Best Fire Extinguishers Guide & Reviews of 2021

Flame protection is often overlooked, but this is actually one of the main problems for Americans. This is why having fire extinguishers all throughout the home is essential. If looking to invest in this type of safety, there are dozens of things to take into account, from kinds of devices to placement and maintenance. Before making any purchase, make sure to check out the best fire extinguishers of 2021.

Natalie Mitchell - Editorial Staff

Updated: April 20, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

The first step to take when reviewing fire extinguishers was to carry out research. The ones at the top of the list were the most mentioned by users online. Then, the next step was to identify the features that made the product the best fire extinguisher out there. And then we compared them against a criterion of 5 metrics, with a score from 0 to 10. The average score is below in the list.

  • Features

    0-10

    monitoring period, 24/7 alerts, disaster protection etc.

  • Support

    0-10

    telephone, email, chat, and other channels

  • Price

    0-10

    monthly fee, money-back, trial period

  • Ease of Use

    0-10

    installation, maintenance, service support

  • Trust Score

    0-10

    BBB.org and Trustpilot (positive, negative reviews)

Because we are experts in the quest for finding the best fire extinguisher in the market. And for that, we based ourselves on our expertise and the opinion of those who know about the field. We only took into real account reviews, no affiliate posts were considered.

1. First Alert Tundra Aerosol: Weightless and Portable

Total Score 9.8/10

First Alert Main
First Alert Free Shipping
Tundra Fire Extinguishing Spray
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$11.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-
Best for Industrial Kitchens

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This spray is one of the most compact fire extinguishers in the market. It is very light and portable, but some aspects of the user experience can improve. Such is the case of its trigger nozzle, which is not very easy to use. It has to be pressed hard to work. But when activated, it covers a wide area.

Its chemicals are not toxic and can be cleaned easily. And the best part is that it works on combustion type A, B, and C, and also even in type K, which makes it ideal for any type of kitchen.

Pros:

  • Works on types A, B, C, and K
  • Discharging time of 32 seconds
  • Light and portable
  • Non-toxic chemicals
  • Affordable pricing
  • Ideal for kitchens
  • Good reviews

Cons:

  • Only 3 years of warranty
  • Hard-to-use nozzle
  • Some leaks

It has one of the longest discharging times of the industry at 32 seconds. This is four times more than other home fire extinguishers, which means that it can fight flames longer. Its warranty is rather limited, at only 3 years.


2. First Alert Rechargeable: Stands the Pass of Time

Total Score 9.6/10

First Alert Main
First Alert Free Shipping
First Alert Rechargeable
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$19.97

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-
Best for Easy to Grab

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Fire Alert’s fire extinguisher is rated for A, B, and C combustions. Yet, not only is it effective against fires created thanks to wood or paper, but it also fights the ones caused by gasoline and oil too.

The company added a branded feature called SureGrip Trigger, which helps handle the device easily so that one can focus on the more pressing matters.

Pros:

  • Improved grip
  • UL and USCG certified
  • All-metal build
  • Water-proof label
  • Corrosion-resistant
  • Rechargeable
  • Works against A, B, and C types

Cons:

  • May arrive discharged
  • May be delivered with little pressure left
  • No return policy

This model is certified by UL, who vouches for its safety. Its pressure gauge has been improved to be always responsive. And thanks to its all-metal construction, this fire extinguisher will last for many years. It was even tested by the U.S. Coast Guards, and they deemed it suitable for marine use. It only has one extinguishing agent, mono ammonium phosphate. And it can be recharged by pros.


3. The Fireman Fire Extinguishing Spray: Use it Anywhere

Total Score 9.6/10

The Fireman Main
The Fireman Extinguishing Spray
The Fireman How It Work
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$21.99

Visit Website
Best for Industrial Use

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This portable aerosol is ideal for those who have no idea about how to operate a home fire extinguisher. The process has been simplified even more. And still, it has instructions on the back in case any doubt arises.

It is certified for A, B, C, and even K flames, which makes it one of the complete products in the market. It releases non-toxic chemicals that can be easily cleaned up afterward with just some soap and water.

