CO2 Fire Extinguishers (Carbon Dioxide)
Designed for Class B and C fires, carbon dioxide fire extinguishers can be found in a number of buildings and businesses across many industries. With a CO2 extinguisher on hand, Class B fires involving flammable liquids (including gas and oil) can be suppressed.
In addition to Class B fires, CO2 fire extinguishers are the right option for fighting electrical fires or anything that is plugged in (Class C fires). Because carbon dioxide is a clean, non-contaminating, and odorless gas, it is non-toxic and leaves behind no dry-chemical residue. There is less clean up involved and it does not damage unburned property. They should not be used on fires involving solid materials, including paper, wood or fabric (Class A fires) as the pressurized contents can cause the burning material to disperse and the fire could spread.
When used correctly, carbon dioxide displaces oxygen in the fuel that’s causing the fire, ultimately causing the flames to go out. Special caution does need to be taken when using CO2 fire extinguishers as the carbon dioxide is very cold when it is expelled and can be harmful if it comes in contact with your skin. You will often see carbon dioxide extinguishers in:
- Medical facilities
- Mechanic shops
- Factories
- Anywhere with a lot of electrical equipment
When you browse our selection of CO2 fire extinguishers, you will find options from Ansul and Strike First Corporation, in sizes ranging from 5 LB all the way up to a 100LB wheeled unit. Order fire extinguishers online or contact us so we can ensure you choose the right option to meet your needs.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CO2 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
CO2 fire extinguishers will be shipped same day if ordered before 12:00 PM EST for all in stock items. Orders that are not in stock may need to meet a minimum order quantity, as well as possibly require a minimum of 10 business days to be shipped directly to your address. We offer Dock-to-Dock and Dock-to-Door delivery options - Dock-to-Door delivery options include Tailgate Required, Appointment Required, and Inside Delivery Required. If you have any questions about tracking your order, reach out with your order number to info@herbertwilliams.com.
Carbon Dioxide fire extinguishers are more expensive than multi-purpose ABC fire extinguishers, due to construction and the extinguishing agent used.They are available in small handheld units, such as a 5lb CO2 extinguisher and go up to the most costly larger 100lbs tanks which are used in industrial applications.
Carbon Dioxide fire extinguishers are designed to suppress class B and C fires. Class B fires involve flammable liquids, such as gasoline, grease and oils and Class C fires are electrical based. CO2 extinguishers are the optimal choice for Class C fires as they do not leave behind any messy residue.
CO2 Fire extinguishers should not be used on class A fires that involve solid materials (paper, wood, or fabric) because the pressure from the extinguisher may disperse the flaming material, causing the fire to spread. CO2 extinguishers should also not be used on Class D or K fires.
Most CO2 fire extinguishers are refillable, unless labelled as non-rechargeable. Refilling your CO2 should done soon after discharging the contents as it’s difficult to know how much agent you have remaining in the cylinder in the event of another emergency. Refilling should always be done by a ULC Certified fire equipment service provider.
Although both ABC powder extinguishers CO2 fire extinguishers are used to suppress Class B and C fires, there is one large difference between the two – the type of residue left after discharging. CO2 extinguishers do not leave behind any residue after discharge, making them a popular choice for areas that are difficult to clean up, contain sensitive materials (such as archives), or areas that contain a large amount of electronics. Meanwhile, powder extinguishers leave behind a messy residue that can be tedious and costly to clean up and can possibly damage equipment not otherwise affected by the fire.
The size of your CO2 fire extinguisher should be based on what you intend to extinguish. A small area, like that of a single room, will not need a large CO2 fire extinguisher; a 5 lb to 10 lb extinguisher would be sufficient. However, applications that are more industrial, such as in hospitals, factories, or other manufacturing settings, will require a larger extinguisher, possibly even a wheeled 100 lb extinguisher if the area is large enough. We carry a variety of CO2 fire extinguisher sizes.
