Convenient to store
- 32 seconds of discharge time
- Non-toxic, biodegradable formula
- Cannot replace regular fire extinguishers
- Nozzle does not indicate the direction of spray
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 Class 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 extinguishing 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 button on the unit. Most aerosol extinguishers do not have a pressure indicator attached to the body. The last thing you should do is hope that the extinguisher will work when needed, as, over time, it may lose pressure.
But with this unit, you can occasionally push the test button 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 bracket 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.
- Small, easy-to-use unit
- Contains non-toxic sodium bicarbonate agent
- Ideal for use in the kitchen
- Comes with a pressure test button
- Applicable only on Class B and C fires
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 home 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 home 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 home extinguisher that can cover all the bases, simply get a Class A, B, C qualified unit. Anything other than that should 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 should not rely on smaller units alone as they cannot combat bigger flare-ups.
Therefore, a combination of 10lb and 2.5lb units, or 5lb and 2.5lb ones, is ideal for protecting homes from all types of fires.
Extinguishing Agent
Fire extinguishers use different types of extinguishing agents, but not all of them can put out every type of fire. However, since a dry chemical unit can effectively suppress Class A, B, and C fires, it’s the type of fire extinguisher we recommend for homes.
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 assembly. Also, ideally, you should 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 home extinguisher has been used, even partially, it must be refilled or replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best types of fire extinguishers for home use?
The best types of fire extinguishers for home use are Class ABC extinguishers, which can be used on fires caused by ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment.
How do I choose the right size fire extinguisher for my home?
You should choose a fire extinguisher that is appropriate for the size of the area you are trying to protect. A 5-pound fire extinguisher is usually sufficient for most rooms in a home.
Where should I store my fire extinguisher?
Fire extinguishers should be stored in a visible, easy-to-reach location that is away from heat sources and potential fire hazards.
When should I replace my fire extinguisher?
Fire extinguishers should be replaced every 5-10 years, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
They should also be replaced if they have been used or if the pressure gauge indicates that the extinguisher is no longer fully charged.
Conclusion
As we reach the end of our comprehensive review of the best home fire extinguishers, it’s time to make the crucial decision of which one to choose for your home. From the above 8 best home fire extinguishers, here are the top three expert recommendations:
The Amerex B500 Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher is an ideal option for home emergencies, offering a reliable, economical, and long-lasting solution that can effectively combat Class A, B, and C fires.
If you’re seeking a lightweight yet capable extinguisher, the Kidde 21005779 Pro 210 Fire Extinguisher is a good option for keeping your home safe from various fire hazards.
For those with more heavy-duty needs, the First Alert PRO5 Professional Fire Extinguisher is the right choice, providing durable all-metal construction and fighting Class A, B, and C fires with ease.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs, the size of your home, and the potential fire hazards present. You can’t put a price on safety, so investing in a reliable and effective fire extinguisher is essential in ensuring your home remains a secure and protected environment.
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