Pros:

  • Compact
  • Easy to use
  • Non-toxic
  • Weighs only 1.5 lbs.
  • UL certified
  • Effective against type K
  • Eco-friendly

Cons:

  • Seals may fail
  • Sometimes leak
  • Not returnable

This fire extinguisher is super compact, being only 10 inches tall, so it can be stored practically anywhere. If it is in the kitchen, though, be careful to keep it away from food, since there have been some reports that it may leak.

It has been tested by the UL to certify that it works in all the aforementioned conditions. And it weighs only 1.5 pounds, which makes it one of the lightest solutions in the market.


4. Kidde Pro 210: A Top-Notch Solution

Total Score 9.4/10

Kidde Fire Safety Products
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$44.97

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Medium Places

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This fire extinguisher works on A, B, and C combustions. It releases multipurpose dry chemicals within a range of 10 to 15 feet with a pressure of 100 PSI to put out fires. It has a release of 13 to 15 seconds, and it can be recharged.

Its gauge clearly alerts if it is functional and whether it needs recharging or not. As a special feature, it is coated to prevent corrosion.

Pros:

  • Works against A, B, and C
  • Does not get rusty
  • Rechargeable
  • Aluminum building
  • UL certified
  • Pressure checker
  • 6-year warranty

Cons:

  • High price
  • Sometimes arrives discharged
  • Not the best for kitchens

The Kidde Pro 210 was tested and approved by UL to make sure that it complies with the required safety standards. It has an aluminum cylinder to ensure durability, and the same applies to the valve.

The fire extinguisher also allows checking how the pressure is holding up instantly. This model has a warranty of 6 years.


5. Amerex B417: A Sturdy Option

Total Score 9.4/10

Amerex Main
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$35.87

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Strong Users

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This fire extinguisher by Amerex stands out for its reduced size, which makes it perfect to fit small places with a high risk of catching flames, like a boat. It was tested by the UL and approved by the USCG, as long as it is mounted with a wall bracket.

It was designed to work on combustions A, B, or C. For this; it releases multi-purpose dry chemicals. Thanks to its discharge time of 10 seconds, it works incredibly fast for market standards.

Pros:

  • Fits almost anywhere
  • UL and USCG certified
  • Superfast 10-second discharge
  • Made with aluminum
  • Rechargeable
  • Warranty of 6 years
  • Strong build

Cons:

  • Rather hefty
  • Only comes with a wall-mount
  • Not the best for the elderly

This model can be refilled after being activated, but this should be done by a pro, not any user. It comes with a 6-year warranty. The Amerex B417 weighs 4.9 pounds, which is fine for most people, but could be hefty for the elderly or people with weak muscles. Its build is all aluminum, including the cylinder and the valve. It comes with a wall-mount only.


6. Kidde FA110: Anyone Can Lift It

Total Score 9.4/10

Kidde Fire Safety Products
Kidde Fire Extinguishers FA110
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$39.82

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for The Elderly

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This home fire extinguisher stands out because of how simple it is to use. It weighs only 2.5 pounds, which makes it easy to carry even for people with weak fingers or arthritis.

Its handle and operating lever were designed to make the item less likely to slip, even if the hands are oily or wet. Its gauge is also super easy to read, which makes it simple to know if the device is ready to be activated.

Pros:

  • Well-designed gauge
  • Lightweight
  • Easy-grip
  • Top-notch aluminum
  • Protection against rust, corrosion, and impacts
  • Approved by the US Coast Guard
  • UL certified

Cons:

  • It is not possible to buy only one unit
  • Plastic handles are not the best
  • Some negative reviews

All this is achieved thanks to its high-quality materials. Its cylinder is made out of aluminum, which makes light but durable. And its nylon handle has all types of tech that help it resist corrosion, rust, and strong impacts. Also, this item has a warranty of 6 years in case any problem arises.


7. First Alert 2.5 Pound: Lasts a Lifetime

Total Score 9.8/10

First Alert Main
First Alert Free Shipping
First Alert 2.5 Pound
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$29

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-
Best for Strength and Durability

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

First Alert’s fire extinguisher is among the lightest in the market. Its content weighs only 2.5 pounds, making a total of 5.1 pounds when considering the casing too. This makes it easy to handle, even for people with weak muscles. It releases its multi-purpose dry chemicals within a range of 10 feet. This is the industry average.

