Types of Home Fire Extinguishers & What You Need

By the Mercury Team

Fire extinguishers are a key part of home safety, and having the right one nearby can mean the difference between a small, controlled incident and a major disaster. However, not all extinguishers are the same; there are different types designed for specific fire classes. At Mercury Insurance, we want every homeowner to be prepared for fire risks and to make fire safety part of their home protection plan.

Why Do Homeowners Need Fire Extinguishers?

Even a small fire can spread in less than 30 seconds, but quickly jumping into action with the right home fire extinguisher for the job can help prevent major damage to your home and belongings. Insurance and fire safety go hand in hand, and if you take preparedness seriously, you’re more likely to prevent devastating losses and costly claims.

What Are the Main Types of Fire Extinguishers?

The best fire extinguishers for home use match the different classes of fires.

• Class A extinguishers are ideal for wood, paper, and trash.
• Class B units help extinguish fires due to flammable liquids like gasoline, oil, and paint.
• Class C fire extinguishers cover electrical fires from wiring or equipment.
• Class D fire extinguishers are made for combustible metals; these fire extinguishers are rarely needed in homes.
• Class K extinguishers provide coverage for kitchen grease fires.

Which Fire Extinguishers Are Best for Homes?

When choosing the type, think about where fires are most likely to start. Kitchens, garages, and living rooms with fireplaces should be your top priorities. How many fire extinguishers do you need? Most homeowners will benefit from two types of fire extinguishers in the home:

• Multipurpose ABC extinguishers cover the most common household fire risks, including combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical fires.
• Class K extinguishers are important for kitchens where grease fires can’t be safely put out with water.

How Many Fire Extinguishers Should You Have?

For full protection, it’s recommended to keep at least one fire extinguisher in your home on every level. You also want to store a unit near the kitchen, garage, and fireplace or woodstove. Just make sure you place your extinguishers where they can be grabbed quickly in an emergency.

How Do You Maintain and Check Fire Extinguishers?

When properly maintained, fire extinguishers will work for years to come. Be sure to inspect the pressure gauge monthly to ensure it’s in the safe zone. Should you use a home fire extinguisher, immediately replace or recharge it, even if it’s only partially used. Check each extinguisher for the recommended replacement timeline, which typically runs from five to 15 years, depending on the type and manufacturer.

Do Fire Extinguishers Affect Home Insurance?

Having safety devices like smoke alarms and fire extinguishers in the household can sometimes help homeowners qualify for insurance discounts. More importantly, preventing fire damage lowers the chance of filing a costly claim. At Mercury Insurance, we support proactive fire safety measures that keep your family and your home safe.

How Mercury Insurance Can Help With Fire Prevention

At Mercury, we don’t just provide coverage. We also offer ongoing guidance on fire prevention and safety tips for new construction and older homes. From protecting your property with a solid homeowners policy to offering resources that help reduce risks, Mercury Insurance supports families in preparing for emergencies and recovering from fire damage if it occurs.

The right fire extinguisher makes your home safer, but buying one is just the first step. Choose the right type, place it in the right spot, and keep it maintained. Fire safety and insurance protection work best together. If you’re reviewing your coverage, reach out to Mercury Insurance for support in keeping your home and family safe. Contact us for a fast, free quote.