This home fire extinguisher has a warranty of 10 years, which is more than most other competitors.

Pros:

  • Lightweight constructions
  • Sturdy built
  • 10-year warranty
  • USCG approved
  • Bracket strap included
  • Protected against accidental discharge
  • Metal valve and trigger

Cons:

  • May arrive without much pressure
  • Warranty is not applied by the retailer
  • The plastic handle is flimsy

This product has a very strong build, designed to last for years. Its commercial-grade metal valve and trigger ensure that it does not break easily. It has also been approved by the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure its safety and high-quality.

A very nice feature that many will appreciate is that it has a metal pull pin with a safety seal to prevent accidental discharge. Within the box, there is also a bracket with a strap for easy mounting.


8. Amerex B500: The Standard Solution

Total Score 9.2/10

Amerex Main
Amerex Extinguishers B500
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$35.87

BBB Rating A+
Best for Standard homes

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This fire extinguisher by Amerex works on A, B, and C fires. Its only extinguishing agent is dry chemicals. So, it works not only on combustions produced by the most common sources, like wood or paper, but also on those started by flammable liquids and combustibles.

Its cylinder and valve are made out of metal, which makes it durable. Its discharge time of 14 seconds is well within the industry standard, so it can put out fires quite fast.

Pros:

  • Uses dry chemicals
  • Durable materials
  • Works on fires caused by substances
  • Strong build
  • Good discharge time
  • Ideal for small places
  • Easy to maintain

Cons:

  • Not the best for industries
  • Rather pricey
  • The tamper seal may arrive broken

The manufacturer takes pride in the fact that people can rely on this product thanks to its rugged build and strong materials. They recommend that this product be used in places such as offices, warehouses, and homes.

This model is ideal for this, thanks to how easy it is to service and maintain. There are other models that are better for industrial use, for example.


9. Amerex B402: Cover Fires in a Second

Total Score 9.4/10

Amerex Main
Amerex Extinguishers B402
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$35.87

BBB Rating A+
Best for Durable Build

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This fire extinguisher offers the right balance between reliability and manageability. It weighs 5 pounds, which means that most people should be able to handle it without major issues. But it still contains enough chemicals to put out any type of A, B, or C flames fast.

Just be careful because the release is so strong that it may create a mess and even cover the person using it.

Pros:

  • Steel case and aluminum valve
  • Rechargeable
  • Wall-bracket included
  • 14-second release
  • Sturdy build
  • Good weight for most
  • Multi-purpose use

Cons:

  • May be messy
  • Some problems with delivery
  • The wall bracket is just a hook

This home fire extinguisher is rechargeable, but this should be done by a professional. Its steel casing and aluminum valve makes it durable and sturdy. A wall bracket is included in the package to ensure that it is well hanged with the appropriate tools. Its release time is 14 seconds, which is the industry standard.

The only problem that may arise is that the content may be released while the product is being delivered, but this is not uncommon for other brands too.


10. Kidde 466204 Pro 10: Maintain It in a Jiff

Total Score 9.2/10

Kidde Fire Safety Products
Kidde Fire Extinguishers 46620420 Pro 10
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$75.72

BBB Rating A+
Best for Easy Maintenance

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

The Kidde Pro 10 was designed to work against combustion types A, B, or C, which is the standard for home fire extinguishers. It has a pressure gauge to help people see at a glance the status of the device and if it needs some maintenance.

Its casing is made out of steel, which was prepared to resist even the strongest of impacts. And the valve is all metal, which is what firefighters recommend.

Pros:

  • Easy-to-understand instructions
  • Clear pressure gauge
  • Steel casing
  • Impact-resistant
  • Metal valve
  • Safety pin included
  • Coated against corruption

Cons:

  • May arrive discharged
  • Safety pin could be better
  • Not eligible for return

Something many users will appreciate is that it has the user instructions on the front. They are explained clearly, and with a big font so that they can be read even during an emergency. In this way, people can follow steps to operate the home fire extinguisher easily.

It also includes a safety pin to avoid accidental releases. And it is coated with powder to protect against corrosion, the valve, the handle, and the lever. On top of this, this fire extinguisher was approved by the UL to certify its quality.


Best Fire Extinguishers of 2021 (Pricing & Features)

Provider Price BBB Rating Best for Weight in pounds Fire types Discharging time Warranty Extinguishing agent Corrosion-resistant The material of the handle
First Alert Tundra Extinguisher $11.99 A- Industrial kitchens 0.22 A, B, C, K 32 seconds 3 years Non-toxic chemicals No Plastic
First Alert Rechargeable $19.97 A- Easy to grab 4,5 A, B, C 10 seconds 10 years Mono ammonium phosphate No Metal
The Fireman Extinguishing $21.99 NR Industrial use 5,1 A, B, C, K 15 seconds 6 years Non-toxic chemicals No Plastic
Kidde Pro 210 $44.97 A+ Medium places 4,0 A, B, C 13-15 seconds 6 years Multipurpose dry chemicals Yes Aluminum
Amerex B417 $45.00 A+ Strong users 2,5 A, B, C 10 seconds 6 years Multipurpose dry chemicals No Aluminum
Kidde FA110 $39.82 A+ The elderly 7,32 A, B, C 14 seconds 6 years Multipurpose dry chemicals Yes Plastic
First Alert 2.5 Pound $29 A- Strength and durability 2,5 A, B, C 10 seconds 10 years Multipurpose dry chemicals No Metal
Amerex B500 $55.99 A+ Standard homes 5 A, B, C 14 seconds 6 years Dry chemicals No Metal
Amerex B402 $54.90 A+ Durable build 5 A, B, C 14 seconds 6 years Multipurpose dry chemicals No Steel
Kidde 466204 Pro 10 $75.72 A+ Easy maintenance 16 A, B, C 10 seconds 6 years Multipurpose dry chemicals Yes Steel

The ABCs of Extinguishers

Not all combustions are the same. Depending on what caused them, the chemicals necessary to extinguish them differ. This is why having the right type of extinguisher is essential. Otherwise, one might end up kindling the flames instead of putting them out.

These are the most common types people will find.

  • Class A: Caused by solid combustible materials, excepting metals. Some examples are wood, paper, rubber, plastics, and cloth.
  • Class B: Produced by flammable liquids, such as oil, paints, and gasoline.
  • Class C: Initiated due to electrical products, like outlets, tools, and appliances.
  • Class D: Metals that are likely to burn. These are usually found in factories.
  • Class K: Caused by elements generally found in commercial kitchens, like grease, cooking oils, animal and vegetable fats, etc.

Ideally, every home should have an ABC extinguisher available, since that is the type of flames they are most likely to encounter, especially electrical ones. Yet, having a K model in the kitchen too would be smart.

Extinguisher Placement

Once one has picked and bought the item that fits his needs, he may be tempted to put it right next to our oven. But this is not the smartest location to choose. How does one choose the best place? There are some aspects to consider.

Still, they should be close enough in case of combustion. So, the smart thing would be to identify all possible sources and put a fire extinguisher within 5 to 8 feet from it. In this way, it should be easily accessible if needed, but it still is at a good distance from the heat.

Types of Extinguishing Agents

There are many different types of extinguishing agents. They will vary depending on the class being used since not all types of flames can be put out with the same chemicals. So, the contents of a class A device will be different from those of class B.

The most common ones are the following.

  • Dry chemical: for classes A, B, and C.
  • Water mist: for classes A and C.
  • Carbon dioxide: for classes B and C.
  • Water and foam: only for class A.
  • Clean agent: usually only B and C, but sometimes also A according to the type and size.

Dry chemicals work on pretty much any type of combustion, so they are the most commonly used. They are the ones that most people recommend to be used for homes, for example.

Yet, bear in mind that it is necessary to clean right after applying them since these agents are corrosive. Especially so, if the incident took place in a kitchen.

How to Use an Extinguisher

Home fire extinguishers are very easy to use. Yet, there are some steps to follow. And being in front of a flame is not the best time to practice. Many devices have the instructions on the front. But there is no time to read them during an emergency. It is also a good idea to encourage other people at home to practice this.

  1. Pull the pin
  2. Aim at the base of the flames
  3. Squeeze the trigger
  4. Sweep the spray from one side to the other

Maintenance

Most safety organizations recommend having at least one fire extinguisher per floor, and if possible, one in every room. And most importantly, they should be checked every year.

To make sure that they are working as they should bear in mind the following aspects.

  • Test the pressure: make sure that the needle of the pressure gauge is in the green zone. If it is in the red one, that is an alert to pay attention to. It means that the unit has to be replaced or taken to a professional for maintenance.
  • See if there is damage: first of all, check if the tamper seal and pin are intact. Then, take a look at the cylinder to see if there are any dents, leaks, corrosion, or anything similar.
  • Shake: This is essential for fire extinguishers with dry chemicals. In this way, the dust does not settle.
  • Take it to a pro: every few years, an expert should test the pressure of the device.
  • Refill it: Every used fire extinguisher needs to be refilled. Even if not all of the content was released. If just a little chemical came out, then the product needs to be recharged.
  • Throw them away: when fire extinguishers are not usable anymore, make sure to discard them.

Make sure to do this every year. It does not take much time, and with just a few minutes, one should be able to rest easy, knowing that he is protected against potential combustions of any type, including electrical ones.

Factors to Consider before Buying an Extinguisher

Though they may seem the same, there are some key areas in which fire extinguishers differ. And these are things that one should bear in mind before making the purchase. Otherwise, one might end up buying something that is not useful for the room where it is going to be used.

To know what to look for, read on.

  1. Distance: To know which range to get, it is important to bear in mind the size of the home or kitchen where the device is going to be used. Most of them work in an area of 12 to 18 feet. So, if the room is much larger than this, then it may be wise to have more than one product.
  2. Refill: Most extinguishers are designed to be used one time and not more. There are some models that can be recharged. But only pros should do it. There are no DIY options. If the item cannot be refilled with a chemical, then it should not be used again, even if it was triggered by mistake.
  3. Size and Weight: fire extinguishers will weigh as much as the content inside them. In general, they do not go over 5 pounds. They also tend to be reduced in size. Otherwise, they would be quite difficult to use in homes. This aspect is also important if the fire extinguisher is going to be mounted on a wall.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How Does an Extinguisher Work?

    A fire extinguisher has a large aerosol can inside with two chemicals in it. One of them is the chemical designed to put out the flames, like water mist.

    The other substance is a propellant. It is pressurized so that it forces the chemicals to come out when someone presses the handle.

    In this way, they come out with enough strength to cover a relatively large area. This system can be used with practically any type of chemical.

  • How Much Should I Spend on an Extinguisher?

    It will all depend on the type of device.

    Here are some approximate estimates:

    • Non-rechargeable A, B, or C device: between $15 and $20.
    • Multi-use product: $35 to $75.
    • Products for specific areas, like the car or kitchen, single-use: $10 to $20.
    • Industrial extinguishers: $300 to $800.

  • How Often Should I Inspect My Extinguisher?

    There are three main forms of inspections that should be carried out regularly.

    • Visual inspection: it should be done every month. It consists of checking that the extinguisher is where it should be.
    • Maintenance: this has to be done every year. This one is more thorough than the previous one, and it has to be done by a pro.
    • Internal: this is done every 6 or 12 years, depending on the model. They are done by pros, who empty the can to see that everything works well on the inside.

  • How Far Should I Stand Away From the Fire While Using the Extinguisher?

    Most fire extinguishers have a range of 8 to 12 feet. So, in case of fire, it is best to take a step back and be at least 6 to 8 feet away from it. Once it starts to extinguish, it is possible to get closer to boost the effect.

  • What’s Most Effective on Class B and C Fires?

    The best fire extinguisher agents on B and C are dry chemicals. They do not allow the flames to reignite after being used. They work by interrupting the chemical reaction that started the combustion. There is also a multipurpose type that works on type A too.

The Process Step-By-Step

Getting the best fire extinguisher for home or office should be a priority. To make sure that the device is the most suitable one for the needs of the user, there are some key aspects to bear in mind, like potential flame types and weight. Once the decision has been made, make sure to place and maintain the device, as explained here.


Editorial Staff

Natalie contributes her expertise by her professional writing and years working in editorial offices and with online publishers. Natalie is a true leader who has exceptional skills to be a team player. She excels at conducting research on robberies and thefts using open police data and is inspired by her husband’s work as a detective. With such interests, she continues to write excellent articles about security systems in general and Securing Home in particular.


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